Author: Shravani

  • Side Hustles You Can Start with Just a Laptop

    Side Hustles You Can Start with Just a Laptop

    A laptop and internet connection are all you need to start earning today. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or looking for extra income, here are proven laptop-only side hustles with low startup costs and high flexibility.

    1. Freelance Writing or Copywriting

    Freelance writing is still one of the easiest side hustles to pursue, with opportunities to write blogs, product descriptions, or email copy for clients around the world. Pay rates vary widely, with some writers charging $60–$100+ per project, and all you need to get started is some writing ability and access to websites like Upwork or ProBlogger.

    2. Virtual Assistant

    As a virtual assistant, you assist busy clients with things like emails, calendars, or social media posts, and there are tons of websites like Belay or Time Etc, which will help you find work quickly. All you need is organization skills, a laptop, and you can get started.

    3. Online Tutoring or Coaching

    If you’re knowledgeable in a topic such as math, languages, or even soft skills, online tutoring is a great option. Websites like Tutor.com and VIPKid allow you to teach from the comfort of your own home on your own schedule. Coaching people on anything from fitness to finances can also be profitable.

    4. Graphic Design & Content Creation

    Are you an artsy type? Freelance graphic designers can create logos, social media posts, or marketing pieces with tools like Canva or Illustrator for clients you can find on Behance or 99designs.

    5. Social Media Management

    Small businesses typically want to have a social media presence and generate buzz for their business, but they also don’t have the time. If you can write social media posts, schedule posts (using Buffer or Hootsuite), and help them manage the social media process, you can easily make some side cash from social media management.

    6. Dropshipping & Print-on-Demand

    E-commerce made easy. With print-on-demand or dropshipping, you sell products online without managing inventory. Platforms like Shopify and Printful let you design and sell goods, with shipping handled for you.

    7. Affiliate Marketing & Blogging

    Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commission on other individuals’ products by promoting them. Having a blog, or YouTube channel, or using social media will help you get started. The cost to get set up is low and can provide passive income.

    8. Online Courses or Digital Products

    If you have a skill that can be taught, you could package it into an online course or digital product to earn passive income. Websites like Udemy, Gumroad, and Etsy will make it easy for you to get started. After you create the product, it can begin makingარტLooks like I’m running out of tokens. Once created, your content can earn money for years.

    9. Freelance Video Editing

    If you can cut and stitch video together, you can do pretty well with the video editing side hustle. There are many tools (like InVideo) that allow almost anyone with a laptop to create professional-looking video content. You can find work on Fiverr or Upwork.

    10. Proofreading & Transcription

    Have a good eye for detail? Proofreading and transcription are side gigs you can start today. Check out Rev, TranscribeMe, or Upwork for daily opportunities to work on. Pay differs based on the project, but you’ll typically earn anywhere from $20 to $50/hour depending on complexity.

    Why These Hustles Work

    • Low startup cost: No need for capital beyond your laptop.
    • Flexible hours: Perfect for working around studies, a job, or family.
    • Skill-based growth: You build valuable digital and creative skills along the way.

    Get Started Today

    Choose the hustle that aligns with your expertise or passion. Create a small portfolio or write a sample. Get an account on Upwork, Fiverr, or Etsy and submit your first proposal. With a little perseverance and effective use of tools, your laptop can turn into a reliable source of additional income.

    Kickstart your freelance journey with a standout Salahkart resume. Highlight your new side hustle skills with a professional resume that impresses clients and employers alike.

  • LinkedIn Optimization Before Interviews: A Checklist

    LinkedIn Optimization Before Interviews: A Checklist

    Your resume may get you the interview, but your LinkedIn profile often seals the deal. Recruiters check your LinkedIn before interviews to learn more about you. A polished profile creates a strong first impression. Here is a checklist to help you optimize your LinkedIn before your next interview.

    1. Update Your Profile Picture

    Your profile picture – this is the first thing that people see. Using a professional headshot is key. Your picture must be clear and the background should be simple. No group pictures of you with friends or casual selfies. A great picture will add credibility to your profile. And, people will feel comfortable reaching out to you.

    2. Craft a Strong Headline

    Your headline should be more than your job title. You can use your headline as a way of conveying your skills or what you hope to achieve and/or the type of career you want, or the type of work that interests you. Instead of just “Marketing Executive,” try “Marketing Executive | Digital Strategy | Brand Growth.” Using the latter as your headline, not only makes your profile keyword-friendly, but it helps recruiting professionals.

    3. Refresh Your Summary

    The About section is a narrative. You want to keep it short, simple, and professional. You can talk about your professional goals, achievements, and what sets you apart from others. You also want to use clear and simple words, and focus on what makes you unique. Finally, you will want to add a call to action. Something like “open to marketing opportunities,”.

    4. Highlight Key Experiences

    Revise your Experience section and add any recent roles and achievements. With each role, you should express what you accomplished in action words. Focus on measurable results. “Led a campaign which drove 20% increase of sales within three months” is an example. Recruiters/companies want to know what you drove in impact versus just what responsibilities you had.

    5. Showcase Skills and Endorsements

    Be sure to add skills that are relevant to your profile. Once again, you will want to utilize skills related to the job role for which you are interviewing. Find colleagues to endorse your top skills. Having endorsements from others adds credibility to your profile and is social proof of your skills.

    6. Add Recommendations

    Recommendations from managers, peers, or clients provide credibility to your profile. Ask for brief, specific recommendations that comment on your work ethic, problem-solving or leadership skills. Having a few strong ones in your profile can help set you apart from other candidates.

    7. Clean Up Your Activity

    Recruiters often look at your activity and it is best to delete all unprofessional posts and/or comments. Simply engaging with content within your industry, sharing articles with thoughtful posts, or commenting on trending topics, will show that you are active, up to speed, and taken seriously in your industry.

    8. Customize Your URL

    A personalized LinkedIn URL looks professional and is easy to share. Edit your LinkedIn link to include your name. For example: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith. Add it to your resume and email signature.

    9. Turn on “Open to Work” (Smartly)

    Use the “Open to Work” feature wisely. You can choose to make it visible only to recruiters. This signals your interest without broadcasting it to your entire network.

    10. Research and Follow Companies

    Prior to your interview, be sure to follow the company on LinkedIn and engage with their most recent posts. Not only does this show genuine interest, you may also gain useful insights to mention during your interview.

    Final Thoughts

    Your LinkedIn profile is often your digital handshake. A well-optimized profile builds confidence and positions you as a strong candidate. Use this checklist to polish your LinkedIn before your next interview.

    A little effort today can make a big difference tomorrow. Update your LinkedIn now, and walk into your interview with confidence.

    Need help crafting a recruiter-friendly resume and LinkedIn profile? Try Salahkart’s easy resume builder today and stand out in your next interview.

  • Transferable Skills That Make You Job-Ready in Any Industry

    Transferable Skills That Make You Job-Ready in Any Industry

    When you apply for a job, employers look for more than just technical knowledge. They want to see if you have the skills to work with others and solve problems. These are known as transferable skills. They are valuable because they can be used in many different industries and roles. Whether you are in tech, finance, marketing, or healthcare, transferable skills help you get hired.

    What Are Transferable Skills?

    Transferable skills are abilities you carry from one role to another. They aren’t tied to a specific job or industry. For instance, skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving are useful whether you are a software engineer, teacher, or business analyst. These skills provide flexibility. They also make it easier to change careers since employers appreciate them everywhere.

    Why Are Transferable Skills Important?

    Employers understand that technical tools change quickly, but core transferable skills stay the same. If you are skilled in communication, teamwork, or leadership, you can adjust to new environments rapidly. For recent graduates, transferable skills help close the gap when you lack years of experience. They demonstrate that you are capable of learning and contributing.

    Top Transferable Skills Employers Search For

    Communication Skills:

    Clear communication is essential in every role. The ability to explain ideas, write well, and listen actively makes you a valuable team member. Employers recognize this in interviews and group projects.

    Teamwork and Collaboration:

    No one works alone. Employers seek people who can collaborate with diverse teams and respect different viewpoints. Good teamwork leads to better results and a positive workplace culture.

    Problem-Solving:

    Every industry faces challenges. Employers look for candidates who can think critically and find solutions. Problem-solving shows creativity, adaptability, and initiative.

    Time Management:

    Meeting deadlines is crucial in any job. Strong time management skills demonstrate that you can balance tasks and work efficiently without losing focus.

    Leadership:

    Leadership isn’t just about managing teams; it’s also about taking ownership and guiding projects. Even as a newcomer, showing leadership in internships or college activities can help you stand out.

    Adaptability: Industries change rapidly. Adaptability means you can learn new tools, manage change, and stay productive. It shows resilience, which employers highly value.

    Digital Literacy: Today, every industry relies on digital tools. Basic knowledge of productivity apps, data tools, or communication platforms indicates that you can keep up with modern workplaces.

    How to Highlight Transferable Skills

    Employers want to know you have these skills, but they also want to see examples. You can demonstrate transferable skills through:

    Your Resume: Focus on achievements rather than tasks. For example, “Led a 5-member team project that reduced costs by 15%.”

    Interviews:Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain how you applied these skills.

    LinkedIn and Online Profiles: Share projects, certificates, or blogs that illustrate your skills.

    Your degree provides knowledge, but transferable skills make you employable anywhere. They show that you can work with others and deliver results. The stronger these skills are, the more confident employers will feel about hiring you. Do not wait to develop them. Begin practicing communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in your everyday student or work life. These skills will benefit you no matter where your career takes you.

    Ready to showcase your transferable skills in a professional way? Use Salahkart’s AI-powered resume builder to highlight your strengths and make your resume stand out across industries.

  • Career Red Flags to Avoid in Your First Job

    Career Red Flags to Avoid in Your First Job

    Getting your first job is a thrilling landmark. But while you are busy learning and accumulating experience, it is equally essential to identify warning signs that can be detrimental to your development. Career red flags are indicators that a workplace is not where you want to be. Catching them early can prevent you from stress and time wastage.

    Lack of Clear Role and Responsibilities

    One of the first red flags is when a company does not define your role clearly. If you are expected to handle unrelated tasks every day without guidance, it may mean the company lacks structure. This can affect your learning and make it hard to build expertise.

    Poor Work-Life Balance

    If long hours of work are accepted as standard and no respect is given to personal time, it indicates a poor work-life balance. Over a period of time, it can lead to burnout. A good workplace respects boundaries and promotes productivity during working hours, not excessive overtime.

    High Employee Turnover

    When employees tend to leave the firm too often, it indicates deeper issues. Perhaps because of low job satisfaction, poor management, or toxic culture. Request information about average employee tenure during the interview. If most individuals remain for less than a year, that’s a red flag.

    Building a career stack from the beginning is important. Follow our guide to know how.

    Lack of Opportunities to Grow

    Your initial job should be a place where you can learn and develop. Without training programs, mentorship, or opportunities to enhance your skills, you could feel stagnant. A quality company invests in employee development and maps out career paths.

    Toxic Leadership and Culture

    Observe how managers treat employees during interviews or internships. If there is visible disrespect, constant pressure, or lack of communication, it is a red flag. A toxic culture drains motivation and can make you question your abilities.

    Unfair Pay and Delayed Salaries

    The other warning sign is when the pay is less than industry standards or payments are late. Your initial job should appreciate your work reasonably. If your money promises are not kept, it indicates a lack of professionalism and stability.

    Unrealistic Expectations

    If a company expects the freshers to work like old employees without training, it is an indication of poor management. Unrealistic expectations can damage your confidence and learning process.

    Your initial employment establishes the groundwork for your professional life. Do not disregard these warning signs in the thrill of being offered a job. Seek clarity, equity, respect, and development. If you observe several red flags, it is advisable to seek other, superior opportunities.

    At Salahkart, you can build a strong resume that highlights your skills and helps you land jobs in workplaces that value you. Start building your future with confidence today.

  • Common HR Questions and How to Personalize Your Answers

    Common HR Questions and How to Personalize Your Answers

    The HR session is usually the last phase before you are employed. Most candidates mess this up because they provide generic responses. HR personnel don’t merely want to verify your competencies. They need to establish whether you suit the organizational culture and whether your personality complements the job. The secret is to respond truthfully but in a manner that showcases your positives.

    Here are some common HR interview questions and how to personalize your answers.

    1. Tell Me About Yourself

    This is the most common HR question. Many students and job seekers answer with only education details. But HR wants to know your story.

    Personalize it by:

    • Emphasizing 2–3 skills that align with the job.
    • Showing how you can add value.

    Example: “My specialty is data analysis and converting it into strategies. During my internship, I employed Excel dashboards to monitor campaigns, and it enhanced response time. I think I can apply the same concentration to this position.”

    2. Why Should We Hire You?

    Most people repeat what is in their resume. HR already knows your qualifications. They want to see confidence.

    Personalize it by:

    • Highlighting 2–3 skills that match the job.
    • Showing how you can add value.

    Example: “My strength is analyzing data and turning it into strategies. At my internship, I used Excel dashboards to track campaigns, which improved response time. I believe I can bring the same focus to this role.”

    3. What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?

    Generic answers like “I am hardworking” or “I work too much” do not impress HR.

    Personalize it by:

    • Choosing strengths with examples.
    • Choosing a weakness and showing how you are improving.

    Example: “One of my strengths is problem-solving. During a project, our team faced a resource issue, and I suggested an alternative approach that saved time. A weakness I am working on is public speaking, so I’ve started attending workshops to improve.”

    Don’t forget to work ony our soft skills for interviews. Read our blog to know what to do.

    4. Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

    HR asks this to see if you have goals. Saying “I don’t know” is a red flag.

    Personalize it by:

    • Linking your goals with the company’s growth.
    • Showing a learning mindset.

    Example: “In five years, I see myself leading projects and mentoring juniors. I want to grow in this company and contribute to larger campaigns.”

    5. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?

    This is where many candidates lose points. Saying “No questions” makes you look uninterested.

    Personalize it by asking about:

    • Growth opportunities in the company.
    • Company culture.
    • Learning and development programs.

    Example: “What are some skills your top performers in this role usually have? I’d love to learn from them.”

    Final Tips for HR Interviews

    • Always research the company before the interview.
    • Use real examples instead of memorized lines.
    • Keep your answers short but clear.
    • Be confident, but not arrogant.

    HR interviews aren’t trick questions. They’re about you and how you fit. Personalizing your responses makes you unique among hundreds of job seekers. Practice with me, and you’ll be able to take every HR question and spin it as a way to sell your tale.

    CTA

    Want to impress recruiters with your resume before you even get to the HR round? Try Salahkart’s AI-powered resume builder and create a professional resume in minutes.

  • Personal Branding for Students: Tools to Start Today

    Personal Branding for Students: Tools to Start Today

    Grades do not do the trick anymore in today’s generation. Employers, universities, and even recruiters nowadays seek more than grades. They want to see your character, abilities, and how you represent yourself. That’s where personal branding for students takes the stage.

    Personal branding is about how you showcase your skills, values, and uniqueness to the world. It helps you build credibility and gives you a strong edge in your career journey. And the best part is—you can start today with simple tools.

    Why Personal Branding Matters for Students

    Think of personal branding as your story. It shows who you are, what you care about, and what makes you different. A strong brand helps you:

    • Get internships faster.
    • Build connections with professionals.
    • Gain confidence in interviews.
    • Attract opportunities even before you graduate.

    When you brand yourself right, people remember you for your strengths, not just your degree.

    Tools to Build Your Personal Brand

    1. LinkedIn

    This is the strongest site for students. Build a LinkedIn profile with a professional picture, title, and description. Post your projects, internships, and accomplishments. Network with alumni and recruiters.

    2. Canva

    Good design puts your resume, presentations, and posts in the spotlight. Canva has simple templates for resumes, portfolios, and social media graphics. You don’t have to be a designer to make items professional-looking.

    3. Personal Website (Wix or WordPress)

    Having a personal website is like having your online personality for work. You can showcase your resume and prjects in one place. Even a single-page site with your name and accomplishments makes an excellent impression.

    4. GitHub or Behance (for Tech & Creative Students)

    If you are a coder, use GitHub to demonstrate projects. If you are a designer, photographer, or artist, use Behance. Hiring managers like to see applied work rather than theory.

    5. Medium or Substack

    Writing establishes credibility. Blog your learnings, views, or studies. It indicates you are able to think and articulate.

    6. Networking Tools (Slack, Discord, LinkedIn Groups)

    Join your niche online communities. Engage in forum discussions, exchange resources, and pose questions. Networking is what grades can’t do.

    Tips to Make It Work

    Creating a brand requires continuity. Here’s a start:

    • Share frequently on LinkedIn, no matter how small.
    • Have the same picture and description on all platforms to maintain consistency.
    • Emphasize your strengths in your resume and social profiles.
    • Continuously update your profiles as you acquire new skills.

    Even 30 minutes a week on your personal brand can create long-term value.

    Don’t forget to work on your skills while building your personal brand. Check out our list of must do Coursera courses today.

    The Future Belongs to Students Who Brand Themselves

    In the past, students only needed good marks to land jobs. Today, recruiters expect more. They want to know who you are as a person, how you think, and what you can bring to the table.

    Personal branding for students is not about showing off. It is about telling your story with confidence. With tools like LinkedIn, Canva, and personal websites, it has never been easier. Start today, and your future self will thank you.

    Ready to build your personal brand? Use Salahkart’s resume builder to create a professional resume in minutes. Pair it with LinkedIn and a personal website to make your brand unforgettable.

  • Should You Build a Personal Website Along with a Resume?

    Should You Build a Personal Website Along with a Resume?

    If you’re job hunting, your resume is essential. But adding a personal website can make an even stronger impression. A personal site gives you more control and brings your professional story to life.

    Why a Personal Website Makes a Difference

    A resume is limited by format and length. On the other hand, a personal website lets you show your work in detail, share real examples, and express your personality authentically. Forbes calls it a space where you can dig deeper into your achievements and experience .

    Know which soft skills to build for your personal brand!

    Many job seekers use a digital portfolio site to present their résumé alongside additional information. This includes testimonials, projects, creative samples, and more .

    Build Your Own Online Presence

    When someone Googles your name, your website can offer a polished, updated introduction—on your terms, not from social media or outdated profiles. It lets you shape your image, showcase results, and leave a memorable impression.

    Feedback from Real Users

    One job seeker shared on Reddit how their personal website sealed the deal. A hiring manager saw their site, reviewed detailed projects, and skipped technical rounds entirely. It all began with a link on their resume.

    Still, personal websites must be meaningful—not just for the sake of having one. They work best when they showcase skills, back them up with work samples, and reflect your own brand.

    Who Should Consider a Personal Website?

    Fields where visual or detailed work matters—like design, writing, marketing, or portfolios—benefit most from websites.

    Other professionals can still benefit. A well-written site lets recruiters see personal narrative, thought process, and value beyond bullet points.

    Smart Website Content Ideas

    A good personal website can include:

    • A clean resume page with dynamic download options
    • A Projects or Portfolio section featuring work (.pdfs, visuals, code, etc.)
    • An engaging About Me page—share your backstory, values, interests
    • A Blog or Insights section to show domain knowledge or ongoing learning
    • Links to testimonials, social profiles, or media mentions

    Ensure your site reflects your voice and purpose—not just empty text. The Muse recommends visual elements like logos or professional photos to bring it to life.

    Avoid Common Pitfalls

    Simply hosting your resume online won’t cut it. Your site must offer fresh content and prove your identity—so it draws attention, not gets passed over, says industry experts.

    Final Thoughts

    A personal website isn’t a replacement—it’s a powerful complement to your resume. It shows who you are, not just what you’ve done. It boosts your reach, controls your narrative, and turns hiring managers into long-t

    Want to create a personal website that enhances your resume and showcases your story? With Salahkart, you can integrate your resume into a sleek online profile. Start today and present your best—on paper and online.

  • Career Planning Models: Ikigai, SWOT, T‑Model Explained

    Career Planning Models: Ikigai, SWOT, T‑Model Explained

    Selecting the appropriate career path is daunting. Career planning models such as Ikigai, SWOT, and the T‑Model make informed, well-balanced choices easier. They streamline your thinking. They enable you to align purpose, strength, and growth potential.

    Let’s look at each model in an easy-to-understand way. Then, how you can use them together to discover a career that matches your values and abilities.

    Ikigai: Find Your Purpose and Passion

    Ikigai is a Japanese term that translates as “reason for being.” It will lead you to discover where four things overlap: what you love, what you are talented at, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for. Picture four overlapping circles. The spot where they intersect is your Ikigai.

    This model helps you choose work that is fulfilling. It balances your skills, your passions, and what matters to society. You use it when you want long-term satisfaction, not just income.

    SWOT Analysis: Map Your Strengths and Risks

    SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. It’s a classic tool used in business planning and for personal career decisions. Here’s how it works:

    You list your internal strengths and weaknesses. Then, external opportunities and threats. Strengths may include experience or skills. Weaknesses may be missing knowledge. Opportunities could be industry trends. Threats may be strong competition.

    By laying out these four areas, SWOT helps you spot your advantages and challenges. You can then plan realistic actions to build on strengths and manage threats.

    T‑Model: Build Depth and Breadth

    The T‑Model is a visual way to view your skills. It features a letter “T.” The vertical bar represents deep expertise in one area. The horizontal bar shows broad skills across many areas. You combine depth in one domain with general competence in others.

    This balance is powerful. Employers value deep knowledge combined with versatility. You build value by deepening your specialty and expanding your related skills.

    How to Use These Models Together

    Start with Ikigai to understand your core motivation. Ask yourself: what you enjoy, what you excel at, and what others need. From this, identify one or two career paths.

    Next, run a personal SWOT for those paths. Map your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This helps you set realistic goals and spot places to grow.

    Finally, use the T‑Model. Identify your deepest skill area—maybe design or writing. Then list related skills—like communication or analytics. Aim to become T-shaped: deep in one domain and strong across others.

    Read more about campus and off campus placements

    Example in Practice

    Imagine a person passionate about sustainable design. They use Ikigai and see that they love eco-friendly design, they are good at product design, and they can be paid for sustainable products.

    Then they run SWOT. Their strengths: design skills and portfolio. Weakness: limited business knowledge. Opportunity: demand for sustainable products. Threat: competition in design roles.

    Using T‑Model, they deepen their core skill in sustainable materials design. They also build skills in user research, project management, and basic marketing. This makes them well‑rounded and hireable.

    Why This Approach Works

    Ikigai helps you align your purpose and job fit. SWOT gives a real-world view of your readiness. The T‑Model ensures you have both depth and adaptability. Combined, these models guide meaningful career growth.

    These tools support planning that is both purpose-driven and market-relevant. You focus on what truly fits you. And you build skills that hiring teams want.

    Final Thoughts

    Career planning doesn’t have to be confusing. Models like Ikigai, SWOT, and the T‑Model give clarity. They guide you in matching your passion, strengths, and market needs. Use them step by step to build a roadmap that aligns who you are with where you want to go.

    Need help applying these career planning tools? Use Salahkart to create your career story. Build resumes aligned with your Ikigai and T‑Model strengths. Make your story clear, focused, and purposeful. Start crafting a career that fits both heart and skills.

  • Top 7 Soft Skills Interviewers Want You to Demonstrate

    Top 7 Soft Skills Interviewers Want You to Demonstrate

    When you sit for an interview, your technical skills matter. But your soft skills often decide the outcome. Interviewers now value qualities like adaptability, communication, and emotional intelligence more than ever. Here are the top seven soft skills they look for—and how to show them clearly.

    1. Communication

    Clear speaking heads all lists of must-have interview skills. Employers desire individuals who are confident in speaking and good listeners. During an interview, respond with brief, coherent sentences when answering questions. Have good eye contact and a warm tone. This is evidence that you are able to express thoughts and establish rapport.

    2. Teamwork and Collaboration

    Few jobs happen solo. Employers seek candidates who can work well with others. Talk about campaigns or class projects where you coordinated tasks and helped the team succeed. Use “we” when describing outcomes. This shows you fit in team environments.

    3. Problem‑Solving and Critical Thinking

    Interviewers often ask for stories about how you solved a challenge or made a decision under pressure. Instead of stating soft skills, describe a specific problem and your steps to fix it. Share results or lessons. That shows analytical thinking and smart Action.

    Wondering how you can write a resume summary that reflects you? Read our blog to know how to do it.

    4. Adaptability and Flexibility

    In 2025, workplaces change fast. Employers want people who can pivot quickly and embrace new tools or tasks. Mention times when you learned a new tool or adapted to plan changes. This skill signals a growth mindset and resilience.

    5. Emotional Intelligence

    Emotional intelligence is the ability to read and manage emotions in yourself and others. Employers desire this for conflict resolution, constructive feedback, and team building. Describe a situation where you received constructive feedback calmly or acknowledged an issue of a team member. This illustrates maturity and empathy.

    6. Resilience and Coachability

    Getting employed typically entails overcoming failure, criticism, or new habits. Coaching ability and resilience indicate that you can rebound and develop. Provide an instance when you requested criticism or altered after a failure. This is indicative of your capacity to develop and learn.

    7. Initiative and Ownership

    Interviewers admire candidates who take Action without being asked. Share times when you took up a leadership task or solved a problem independently. It might be organising a college event or helping a client early in your internship. This shows responsibility and drive.

    How to Demonstrate These Skills in an Interview

    Make use of the STAR method: state the Situation, describe the Task, state your Action, and state the Result. If questioned on teamwork or problem-solving, first set a context briefly, describe what you did, and finish with what you learned or improved. This technique is clear and effective.

    Why These Soft Skills Matter More in 2025

    AI and automation handle many technical tasks. This makes soft skills even more important. Employers now seek human traits that machines can’t replicate—like empathy, flexibility, and leadership. Candidates with both technical and soft skills are clearly preferred. Context from Business Insider notes that interpersonal skills outperform AI in real-world decision-making.

    Final Thoughts

    Interviewers look beyond degrees and technical knowledge. They want people who can communicate, collaborate, adapt, and lead. By sharing real examples and using action-based responses, you show soft skills in a way that stands out. These soft skills help you get an offer and succeed in any role.

    Want help showcasing your soft skills effectively on your resume or during interviews? Try Salahkart. Our resume builder gives prompts to highlight soft skills and offers interview prep guides so you can speak with confidence.

    Start building your smarter, skill-focused resume today.

  • How to Write a Resume Summary That Sells Your Story

    How to Write a Resume Summary That Sells Your Story

    A resume summary is the first thing a recruiter reads. It decides if they’ll keep reading. You have 3–4 lines to make your story matter. Done well, it can hook a recruiter in seconds. So, how do you write a resume summary that truly sells your story? Let’s break it down.

    What Is a Resume Summary?

    A resume summary is a short paragraph at the top of your resume. It highlights who you are, what you’ve done, and what value you bring. Think of it like a movie trailer—it sets the tone for the rest of your resume.

    This summary should reflect your strongest skills, experience, and goals. Most importantly, it should match what the job needs.

    Why It Matters

    Recruiters scan resumes. Often, in less than 10 seconds. A sharp summary makes your resume stand out. It helps them see right away that you’re a strong fit.

    Also, if your resume goes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), a well-written summary filled with the right keywords improves your chances of getting shortlisted.

    How to Start

    Start with your job title or your career identity. For example:

    “5+ years of digital growth experience. Marketing Manager.”

    Then, one or two most important skills or accomplishments. Then, a goal that aligns with the company’s requirements. For instance:

    “Adept at SEO and brand storytelling. Want to assist brands in increasing online visibility.”

    Keep It Short and Specific

    Avoid verbosity. Don’t include everything. Be concise about what is most important. Good summaries have 40-60 words. Use active, strong words. Each line must convey something significant.

    Rather than:

    “I am a hardworking and committed individual seeking employment.”

    Say:

    “Business graduate with practical sales internship background, competent in customer interaction and data analysis.”

    Notice the difference? The second one sounds concise, confident, and ready for work.

    Tailor It to the Job Description

    Your resume summary should change with each job. Read the job post carefully. Pick out the keywords they use. If they want “project management” or “client engagement,” and you have those skills, use the exact words in your summary.

    This shows you’re aligned with the role. It also helps pass ATS filters that scan for keywords.

    Show Results, Not Just Skills

    Include a number or a result. It adds weight. For example:

    “Directed a team of 4 interns to grow campus event reach by 30% via focused digital campaigns.”

    This informs the recruiter that you can achieve results, not merely that you’re “creative” or “motivated.”

    Use First-Person Without Using “I”

    You can talk about yourself, but skip the word “I.”

    Instead of:

    “I have worked in customer service and solved many problems.”

    Say:

    “Customer service associate with a track record of resolving 95% of complaints within 24 hours.”

    It keeps the tone professional and powerful.

    Example Resume Summaries

    For Freshers

    “Recent B.Com graduate with internship experience in digital marketing. Skilled in social media strategy and content writing. Eager to join a fast-paced team to grow brand visibility.”

    For Working Professionals

    “Sales Executive with 3+ years of B2B experience. Proven ability to exceed quarterly targets by 15%. Strong communication and client retention skills. Seeking to drive results in a growth-focused organisation.”

    For Career Switchers

    “Former educator transitioning into content strategy. Skilled in simplifying complex ideas, creating engaging learning material, and managing timelines. Excited to apply these strengths in a digital content role.”

    Final Tips

    Your resume summary is your elevator pitch. Write it last—after the rest of your resume. That way, you can pick the best highlights. Then polish it until every word adds value.

    Use simple language. Keep it confident and honest. Make it easy to read and hard to ignore.

    Want help writing a strong resume summary that gets you noticed? Use Salahkart—our innovative, free resume builder that guides you step-by-step. Create your best resume in minutes and land interviews faster.

    Let me know if you’d like this turned into an Instagram post, carousel, or a short LinkedIn video script!