9+ Best Typing Skills for a Resume (2024)


9+ Best Typing Skills for a Resume (2024)

Proficiency in keyboarding, typically quantified by phrases per minute (WPM) and accuracy, is a beneficial asset for a lot of job seekers. A robust means to rapidly and precisely enter information interprets to elevated productiveness in roles requiring intensive laptop use, akin to administrative assist, customer support, information entry, and software program growth. Demonstrating this proficiency can contain together with particular metrics, mentioning related software program expertise, or highlighting associated achievements, like finishing an authorized typing course.

Environment friendly information entry contributes considerably to office effectivity. Quicker enter permits for faster completion of duties, enabling workers to handle bigger workloads and meet deadlines successfully. Accuracy minimizes errors, lowering the necessity for corrections and revisions, thus bettering total high quality and saving time. Traditionally, robust keyboarding expertise had been primarily related to secretarial and clerical roles. Nevertheless, with the rising reliance on computer systems throughout varied industries, this ability has turn into extremely fascinating in lots of professions.

This dialogue will discover varied strategies for showcasing keyboarding proficiency successfully on a resume. Subjects lined embody quantify expertise, the place to put this info inside the doc, and different approaches for highlighting related talents when particular metrics are unavailable. Extra sections will tackle widespread errors to keep away from and supply examples of efficient shows.

1. Phrases Per Minute (WPM)

Phrases per minute (WPM) serves as a quantifiable metric for keyboarding velocity, an important side of typing expertise introduced on resumes. It offers employers with a concrete measure of proficiency, enabling direct comparisons between candidates and permitting for evaluation in opposition to job-specific necessities. Understanding the nuances of WPM and its efficient presentation is important for showcasing this beneficial ability.

  • Accuracy’s Position

    WPM alone offers an incomplete image. Excessive typing velocity coupled with low accuracy negates the advantages of fast enter. Resumes ought to at all times current WPM alongside accuracy percentages to display a balanced ability set. For instance, “70 WPM with 98% accuracy” conveys a considerably stronger message than “70 WPM” alone. Accuracy underscores the candidate’s means to supply high-quality work effectively.

  • Contextual Relevance

    The significance of WPM varies relying on the precise job necessities. Whereas important for information entry roles, it could maintain much less weight in positions requiring much less frequent typing. Candidates ought to tailor their resume presentation accordingly, emphasizing WPM when it aligns immediately with the goal position’s calls for. As an example, a knowledge entry clerk may prioritize WPM, whereas a challenge supervisor may de-emphasize it.

  • Measurement Strategies

    Varied on-line typing assessments and software program applications supply WPM assessments. Candidates ought to make the most of respected sources and guarantee constant testing methodologies to acquire dependable outcomes. Discrepancies between testing strategies can yield various WPM scores. Utilizing a constant, acknowledged platform strengthens the credibility of the introduced metric.

  • Past Numerical Values

    Whereas WPM offers a beneficial benchmark, qualitative descriptions can additional improve the presentation of typing expertise. Achievements akin to “Elevated information entry effectivity by 20%” or “Persistently maintained excessive accuracy charges throughout massive datasets” add depth and display sensible utility of expertise. These statements present context and illustrate tangible contributions.

Finally, the efficient presentation of WPM on a resume entails greater than merely stating a quantity. Context, accuracy, and demonstrable impression contribute to a complete image of a candidate’s typing proficiency, strengthening the general resume and rising the probability of securing an interview.

2. Accuracy Proportion

Accuracy proportion, a important element of typing expertise, represents the proportion of appropriately typed characters relative to the whole characters typed. On a resume, it enhances phrases per minute (WPM) by offering a measure of high quality alongside velocity. Whereas excessive WPM demonstrates fast enter, a low accuracy proportion signifies potential errors, negating the advantages of velocity. Understanding the importance of accuracy proportion and its efficient presentation on a resume is important for showcasing complete keyboarding proficiency.

  • Error Discount and Effectivity

    Excessive accuracy in typing minimizes errors, lowering the necessity for corrections and revisions. This immediately contributes to elevated effectivity, permitting for faster completion of duties and improved total productiveness. In information entry or transcription roles, accuracy is paramount, as even minor errors can have vital penalties. A resume highlighting a excessive accuracy proportion alerts a candidate’s dedication to producing high quality work effectively.

  • Professionalism and Consideration to Element

    Accuracy in typing displays professionalism and a spotlight to element. A candidate demonstrating excessive accuracy conveys a meticulous method to work, an attribute extremely valued throughout varied professions. In roles involving communication, akin to customer support or content material creation, correct typing ensures clear {and professional} correspondence, minimizing misinterpretations and enhancing credibility.

  • Balancing Pace and Accuracy

    Whereas velocity is essential, prioritizing accuracy over velocity typically proves extra useful in the long term. Placing a stability between the 2 is essential. A resume showcasing an inexpensive WPM mixed with a excessive accuracy proportion demonstrates a candidate’s means to keep up high quality whereas working effectively. This stability assures potential employers of dependable and error-free output.

  • Influence on Total Productiveness

    Accuracy immediately impacts total productiveness by minimizing time spent on correcting errors. This saved time will be allotted to different duties, contributing to elevated effectivity and output. In fast-paced work environments, excessive typing accuracy permits workers to maintain up with calls for, meet deadlines, and contribute successfully to group objectives.

In conclusion, accuracy proportion is just not merely a supplementary metric however an important indicator of a candidate’s typing proficiency. When introduced alongside WPM, it offers a complete view of keyboarding expertise, highlighting not solely velocity but in addition the important aspect of high quality. A resume emphasizing each velocity and accuracy successfully showcases a candidate’s means to contribute to a productive and environment friendly work setting.

3. Related Software program Expertise

Proficiency in related software program purposes considerably enhances the worth of typing expertise on a resume. Whereas uncooked typing velocity and accuracy are foundational, sensible utility inside particular software program environments is essential for many roles. Itemizing related software program proficiencies demonstrates a candidate’s means to make the most of typing expertise successfully in an expert context. For instance, proficiency in Microsoft Phrase, Google Docs, or specialised information entry software program immediately interprets to elevated productiveness in roles requiring doc creation, information administration, or buyer interplay by way of digital platforms. This connection highlights the significance of contextualizing typing expertise inside a broader ability set.

The impression of software program proficiency on demonstrable typing expertise will be substantial. Familiarity with keyboard shortcuts, software-specific features, and environment friendly navigation inside completely different purposes considerably amplifies productiveness. A candidate proficient in each typing and related software program can carry out duties extra effectively and precisely than somebody with robust typing expertise alone. As an example, a authorized secretary proficient in authorized doc administration software program and possessing robust typing expertise can produce authorized paperwork considerably quicker and with higher accuracy than somebody unfamiliar with the precise software program. This sensible utility provides vital worth to the candidate’s profile.

In conclusion, the connection between related software program expertise and typing expertise is symbiotic. Whereas robust typing expertise present a basis, software program proficiency amplifies their sensible utility and worth inside an expert setting. A resume successfully showcasing each demonstrates a candidate’s readiness to contribute productively in a selected position, enhancing their competitiveness and rising their probabilities of securing the specified place. Failing to focus on related software program expertise alongside typing proficiency diminishes the general impression and probably overlooks essential elements of a candidate’s capabilities.

4. Placement in Expertise Part

Strategic placement of typing expertise inside a resume’s expertise part considerably impacts its effectiveness. This part typically serves as a fast reference level for recruiters, enabling fast evaluation of a candidate’s core competencies. Positioning typing expertise prominently inside this part ensures instant visibility, significantly for roles the place such expertise are paramount. Conversely, burying this info inside a much less distinguished part or omitting it altogether can result in oversight, probably hindering a candidate’s prospects, particularly in aggressive job markets. As an example, a knowledge entry clerk applicant itemizing typing expertise beneath “Extra Info” diminishes its impression in comparison with placement inside the devoted “Expertise” part. This strategic positioning underscores the significance of prioritizing related expertise for focused roles.

Moreover, the context inside the expertise part influences the perceived significance of typing expertise. Grouping them with associated proficiencies, akin to information entry software program or workplace suite mastery, strengthens the general presentation. This creates a cohesive narrative, showcasing a complete ability set tailor-made to the goal position. For instance, an administrative assistant applicant itemizing typing expertise alongside proficiency in Microsoft Workplace Suite and doc administration software program presents a stronger profile than one itemizing these expertise in isolation. This focused grouping amplifies the message of sensible applicability and enhances the candidate’s perceived worth.

In conclusion, considerate placement of typing expertise inside the resume’s expertise part is essential for maximizing impression. Outstanding positioning ensures instant visibility, whereas contextual grouping with associated proficiencies reinforces relevance and strengthens the general presentation. Understanding this precept permits candidates to strategically showcase their typing expertise, enhancing their resume’s effectiveness and bettering their prospects in aggressive job markets. Overlooking this side can result in missed alternatives, even for extremely certified candidates, highlighting the significance of strategic resume building.

5. Quantifiable Achievements

Quantifiable achievements associated to typing expertise present concrete proof of proficiency and impression, considerably strengthening a resume. Whereas stating phrases per minute (WPM) and accuracy affords a baseline measure, showcasing accomplishments achieved by way of these expertise demonstrates sensible utility and worth. For instance, “Diminished information entry errors by 15% by way of improved typing accuracy” or “Elevated doc processing velocity by 20% as a consequence of enhanced typing proficiency” supply extra compelling narratives than merely stating “70 WPM with 95% accuracy.” These quantifiable achievements immediately hyperlink typing expertise to tangible outcomes, demonstrating a candidate’s means to leverage these expertise for organizational profit. This connection transforms typing expertise from a passive attribute to an lively contributor to productiveness and effectivity.

Moreover, incorporating quantifiable achievements associated to typing expertise permits candidates to tailor their resumes to particular job necessities. As an example, an applicant for a medical transcriptionist position might spotlight “Achieved 99% accuracy in transcribing medical data, exceeding division common by 5%.” This focused method demonstrates not solely proficiency but in addition a direct alignment with the position’s calls for, rising the candidate’s perceived suitability. Equally, a knowledge entry specialist might showcase “Processed a mean of 300 data per day with 98% accuracy, contributing to a ten% discount in processing backlog.” These particular examples present compelling proof of expertise utility and ensuing impression, differentiating the candidate from others with comparable baseline typing expertise. This focused method enhances the resume’s effectiveness by immediately addressing the employer’s wants and priorities.

In conclusion, quantifiable achievements present an important hyperlink between typing expertise and demonstrable impression, considerably enhancing a resume’s effectiveness. By showcasing accomplishments achieved by way of typing proficiency, candidates transfer past merely stating metrics and supply concrete proof of their worth. This focused method strengthens the resume’s narrative, demonstrating not solely ability possession but in addition the flexibility to use these expertise successfully to realize tangible outcomes. The sensible significance of this understanding lies in its potential to distinguish candidates, improve their perceived worth, and finally enhance their prospects in aggressive job markets.

6. Certifications (if relevant)

Whereas not at all times obligatory, related certifications can bolster the credibility of typing expertise introduced on a resume. Certifications from acknowledged organizations validate proficiency, offering standardized benchmarks of velocity and accuracy. As an example, a Licensed Skilled Secretary (CPS) designation or an authorized typing take a look at consequence from a good supplier provides weight to claimed expertise, providing potential employers tangible proof of competency past self-reported metrics. This exterior validation will be significantly advantageous in aggressive job markets, differentiating candidates with comparable ability ranges. Moreover, sure specialised roles, akin to medical transcription or authorized secretarial positions, might prioritize and even require particular certifications, underscoring the significance of researching industry-specific requirements.

The sensible significance of together with certifications lies within the enhanced confidence they instill in potential employers. A certification signifies a dedication to skilled growth and adherence to acknowledged requirements. For instance, a candidate itemizing a latest certification in a selected software program program, alongside robust typing expertise, demonstrates proficiency and a dedication to staying present with {industry} instruments and applied sciences. This mixture alerts adaptability and a proactive method to ability enhancement, beneficial attributes in right this moment’s quickly evolving office. Furthermore, certifications can compensate for restricted skilled expertise, providing entry-level candidates a method of demonstrating competency and rising their competitiveness.

In conclusion, whereas not universally required, related certifications can considerably improve the presentation of typing expertise on a resume. These credentials present verifiable benchmarks, bolstering credibility and differentiating candidates in aggressive job markets. The strategic inclusion of certifications demonstrates a dedication to skilled growth and adherence to {industry} requirements, strengthening a candidate’s total profile and rising their potential for profession development. Nevertheless, candidates ought to prioritize certifications related to the goal position and guarantee they originate from respected organizations to maximise impression and keep away from misrepresentation of expertise.

7. Keep away from Overstatement

Accuracy and honesty are paramount when presenting typing expertise on a resume. Overstating talents can result in discrepancies throughout assessments or on-the-job efficiency, damaging credibility and probably jeopardizing employment alternatives. Representing expertise in truth ensures a correct match between candidate and position, fostering a optimistic and productive work setting. This part explores the significance of avoiding overstatement within the context of typing expertise.

  • Real looking Self-Evaluation

    Correct self-assessment varieties the muse of trustworthy ability illustration. Using respected on-line typing assessments and training beneath lifelike situations present dependable metrics. Inflating WPM or accuracy percentages primarily based on idealized situations or outdated assessments creates a deceptive impression. For instance, claiming 100 WPM primarily based on a single, optimum take a look at whereas persistently reaching 70 WPM in sensible situations units unrealistic expectations. Correct self-assessment ensures alignment between introduced expertise and precise talents.

  • Deal with Constant Efficiency

    Highlighting constant efficiency quite than peak efficiency offers a extra lifelike illustration of typing expertise. Whereas occasional bursts of excessive velocity or accuracy are attainable, sustained efficiency ranges are extra related in an expert setting. Emphasizing common WPM and accuracy over brief intervals displays sensible capabilities. As an example, persistently reaching 80 WPM with 95% accuracy over per week holds higher significance than reaching 100 WPM as soon as beneath excellent situations. Constant efficiency displays sustainable office contributions.

  • Relevance to Job Necessities

    Tailoring the presentation of typing expertise to the precise job necessities avoids pointless exaggeration. Whereas excessive WPM could be essential for information entry roles, it holds much less relevance for positions requiring minimal typing. Overemphasizing typing expertise in such circumstances seems disingenuous and probably overshadows extra related {qualifications}. Specializing in expertise immediately relevant to the goal position ensures a concise and impactful resume.

  • Verifiable Claims

    Presenting verifiable claims strengthens credibility and avoids potential discrepancies. Claims akin to “Improved information entry effectivity by 15%” ought to be supported by quantifiable information or efficiency critiques. Imprecise statements like “Distinctive typing expertise” lack substantiation and might increase doubts. Supporting claims with proof demonstrates professionalism and reinforces the accuracy of introduced expertise.

In conclusion, avoiding overstatement when presenting typing expertise on a resume is essential for sustaining credibility and making certain a correct match between candidate and position. Real looking self-assessment, give attention to constant efficiency, relevance to job necessities, and verifiable claims contribute to a truthful and impactful illustration of expertise. This method fosters belief with potential employers and will increase the probability of long-term profession success.

8. Tailor to Job Description

Aligning the presentation of typing expertise with the precise necessities of a goal job description is essential for maximizing resume effectiveness. Generic claims of typing proficiency maintain much less weight than focused demonstrations of expertise related to the possible position. Trigger and impact come into play right here: a tailor-made method will increase the probability of attracting recruiter consideration, resulting in additional consideration. For instance, a knowledge entry clerk applicant ought to emphasize excessive phrases per minute (WPM) and accuracy, whereas an govt assistant may give attention to proficiency in particular software program related to doc creation and correspondence. The significance of tailoring lies in demonstrating a transparent understanding of the job’s calls for and showcasing expertise immediately relevant to these calls for. Actual-life examples embody quantifying achievements immediately related to the goal position, akin to “Elevated information entry effectivity by 15% in a earlier position” for a knowledge entry place, or “Maintained 99% accuracy in getting ready authorized paperwork” for a authorized secretary place. This focused method avoids generic claims and highlights related experience.

Additional evaluation reveals that tailoring extends past merely mentioning related software program. It entails emphasizing particular elements of typing expertise related to the job. A customer support consultant may spotlight proficiency in rapidly and precisely responding to on-line inquiries, whereas a transcriptionist would emphasize accuracy and familiarity with specialised terminology. Sensible purposes embody incorporating key phrases from the job description into the abilities part, quantifying achievements utilizing metrics related to the position, and offering particular examples of how typing expertise have been utilized in earlier positions to realize optimistic outcomes. Failing to tailor the presentation of typing expertise can result in a generic resume that fails to face out, diminishing the applicant’s probabilities of securing an interview even with robust typing talents.

In conclusion, tailoring the presentation of typing expertise to the precise necessities of a job description is just not merely a really helpful follow however an important technique for efficient resume building. It demonstrates a transparent understanding of the position’s calls for, highlights related experience, and will increase the probability of attracting recruiter consideration. The sensible significance of this understanding lies in its potential to distinguish candidates, showcase related expertise, and finally enhance prospects in aggressive job markets. Challenges embody precisely deciphering job descriptions and successfully translating expertise into focused accomplishments. Nevertheless, the advantages of a tailor-made method considerably outweigh the hassle required, positioning candidates for higher success of their job search.

9. Present, Do not Simply Inform

The precept of “present, do not simply inform” is essential for successfully speaking typing expertise on a resume. As an alternative of merely stating proficiency, candidates ought to display expertise by way of concrete examples and quantifiable achievements. This method offers verifiable proof of talents, strengthening the resume and rising the probability of securing an interview. This part explores sensible purposes of this precept.

  • Quantifying Achievements

    Relatively than stating “Glorious typing expertise,” quantify accomplishments. As an example, “Elevated information entry effectivity by 15% by implementing a brand new typing approach” or “Persistently maintained 99% accuracy in transcribing authorized paperwork, exceeding the group common by 3%.” These quantifiable achievements present concrete proof of ability and impression.

  • Contextualizing Software program Proficiency

    Itemizing software program proficiency alone is inadequate. Exhibit how typing expertise improve software program utilization. For instance, “Proficient in Microsoft Phrase, using keyboard shortcuts to create and format complicated paperwork with excessive effectivity and accuracy” or “Skilled in utilizing Google Docs for collaborative initiatives, making certain constant formatting and error-free documentation by way of exact typing expertise.” This contextualization highlights sensible utility.

  • Highlighting Related Initiatives

    Incorporating initiatives that showcase typing expertise offers concrete examples of utility. As an example, “Efficiently accomplished a knowledge entry challenge involving 10,000 data inside the designated timeframe, sustaining 98% accuracy” or “Transcribed 50 hours of audio recordings for a analysis challenge, making certain correct and well timed supply of transcripts.” Challenge-based examples supply tangible proof of expertise in motion.

  • Utilizing Motion Verbs

    Using motion verbs to explain typing expertise provides dynamism and impression. As an alternative of stating “Proficient in typing,” use verbs like “Transcribed,” “Processed,” “Enter,” “Compiled,” or “Generated.” For instance, “Transcribed assembly minutes with 100% accuracy” or “Processed over 200 buyer inquiries per day with minimal error price.” Motion verbs create a extra partaking and impactful presentation.

By making use of the “present, do not simply inform” precept, candidates remodel a generic declare of typing proficiency right into a compelling narrative of ability and impression. This method strengthens the resume, differentiates candidates, and finally will increase the probability of securing an interview by offering verifiable proof of capabilities and accomplishments. This technique strengthens the general presentation and permits recruiters to readily assess the sensible utility of typing expertise inside an expert context.

Continuously Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the inclusion and presentation of typing expertise on a resume. Clear and concise responses goal to supply sensible steerage for successfully showcasing this beneficial asset.

Query 1: How important are typing expertise on a resume in right this moment’s digital age?

Whereas the precise significance varies relying on the position, proficient typing stays extremely related. Many positions require intensive laptop use, and environment friendly, correct typing immediately impacts productiveness. Even roles not explicitly centered on information entry profit from robust keyboarding expertise, as environment friendly communication and doc creation are important throughout varied professions.

Query 2: Is it essential to listing phrases per minute (WPM) and accuracy?

Together with WPM and accuracy offers quantifiable metrics, providing employers concrete information for evaluation. Nevertheless, prioritizing quantifiable achievements demonstrating the sensible utility of those expertise typically proves extra impactful. If WPM and accuracy are included, guarantee they mirror constant efficiency, not remoted peak outcomes.

Query 3: The place ought to typing expertise be positioned on a resume?

The “Expertise” part usually offers the best placement. This devoted part permits recruiters to rapidly assess core competencies. Contextual grouping with associated expertise, akin to software program proficiency or information entry expertise, additional enhances the presentation.

Query 4: How can one showcase typing expertise past stating WPM and accuracy?

Demonstrating the impression of typing expertise by way of quantifiable achievements offers stronger proof of proficiency. Examples embody “Diminished information entry errors by 15%” or “Elevated doc processing velocity by 20%.” These accomplishments illustrate sensible utility and tangible advantages.

Query 5: Are typing certifications useful?

Whereas not at all times required, related certifications can validate expertise and improve credibility, significantly for specialised roles like medical transcription. Certifications present standardized benchmarks and display dedication to skilled growth.

Query 6: How can one keep away from overstating typing expertise on a resume?

Trustworthy self-assessment is essential. Base claims on constant efficiency, not remoted peak outcomes. Guarantee claims are verifiable and related to the goal position’s necessities. Deal with demonstrating expertise by way of quantifiable achievements quite than making generic statements.

Key takeaway: Efficient presentation of typing expertise entails greater than merely itemizing metrics. Contextualization, quantification of achievements, and trustworthy self-assessment are essential for maximizing impression and conveying true proficiency.

The following part will discover particular examples of successfully incorporate typing expertise inside completely different resume codecs and for varied profession fields.

Optimizing Resume Presentation of Keyboarding Proficiency

This part affords sensible suggestions for successfully showcasing keyboarding talents inside a resume, maximizing impression and attracting recruiter consideration. Every tip focuses on strategic presentation, making certain relevance and readability.

Tip 1: Prioritize Quantifiable Achievements: As an alternative of merely stating “Glorious typing expertise,” display impression by way of quantifiable metrics. For instance, “Diminished information entry errors by 15%” or “Elevated transcription velocity by 20% whereas sustaining 99% accuracy” present concrete proof of proficiency and its sensible utility.

Tip 2: Tailor Presentation to Particular Job Necessities: Rigorously analyze job descriptions and spotlight keyboarding expertise related to the goal position. Customise the presentation to deal with particular wants and display a transparent understanding of the place’s calls for.

Tip 3: Contextualize Software program Proficiency: Join keyboarding expertise with related software program experience. As an example, “Proficient in Microsoft Phrase, leveraging keyboard shortcuts to create complicated paperwork effectively” showcases sensible utility inside a selected software program setting.

Tip 4: Make the most of Motion Verbs: Make use of dynamic motion verbs to explain keyboarding expertise. As an alternative of stating “Proficient in typing,” use verbs like “Transcribed,” “Processed,” “Enter,” or “Generated” to convey a extra lively and impactful message.

Tip 5: Strategically Place Expertise inside the Resume: Place keyboarding proficiency inside the devoted “Expertise” part for instant visibility. Contemplate grouping associated expertise, akin to information entry or software program proficiency, to create a cohesive and impactful presentation.

Tip 6: Preserve Accuracy and Honesty: Keep away from overstating talents. Base claims on constant efficiency, not remoted peak outcomes. Guarantee all claims are verifiable and related to the goal position’s necessities.

Tip 7: Contemplate Related Certifications: Whereas not at all times obligatory, certifications can validate proficiency and improve credibility. Embrace related certifications from acknowledged organizations to strengthen the presentation, significantly for specialised roles.

By implementing the following pointers, candidates can successfully talk their keyboarding proficiency, reworking a generic ability right into a demonstrable asset. This strategic method enhances resume impression, attracting recruiter consideration and rising the probability of securing an interview.

The next conclusion summarizes key takeaways and reinforces the significance of successfully presenting keyboarding expertise on a resume in right this moment’s aggressive job market.

Conclusion

Efficient communication of keyboarding proficiency on a resume requires a strategic method that strikes past merely itemizing phrases per minute. This exploration has highlighted the significance of contextualizing expertise, quantifying achievements, and tailoring shows to particular job necessities. Key takeaways embody the importance of accuracy, the worth of related software program proficiency, and the impression of verifiable accomplishments. Moreover, strategic placement inside the resume and the potential advantages of related certifications have been emphasised. Correct and trustworthy self-assessment stays paramount all through the method.

In right this moment’s aggressive job market, the flexibility to successfully showcase keyboarding expertise can considerably impression profession prospects. A well-crafted resume that clearly demonstrates proficiency, quantifies impression, and aligns with goal position necessities positions candidates for fulfillment. This understanding empowers job seekers to leverage keyboarding expertise as a beneficial asset, differentiating themselves and securing desired positions.