As an actuary, you know that technical skills are crucial to succeed in your role. Proficiencies in statistical analysis, programming languages like Python or R, and experience with actuarial software are essential. However, non-technical skills, often overlooked, are equally important. These skills can make the difference between a good actuary and a great one. In this article, we’ll explore how to maximize non-technical skills in your actuarial resume, providing you with the tools to stand out in a competitive job market.

Let’s start with a scenario many of us can relate to: you’re applying for an actuarial position, and you’re confident in your technical abilities. You’ve mastered the latest statistical models and can code in Python with ease. But as you scroll through the job description, you notice phrases like “team collaboration,” “effective communication,” and “problem-solving.” These are not just buzzwords; they’re essential non-technical skills that employers value highly.

So, what are these non-technical skills, and why are they important? Non-technical skills, also known as soft skills, are personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively with others, manage your time, and adapt to new situations. They include analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, time management, adaptability, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and project management[1][3]. These skills are vital because they help you work efficiently in a professional environment and collaborate with colleagues from various backgrounds.

To incorporate these skills into your resume, it’s not enough just to list them. You need to provide concrete examples of how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios. For instance, if you’re highlighting teamwork, you might describe a project where you worked with a cross-functional team to develop a new actuarial model. Explain how your role in the team contributed to the project’s success, and what you learned from the experience.

Another critical non-technical skill is communication. As an actuary, you often have to present complex data insights to non-technical stakeholders. Highlighting your ability to simplify technical information and convey it effectively is crucial. For example, you could mention a presentation you gave to senior management, explaining how you used data visualization tools like Tableau to make the data more accessible and engaging[5].

Problem-solving is another essential skill. Actuaries are often faced with complex problems that require creative solutions. In your resume, you might describe a situation where you encountered an unexpected issue in a project. Explain how you approached the problem, what steps you took to resolve it, and the outcome. This shows not only your analytical thinking but also your ability to handle challenges under pressure.

Adaptability is also a valuable skill to highlight. The actuarial field is constantly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. Showcasing your ability to adapt to these changes can make you a more attractive candidate. For instance, you might mention a time when you learned a new software tool or programming language to improve your workflow.

Project management is another key non-technical skill. As you progress in your career, you’ll likely be responsible for managing projects or teams. Highlighting your ability to organize tasks, set deadlines, and lead others can be a significant advantage. If you’ve managed a project from start to finish, describe how you ensured its success, what challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.

Finally, ethical decision-making is a critical non-technical skill. As an actuary, you’ll often be faced with decisions that have significant financial implications. Demonstrating your ability to make ethical choices, even in difficult situations, can build trust with potential employers. For example, you might describe a scenario where you had to make a decision that balanced business needs with ethical considerations, and how you approached it.

Incorporating these non-technical skills into your resume requires more than just listing them; it involves telling a story. Use specific examples from your experience or academic projects to illustrate how you’ve applied these skills. This not only makes your resume more engaging but also shows that you’re not just a technical expert, but a well-rounded professional who can work effectively in any team.

For those just starting out, it might seem challenging to highlight non-technical skills without extensive experience. However, even in academic projects or internships, you can demonstrate these skills. For instance, if you worked on a group project, describe how you contributed to the team’s success and what you learned from the experience. If you’re a recent graduate, mention any relevant coursework or projects that involved teamwork, communication, or problem-solving.

In conclusion, while technical skills are the foundation of an actuary’s role, non-technical skills are what set you apart from others. By highlighting these skills effectively in your resume, you can show potential employers that you’re not just a technical expert, but a collaborative, adaptable, and effective professional who can thrive in any environment. Remember, the key is to provide concrete examples that demonstrate your ability to apply these skills in real-world scenarios. With practice and experience, you’ll become adept at showcasing your non-technical skills, making you a highly sought-after candidate in the actuarial field.