Basic computer skills are important for almost any type of job. If you are looking for a new job, it might be a great idea to list computer skills on your resume. Technical knowledge is transferable and works for a vast majority of industries, whether they deal with technology on a surface level or not.
In this guide, you’ll learn what computer skills you can add to your resume and how to list them impactfully.
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Basic computer skills refer to all competencies and skills related to using computers and specific software programs. Usually, advanced computer skills are essential for tech-related careers. For instance, if you want to work in web development, graphic design, or cyber security.
But even if the job description does not list computer literacy skills directly, you’ll most likely going to need them. For example, a sales manager might need to use a CRM or warehouse management system. Various computer programs are used in almost any profession nowadays.
Some basic computer skills are essential, so hiring managers do not list them as a requirement. Those are:
These competencies cover expected computer literacy in the modern workforce. Not everyone has to have programming skills, but every professional is expected to be a confident user of the most popular software solutions.
Some jobs require computer skills that have to do with direct responsibilities. You might have to learn accounting software or database management.
Even if the role you are applying to does not signify computer skills in the requirements, it is essential to cover the basics. Here are the main reasons why:
More isn’t always the better. Some of the competencies are among the basic computer skills that everyone should have. So, for example, listing that you know how to work with Windows OS on a user level is not worth it.
It might even be a bad thing because it shows that your computer skills level is low. And it looks outdated. It was okay to name such basic computer skills at the beginning of the century when only a percentage of professionals had experience with computers.
The general rule is not to list something anyone can do unless it is stated otherwise in the job description. Computer skills almost everyone has are:
First of all, write down what specific computer skills you have. Evaluate the list and eliminate any basics if they’ve made the cut before.
Secondly, look through the candidate requirements and define various computer skills named there. If nothing specific is mentioned, base your choice on a basic understanding of work responsibilities and computer skills you used in the previous position.
Thirdly, make a short list of the strong computer skills that will be relevant for the position and will paint your professionalism in the best light. It is essential not to overestimate your competencies. Any computer skill can be acquired on a different level.
You can signify your level with such words as:
For example, you can be an expert in Microsoft Excel and have a working knowledge of Google Analytics. A realistic description of your computer software and hardware skills allows recruiters to evaluate the candidature correctly. Also, it prevents any misunderstanding in an interview or in the future workplace.
In this section, you’ll find five of the most crucial computer skills to mention in your resume. They differ in the depth level and purposes.
Candidates who apply to office positions can name Microsoft Office Suite competencies among computer skills. However, it is crucial to have advanced computer skills in this regard. If you have only used this software in your daily routine a couple of times, it is different.
Knowledge of MS Office technology means that you have a deep understanding of the functionality and potential of those solutions. Such skills include:
Some professions require specialized skills when it comes to particular MS Office programs (for instance, the use of MS Excel in accounting). Overall, listing such computer skills is beneficial for administrative assistants, secretaries, teachers, accountants, data analysts, and marketing professionals.
When applying to computer development positions, one needs to be very specific about their computer skills. Particular software and hardware skills could be a must for a role. Pay attention to the description and research the company to adjust your resume accordingly.
Those who have advanced computer skills like programming or database operations should list them at the top of the skills section. These competencies are crucial, so they go first. Start with the most high-level competencies that are relevant for the position.
Position your computer skills in the following order:
If you have a great list of programming languages, there is no need to mention Microsoft Word or knowledge of collaboration tools. You are expected to know them already as those are common computer skills, not expert level.
Also, categorize the list according to programming languages, specific software tools, and frameworks/operational systems. Another good idea is to signify the years of experience in the brackets next to computer skills:
Web development with JavaScript, Java, and SQL (5 years).
Another option to organize your advanced computer skills is as follows:
This section is also for professionals with advanced computer skills. Whether you are already working with data or plan on shifting to data analysis, you need to state your competencies correctly.
Maybe you haven’t updated your resume in years, which allowed you to improve your computer skills or acquire new ones.
To make your computer skills shine, apply the same basics as for computer technology and developing roles described above. Think of all the new competencies and certifications you’ve acquired in recent years. Consider what technologies and solutions you’ve worked with. It can be a new application designed to analyze data faster.
Here are some ideas on what to include in the skills section for data analysts:
In the same fashion as software developers, analysts may determine the level of expertise and years of experience. Showcasing your computer skills in such a manner can set you on top of the competition.
Understanding cybersecurity risks and threats is among the essential computer skills in the modern workforce. The number of security threats rises exponentially every year. And having a fundamental awareness is crucial.
Listing such digital skills might be advantageous in specific industries like Finance, Banking, Insurance, and Governmental agencies. Those industries deal with sensitive data on a daily basis. So, all the employees with access to such data must develop computer skills in terms of cyber protection.
Advanced skills are necessary for technical specialists. But if you are not among them, you still need to know how to avoid different types of attacks and how to stay away from malware. For instance, opening shady emails with infected links is one of the common ways companies get their data leaked.
If you followed online courses in cyber security or have such certifications, mention them in your resume.
Digital marketing is another sphere that requires particular computer skills. A professional has to have a combination of soft and hard skills to perform well. It might include social media skills, work with Google Sheets, analytics, and SEO, among other nuances.
Digital marketing relies heavily on technology to gather and analyze data, which helps plan and execute various campaigns. Here are some of the common computer skills examples for digital marketers:
Additionally, you may mention productivity software you’ve worked with or graphic design skills. The exact list depends on the role you are applying to and future responsibilities. But digital marketers often have to know a lot of things on some level, from content creation to online campaign management.
The way you list your computer skills on your CV depends on the industry and position. The more technical knowledge the role includes, the higher the section should be.
For instance, a developer must put coding knowledge and experience at the top of the resume. If you are applying for an accounting position, computer skills are the crucial competencies of an accountant.
The main rule is to focus on what is relevant for the job and avoid listing anything that offers no value.
Also, list your computer skills education in the appropriate section. It can include courses in Computer science, cybersecurity training, or other ways you’ve acquired a new computer skill.
