It is essential to possess software skills in order to succeed in today’s workplace, which is dominated by technology. The use of technology will play a part in your day-to-day work, whether you are aspiring to be an administrative assistant, a sales manager, or an HR manager.
Therefore, employers expect job candidates to have at least basic software skills. But what are the best software and computer skills for your resume, and how should you list them?
The purpose of this article is to explain what software skills are and why they are important. Furthermore, we’ll demonstrate how to list software skills on a tech resume and discuss examples of computer skills on a resume.
Key Takeaways
- Having the right software skills on your resume will set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing job interviews and opportunities.
- Software skills encompass the ability to use specific computer programs and applications. These skills enable effective use of tools for tasks such as scheduling, word processing, and data analysis.
- Including a section for computer skills on your resume is crucial. It’s important to match skills with the job description and categorize them as basic, intermediate, or advanced, depending on proficiency.
- Highly sought-after software skills include machine learning, programming, cloud computing, and data analysis due to the rapid advancement of technology.
Top Computer Skills to List on Your Resume
Across industries and jobs, potential employers value the following eight computer and software skills:
- Communication tools
- Social media
- Spreadsheets
- Word processing and desktop publishing tools
- Presentation tools
- Computer programming
- Databases
- Graphic design
What Are Software Skills?
It is common for people to wonder, “What are software skills?” as well as “What are computer skills?” Computer skills are subsets of software skills. The term “computer skills” refers to everything involving computers, while “software skills” are specific to the use of computer programs.
Software skills allow you to make use of applications on a computer. For instance, if you are an executive assistant, you may need to use a digital calendar application to track your boss’s schedule. Or, you may have to use Microsoft Word to prepare professional correspondence on behalf of your manager.
Depending on your position, you will use different software skills and computer skills. As a quality assurance engineer, for example, you may work with programming languages, artificial intelligence, or deep learning models that require advanced computing skills. An assistant or office manager, for example, will use software like Microsoft Office or Atlassian more frequently.
Why Are Computer Skills Important?
People often talk about how important computer skills are when it comes to their careers. These skills are brought up so often, that many people start to wonder, why are computer skills so important?
Technology plays a significant role in the efficient completion of a variety of tasks in modern businesses. Competing candidates may not be able to perform certain tasks due to a lack of computer skills. The knowledge you possess will enable you to gain an advantage over your competitors in the recruitment process.
So to answer the question simply, computer skills are important because they provide applicants with a competitive edge during the recruitment process. This competitive edge can result in an interview, a pre-employment test to demonstrate these computer or software skills, and a higher chance of winning the employment opportunity.
Why Do I Need Computer Skills on a Resume?
In the modern workplace, it is imperative to provide computer skill examples on a resume. The use of technology within businesses has expanded as technology has advanced. Employers can identify whether you have the background and skills to perform the job advertised by using computer skill examples.
By automating repetitive tasks and speeding up common processes, technology allows businesses to become more efficient. Software skills also enable workers to finish their work faster, resulting in an increase in productivity.
Computer skill examples are often looked for by employers when hiring candidates. Your resume should list your computer skills, technical skills, and soft skills, along with examples. By doing this, you will be able to show an employer how valuable you are and help them better understand the technologies you are familiar with.
Types of Computer Skills
Computer skills can be leveraged on a resume to impress a hiring manager or win employment. Three basic skill levels are often used to categorize relevant skills. List your basic computer skills, intermediate computer skills, and advanced computer skills on your resume to prove to an employer you have the relevant computer skills needed to perform the advertised position.
| Basic Computer Skills | Intermediate Computer Skills | Advanced Computer Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Excel Word Processing Spreadsheets PowerPoint |
Quickbooks Data Analytics Hyperlinking Collaboration Tools Database Manipulation |
Computer Hardware Skills Computer Software Skills Computer Programming Data Visualization Multimedia Integrations |
As you can see, each type of skill differs from each other. Basic computer skills are often looked at as everyday administrative skills such as email, typing, and document creation. Intermediate computer skills focus on manipulating data, using analytics, and creating complex spreadsheets. Advanced computer skills include programming and computer science expertise.
8 Software and Computer Skills for a Resume
So far, we’ve discussed what software skills are and why they are useful. But to convey that you have skills using software, you may want to say more than just “software skills” on your resume. How can you communicate your software skills to employers more specifically?
First, begin by dividing the best software skills for a resume and computer skills for a resume. After you have made your list, place these advanced skills under the relevant computer skills or software skills section of your resume. To help you decide which skills to choose before you submit your next job application, we have selected some of the best-performing options.
#1: Communication tools
Communication tools allow companies to share information more effectively among their clients and workforce. If you are applying for a job that involves a high degree of digital communication, you should mention tools that you have used.
In addition, if you are applying for a remote job, you may want to highlight your experience with communication tools.
Here are a few tools you could mention on your resume:
- Slack
- Google Hangouts
- Skype
- Zoom
- Microsoft Teams
- Basecamp
#2: Social Media
Social media has become a good way for companies to build their brand identity. If you are working in a job related to marketing or personal assisting, having experience using social media tools can be useful. Also, if you are applying for a social media management position, you will want to mention your social media skills.
Here are a few social media tools you can list on your resume:
- Hootsuite
- Buffer
#3: Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets allow you to collect data in tables. When data is stored in a spreadsheet, you can use formulas to perform basic and advanced calculations.
If you are applying for a position that involves numbers, you may be expected to know how to use spreadsheet software. For instance, if you are going to work in HR, you may need to use spreadsheets to review and track statistics.
Here are a few examples of how you can list knowledge of spreadsheets on your resume:
- Knowledge of spreadsheets
- Excel
- Google Sheets
- Airtable
#4: Word Processing and Desktop Publishing Tools
Knowledge of word processing and desktop publishing tools is essential in many jobs. If you’re an assistant, you may have to write memos using a tool like Microsoft Word. If you are an accountant, you will have to prepare formal reports using word processing tools.
Here are a few ways you can communicate experience with these types of tools on your resume:
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Microsoft Publisher
- Google Docs
- Experience using desktop publishing tools
#5: Presentation Tools
Being able to present information to others effectively is a core part of many jobs. This is true whether you’re a business manager, a digital marketer, or an HR manager.
If you have experience using tools such as PowerPoint, you should mention them on your resume. You can mention that you have presentation skills. Or, you can note a specific tool that you have used, such as Google Slides or PowerPoint.
#6: Computer Programming
Depending on the position you are applying for, you may also want to list experience with computer programming.
Most jobs that require computer programming as a skill are directly related to technology, like web development or quality assurance engineering. However, if you possess programming skills that you think are relevant to your job, you should still mention them in your resume.
Knowing a programming skill may allow you to perform a job more effectively. For instance, suppose you are an accountant who knows how to code. You could perhaps use your programming skills to automate common processes in your work.
If you decide to mention computer programming as a software skill on your resume, you should cite specific examples of technologies that you know. For instance, you could mention that you know how to code in C++, HTML, Python, or PHP.
#7: Databases
While spreadsheets are more common in most jobs than databases, there are some roles where you’ll need a basic knowledge of databases. For instance, if you’re working in sales, you may be asked to keep track of certain sales in a database tool.
If you have experience using databases, you may want to mention it on your resume. You can mention a specific database you have used. Or you can talk about a type of database architecture you’re familiar with, like graphical or relational databases.
Here are a few database skills you could mention on your resume:
- Microsoft Access
- NoSQL
- RDBMS
- SQL
- XML Databases
#8: Graphic Design
Although you may not need to use graphic design skills every day, these skills can go a long way in the workplace. By using your graphic design skills, you can turn a simple document or presentation into something that is more visually appealing and engaging.
Here are a few graphic design skills you can mention on your resume:
- Familiarity with the Adobe Suite
- Desktop Publishing
- Design
- InDesign
- Sketch
List of Computer Skills for Resume: Other Skills to Include in Your CV
When creating your resume manually, or through a resume builder, you will likely come to a point where you need to add a list of computer skills for the resume. This list should be concise, but also successfully demonstrate that you possess strong computer skills. Aside from the skills listed in the previous section, a list of computer skills should also include the skillsets the employer specifically listed on the job description.
Not only will this demonstrate you have the appropriate technical knowledge to succeed, but it will also prove to the employer that you have reviewed the job posting and took the time to amend your resume to showcase your technical skills. In addition to the skills listed in the previous section, here is a list of other computer skills to include in your resume:
- G-Suite. Google G-Suite, also known as the Google Workspace, is another popular application that many modern companies use in the workplace. It houses applications such as Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Hangouts.
- Enterprise systems: Having experience with enterprise systems like customer relationship management (CRM) tools or supply chain management systems can set you apart from the competition. If you are familiar with this type of software, make sure to mention it in your resume.
- Web and Coding. If you are pursuing a career as a computer scientist or software engineer, then it is important to create a list of computer skills that match this knowledge. Be sure to include any programming languages you are proficient in and if you are comfortable with content management systems.
- QuickBooks: Knowing Quickbooks can come in handy in many situations, whether you are an accountant, a bookkeeper, or an administrative assistant. If you have experience with this program, make sure to list it in your CV as well.
- Writing. Great communication skills are important when writing a resume. This is because it shows employers that you have a good command of English and are professional and comfortable with content creation. This skill is important for basic communication in emails as well as for obtaining a job as a content specialist or editor.
How to List Computer Skills on Your Resume
It’s time to list your software skills on your resume now that you know some great examples. If you’ve never added a skills section to your resume, you may wonder how to list computer skills on a resume. Learn how to list software skills on your resume by following these steps:
- Create a master list of skills. Sit down and start listing software skills and computer skills for your resume. Pick skills of different levels including computer skills, software skills, time management, and communication. The list should be long.
- Compare your master list to the job posting requirements. After creating a list of software skills or computer skills, it is time to pull up the job description of the position you are applying for. Go through and highlight the required skills. This will help guide you during the pairing down process.
- Pair the list down. Now that you have a listing of software skills for your resume and a list of skills for the job opportunity, it is time to pair down the master list. Select essential skills that are listed on the job description and your master list. These skills will be the most beneficial.
- Rank the remaining skills. Although you likely paired down a large amount of computer and software skills for the resume, it is likely that the list is still too long. Now go through and rank these skills based on your level of proficiency.
- Place the listing of software skills on your resume. Take the top five to eight skills that you are most proficient in and place them on your resume under the skills section. These skills will provide you with a competitive edge against applicants who submit a generic resume.
Where to Put Software Skills on Resume
Armed with a list of valuable skills, you are now ready to place them on your resume. This may lead new applicants to wonder exactly where to put software skills on a resume. While there is not a specific rule that states one location is best over another, it is generally recommended that skills go in the left or right margin of a resume in a clean bullet-point fashion.
Another great example of where to list software skills on a resume is at the top of the document. This immediately draws an employer’s eyes to the skills and provides a great overview of skill level.
How to List Computer Skills on a Resume: Samples
A software skill can be mentioned in either the skills section or the employment history section of your resume. If you list software skills on your resume in the skills section, then it is important to make this listing concise and to the point. The skills section typically provides an overview of multiple skills without too many details on how these skills were utilized in the workplace.
Here is an example of software skills being listed in the “skills” section of a resume:
Technical Skills:
- Programming languages
- Software skills
- Data analysis
- Project management
- Customer relationship management
- Information security
Interpersonal Skills:
- Clear verbal communication
- Conflict resolution
- Relationship management
- Problem-solving
- Self-starter
- Team player
Here is an example of software skills listed in the “employment history” resume section:
J.J. Accounting
Administrative Assistant
September 2017 – Present
– Coordinated the office manager’s schedule using Google Calendar
– Wrote professional correspondence on behalf of the office manager using Microsoft Word
– Answered the phone on behalf of the office manager, took memos and maintained the filing system
How to Describe Computer Skills Levels on a Resume
Making a list of software skills is one thing, actually describing these skills is another hurdle entirely. If you ever find yourself asking, “How do you describe your level of computer skills on a resume?” you are not alone. Thousands of people struggle with this question every day.
Ranking computer skills and separating them by proficiency level is one of the best ways to describe levels of computer skills on a resume. Software proficiency levels will vary depending on your experience and education. Be honest about your knowledge and provide three levels of valuable skills to an employer.
Software skills should be separated into basic, intermediate, and advanced skill levels in order to demonstrate a basic understanding of the job and the skills that are needed for it. Now you know how to describe computer skills. If you still aren’t comfortable with the idea, an example is provided below to guide you.
Describing Computer Skills Levels: A Sample
After completing a list of skills based on proficiency, it is time to list these computer skills on your resume. When creating your list, it is important to separate each level as a heading and provide strong examples in bullet points. Place advanced skills at the top, intermediate skills in the middle, and basic skills at the bottom. Here are some strong examples:
Advanced Proficiencies:
- Provided design and maintenance of the company’s website and tracked 8,000 visits per month.
- Resolved a cyber security breach on a network server with over 300 users.
- Excellent knowledge of HTML coding. Implemented HTML coding for a variety of front end development websites.
- Incorporated OneDrive into the office’s filing system to facilitate the organization of online documents.
Intermediate Proficiencies:
- Employed Adobe Illustrator to create company marketing materials.
- Utilized advanced presentation software to conduct presentations with voiceovers.
- Responsible for assigning, managing, and approving 150 content projects each month.
- Tracked analytics and performance for marketing ads posted on a variety of social media channels.
Basic Proficiencies:
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suites, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Implemented Google Calendar to organize meetings for the entire department.
- Created weekly emails to keep employees informed of updated policies within the company.
- Reviewed marketing material for typographical errors and syntax.
Each of these examples shows that an employee has different types of pertinent skills for the job. It also clearly demonstrates their level of proficiency to the employer. Simple and concise language is eyecatching, especially when it provides the entire purview of the job applicant in a quick glance.
Listing Computer Skills on Your Resume: A Conclusion
Listing your software skills and computer skills on a resume is essential. Not only do they provide you with leverage over applicants who omit these sections, but they also provide the full scope of your abilities, thus making you more employable. A resume is not the only appropriate place to mention your software skills. Consider including them in your cover letter too.
Remember, even some of the most simple software skills can hold weight. The ability to use Zoom, use Google Analytics, or implement search engine optimization may be the one valuable skill that pushes you ahead of other applicants.
There are countless examples of valuable computer skills for your resume. Do your research to determine which are the most relevant for the position you are seeking.
Software Skills for Resume FAQ
In an everyday office environment, you will need basic software skills. Adding proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, working independently or in teams, or understanding SAP should be included on your basic software skills list. Each individual’s list of basic software skills for a resume will differ depending on experience and education.
You can learn computer skills for free through online learning platforms such as Coursera, edX, Dataquest, or Udemy. If you are unsure how to navigate these online platforms, quickly google search ‘how to learn computer skills for free.’ You can research each of these online courses to find one that works for you.
The computer skills that employers are looking for are proficiency in popular programming languages, a deep understanding of data analytics and spreadsheet manipulation, and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or G-Suite applications. These are the most sought-after software skills in today’s job market.
The most in-demand software skills are machine learning, programming, cloud computing, and data analysis. These in-demand software skills are on the rise due to a rapid increase in technological advancement.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
