How to Write a Job-Winning Resume | Guide for All Job Seekers in 2024
Learn how to write a resume that will get you your dream job.
Top 10 Computer Skills For Your Resume
In today’s digital age, computer skills are essential for almost every job. Whether you’re applying for a role in marketing, IT, administration, or any other field, showcasing your technical proficiency can set you apart from other candidates.
By highlighting these computer skills on your resume, you can increase your chances of landing your desired job! That being said, tailoring your skills to match the job description can make your application even more compelling, so only include skills relevant to the position you are applying to.
Here are the top 10 computer skills you should consider including on your resume:
1) Microsoft Office Suite:
Mastery of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is crucial for many positions. These tools are widely used for creating documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and managing emails, making them essential for day-to-day tasks.
2) Google Workspace:
As businesses increasingly rely on cloud-based tools, proficiency in Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail is becoming more important. These tools facilitate collaboration and productivity, especially in remote work environments.
3) Data Analysis:
Skills in data analysis tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions and pivot tables), Google Sheets, or specialized software such as Tableau or Power BI can be invaluable for roles that require data-driven decision-making.
4) Programming Languages:
Knowledge of programming languages like Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and SQL is highly sought after in software development, data science, and IT roles. Including these on your resume can demonstrate your technical expertise.
5) Database Management:
Experience with database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or Oracle is essential for positions that involve managing and analyzing large datasets. These skills are crucial for ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
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Software Engineer Resume Example
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Network Engineer Resume Example
6) Graphic Design:
Proficiency in graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign is important for roles in marketing, web design, and other creative fields. These tools help in creating visually appealing content.
7) Web Development:
Skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and familiarity with web development frameworks like React or Angular are vital for web developers. These skills enable you to build and maintain websites and web applications.
8) Cybersecurity:
Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, tools, and practices, including understanding firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems, is critical for IT and security roles. These skills help protect organizational data from cyber threats.
9) Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software:
Experience with CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM is important for roles in sales, marketing, and customer service. These tools help manage customer interactions and improve business relationships.
10) Project Management Software:
Proficiency in project management tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or JIRA is beneficial for roles that involve planning, executing, and managing projects. These tools aid in organizing tasks, tracking progress, and ensuring project completion.
Pro Tip: Not sure which computer skills to include in your resume? Use our Resume Builder to access popular resume templates and get pre-written expert recommendations for your job title.
Use Our Resume Builder
Still need guidance on how to include computer skills in your resume? Take the easy route and let our resume builder help you with prewritten phrases and step-by-step advice so you can easily customize and download your professionally designed resume in minutes.
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Software Developer Resume Example
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Software Engineer Resume Example
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Accountant Resume Example
More Examples of Resume Computer Skills
There are many different types of computer skills – basic and advanced, hardware- and software-related. Browse the lists below to get inspiration for your resume, but remember to only include computer skills that are mentioned in the job description and relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Basic Computer Skills For Resumes
Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to switch fields, having a solid foundation in basic computer skills is essential.
These skills form the backbone of your technical proficiency and can be applied in almost any job. Here are some fundamental computer skills to consider including on your resume:
- Typing: Fast and accurate typing skills are crucial for efficiently handling written communication, data entry, and documentation tasks.
- Email Management: Proficiency in using email platforms such as Microsoft Outlook or Gmail is essential for professional communication, scheduling, and organizing emails.
- Internet Research: The ability to effectively use search engines and navigate websites is important for gathering information, conducting research, and staying informed.
- File Management: Understanding how to organize, store, and retrieve files on a computer is key for maintaining order and accessibility in your digital workspace.
- Basic Troubleshooting: Knowing how to handle common computer issues, such as software crashes or connectivity problems, can save time and increase productivity.
- Operating Systems: Familiarity with major operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux is fundamental for navigating and utilizing a computer effectively.
- Word Processing: Skills in word processing software like Microsoft Word or Google Docs are necessary for creating, editing, and formatting documents.
- Spreadsheets: Basic knowledge of spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets is valuable for data organization, calculations, and simple analysis.
- Presentation Software: Proficiency in creating and delivering presentations using tools like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is important for sharing ideas and information visually.
- Social Media: Understanding how to use social media platforms for communication, networking, and marketing can be beneficial in many roles.
Advanced Computer Skills For Resumes
For those with a more technical background or seeking specialized roles, showcasing advanced computer skills can significantly enhance your resume.
These skills demonstrate your ability to handle complex tasks and sophisticated software. Here are some advanced computer skills to include:
- Programming Languages: Proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, C++, and SQL is essential for software development, data science, and IT roles.
- Database Management: Advanced knowledge of database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, or MongoDB is crucial for managing and analyzing large datasets.
- Data Analysis: Expertise in data analysis tools and software like R, SAS, Tableau, or Power BI can set you apart in data-driven roles.
- Network Configuration: Understanding how to configure and manage computer networks is vital for IT and network administration positions.
- Cybersecurity: Advanced skills in cybersecurity, including knowledge of firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, are critical for protecting organizational data.
- Cloud Computing: Experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure is important for roles that involve cloud infrastructure and services.
- Software Development: Proficiency in software development methodologies and tools, such as Agile, Scrum, and Git, is valuable for creating and managing software projects.
- System Administration: Advanced skills in system administration, including server management and scripting, are essential for maintaining IT infrastructure.
- Machine Learning: Knowledge of machine learning algorithms and frameworks, such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, is highly sought after in AI and data science roles.
- Virtualization: Experience with virtualization technologies like VMware or Hyper-V is important for roles that involve creating and managing virtual environments.
Software Skills for Resumes
Software skills are essential for performing various tasks in the workplace, from productivity to specialized functions.
Highlighting these skills on your resume can demonstrate your versatility and technical know-how. Here are some key software skills to include:
- Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is essential for many roles and showcases your ability to handle everyday office tasks.
- Google Workspace: Familiarity with Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail is important for collaboration and productivity, especially in cloud-based environments.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Experience with CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM is valuable for managing customer interactions and improving business relationships.
- Accounting Software: Knowledge of accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, or SAP is crucial for finance and accounting roles.
- Project Management Tools: Proficiency in project management software like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or JIRA is important for organizing and managing projects.
- Graphic Design Software: Skills in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign are essential for roles that involve creating visual content.
- Web Development Tools: Familiarity with web development software and frameworks, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React, is important for web development roles.
- Video Editing Software: Experience with video editing tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve is valuable for creating and editing video content.
- Data Analysis Software: Proficiency in data analysis tools like Excel (advanced functions), Tableau, or Power BI can enhance your ability to analyze and interpret data.
- Email Marketing Software: Knowledge of email marketing platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or Sendinblue is important for roles that involve creating and managing email campaigns.
Hardware Skills for Resume
While software skills are crucial, having a solid understanding of hardware can also be a significant asset.
Hardware skills demonstrate your ability to handle the physical components of computers and networks. Here are some key hardware skills to include on your resume:
- Hardware Installation: Experience in installing and configuring computer hardware, including CPUs, RAM, hard drives, and peripherals.
- Network Setup: Skills in setting up and managing network hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, are essential for IT roles.
- Troubleshooting: The ability to diagnose and repair hardware issues, including identifying faulty components and performing replacements or upgrades.
- System Assembly: Experience in assembling computer systems from scratch, including selecting compatible components and building custom PCs.
- Peripheral Devices: Knowledge of installing and configuring peripheral devices like printers, scanners, and external storage.
- Server Management: Skills in managing server hardware, including installation, configuration, and maintenance of server systems.
- Cabling and Wiring: Experience in setting up and organizing network cabling and wiring, ensuring efficient and reliable connectivity.
- Storage Solutions: Knowledge of various storage solutions, including SSDs, HDDs, NAS, and RAID configurations, is important for data storage and management roles.
- Mobile Devices: Proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, can be valuable in support and IT roles.
- Security Devices: Understanding of hardware security devices, such as biometric scanners and security cameras, is crucial for roles that involve ensuring physical security.
By including these skills on your resume, you can demonstrate a well-rounded technical proficiency that encompasses both software and hardware expertise. This can make you a more attractive candidate for a wide range of roles!
Computer Skills With Free Resume Examples
If you’re still uncertain about how to feature technology skills on your resume, it can help to look at computer skills on resume examples for inspiration.
Here are a few sample resumes that include computer skills. Browse through them to get ideas for your own document.
For more guidance, check out our library of professional resume examples. We have both free and premium samples for almost every job type.
Computer Skills for Your Resume: Key Tips
When displaying computer skills on your resume, keep the following guidelines in mind:
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Use keywords from the job description to describe your computer skills. This will ensure your resume is optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
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Tailor your resume to the role you’re applying for and only highlight computer skills that appear in the job ad.
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Be as specific as possible – don’t only mention computer skills in the broad sense; list software programs and digital tools you know how to use.
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Indicate your level of competence in each computer skill with graphics, like a progress bar.
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If you’ve developed certain computer skills through accredited courses or certifications, include these in your resume education section as evidence of your abilities.
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Limit your resume skills section to a maximum of eight job-relevant skills in a bulleted list.
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If appropriate for the job, consider creating a subsection under your skills section for technical/software knowledge.
Where To List Computer Skills On A Resume
You should ideally showcase your job-relevant skills throughout your resume. But there are three sections where you can really make your computer skills shine.
1) Summary Statement
Perched at the top of your resume below your contact information, your summary statement serves as your opening pitch. It offers a brief overview of your most notable competencies and accomplishments to convince hiring managers that you are a perfect fit for the role.
Needless to say, it’s an ideal place to highlight two or three key computer skills that are central to the job. See how this resume summary example for a marketing manager showcases computer skills and backs them up with evidence.
“Expert marketing manager with over seven years of experience in developing and executing effective marketing strategies. Successfully leveraged SEO, web analytics and email marketing skills to drive brand awareness, increase website traffic and boost conversions by 27%. Results-oriented professional with strong leadership abilities, dedicated to driving business growth.”
2) Professional Skills
Your resume skills section is an obvious place to call attention to computer skills. But don’t include every computer-related competency you have; only highlight the most pertinent in a simple bulleted list that’s easy to scan.
If you’re only listing one or two computer skills on your resume, include them under a general “Skills” header. Alternatively, create a separate subheader for “Technical Skills” or “Software Skills”.
To show your level of proficiency in each skill, you can either include descriptors like “basic,” “intermediate” and “advanced” in parentheses or incorporate a visual rating system, such as progress bars.Here’s an example of a skills section for a software engineer that features computer skills:
Skills
Professional
- Troubleshooting
- Communication
- Time management
- Solutions brainstorming
Technical
- Debugging
- Database handling
- Operating systems: Windows, iOS, Unix, Linux
- Programming: Python, SQL, Java, C++, HTML, PHP
3) Work History
Your work experience section is a great place to spotlight computer skills. Here you have the chance to show how you applied these skills in past and current positions to perform duties and achieve results.
The following is an example of computer skills on the resume of a project manager, brought to life with colorful descriptions in their work history section.
Senior Project Manager
03/2019 to 08/2022
ABC Co. New York, NY
- Leveraged Wrike to streamline project timelines, resource allocation and task assignments.
- Utilized advanced Microsoft Excel skills to develop and maintain comprehensive project budgets, resulting in greater financial control and cost savings of 12%.
- Initiated the use of online collaboration tools (Slack and Trello) to facilitate seamless communication and task management among remote teams, leading to an 18% increase in productivity.
How To List Computer Skills On A Resume
As you’ve probably seen by now, a dry list of computer skills on your resume isn’t sufficient. Hiring managers want to see evidence of your computer skills – proof that you’ve applied them in the past successfully enough to bring about desired results.
For this reason, the most effective and memorable way to list computer skills on your resume is to tie them to professional accomplishments. Ideally, you also want to quantify these achievements to show measurable impact. This involves highlighting ways you drew on your skills to add value – to boost productivity, reduce costs, save time or grow revenue, for example – using numbers and metrics.
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Skill: Spreadsheets
- Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by using advanced Excel formulas and functions, such as VLOOKUP and PivotTables, resulting in a 21% reduction in data errors.
- Managed and organized a complex database of 5,000 client records using Google Sheets, enabling seamless access for team members and improving collaboration and client service.
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Skill: Content Management
- Developed a comprehensive content management strategy using WordPress as a CMS, resulting in a 45% increase in website traffic and a 20% boost in organic search rankings within six months.
- Managed and maintained a robust online content library of over 400 articles on Drupal, ensuring adherence to SEO best practices. Increased organic traffic by 14% and decreased bounce rate by 33%.
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Skill: Data Visualization
- Developed interactive data visualizations for the company’s annual report, resulting in a 35% improvement in data comprehension among stakeholders.
- Designed and presented visually compelling dashboards using Tableau, showcasing key performance indicators to the leadership team, resulting in a 22% reduction in decision-making time.
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Skill: Enterprise Systems
- Introduced the use of Oracle as an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to streamline logistics, leading to a 41% increase in operational efficiency and a 10% decrease in inventory holding costs.
- Led the successful migration of customer relationship management (CRM) data from legacy systems to Salesforce, yielding a 27% increase in customer retention.
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Skill: Presentations
- Designed and delivered over 20 multimedia presentations using OpenOffice Impress, leading to a 32% improvement in information retention, as measured by post-presentation surveys.
- Built a comprehensive slide library featuring over 100 templates in PowerPoint, reducing presentation creation time by 25% and enhancing brand consistency across the organization.
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Skill: Hardware Knowledge
- Upgraded 100+ workstations and servers with the latest hardware components, leading to a 35% reduction in system downtime.
- Optimized network performance by 60% through expert configuration and management of Cisco routers and switches, making the workflow significantly more efficient.
3 Ways To Improve Computer Skills
What if you don’t have the computer skills stipulated in the job description? Or your current proficiency level isn’t where it should be?
Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to build new computer skills or sharpen existing ones. There are several different routes you can take:
1) Take an online course.
The e-learning world abounds with courses covering various computer skills. And the good news is, many of them only span a few weeks or months and some are even free. Plus, you can learn at your own pace, in your own time.
Here are a few popular online learning platforms offering heaps of computer- and software-related courses:
- Coursera. Course examples: “Introduction to Computers and Office Productivity Software”; “Operating Systems and You: Becoming a Power User”; “Increase SEO Traffic with WordPress”
- LinkedIn Learning. Course examples: “Excel: Lookup Functions in Depth”; “Outlook: Efficient Email Management”; “JavaScript Essential Training”
- Udemy. Course examples: “Deep Dives — Google Cloud Storage”; “The Social Media Marketing & Management Masterclass 2023”; “Adobe Photoshop CC – Essentials Training Course”
- Skillshare. Class examples: “Getting Started with Spreadsheets – Google Sheets”; “Artificial Intelligence for Beginners: Tools to Learn Machine Learning”; “SQL 101: Databases for Beginners”
Many software companies and technology corporations also offer online training and certifications for their own products. Examples include Google, Microsoft, Salesforce and Hubspot.
2) Teach yourself.
With so many free online resources out there, it’s possible to teach yourself basic computer skills with a bit of effort. There are many YouTube video tutorials you can draw on to learn anything from Microsoft Office basics to SEO best practices. And after that, practice (and experimentation) make perfect.
3) Join a tech community.
Becoming a member of a local tech community can be an effective way of building new computer skills for your resume while also expanding your network. These communities often arrange workshops, meetups and even hackathons that encourage joint learning and skill development.
They are also a good way to connect with experienced professionals and potentially find a mentor who’s willing to teach you a thing or two. Plus, coding competitions and similar events give you a chance to work on real-world projects that can accelerate the learning process and hone your skills.
Key Takeaways
- Depending on your job title, top computer skills for your resume could include basic skills, like word processing and email communication, or advanced skills, such as programming and machine learning.
- Computer skills are best highlighted in three different parts of your resume: the summary statement, the skills section and the work history section.
- To showcase computer skills effectively, provide evidence of how you’ve applied them in the past to achieve measurable results. Use numbers and metrics for added impact.
- Online courses are an excellent way to build new computer skills for your resume.
- Resume examples can offer guidance and inspiration if you’re unsure how to list computer skills for your job title.
Pro Tip:
Your resume must be customized for the job at hand and feature only relevant computer skills.
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FAQ
Updated: May 30, 2024
It’s important to only include job-relevant computer skills on your resume. Carefully review the job description and make a note of all the required software and computer skills. Then write a list of all of your computer and technology-related proficiencies. Draw parallels between the two lists and only feature skills that appear on both in your resume.
Basic computer skills are the fundamental abilities and knowledge required to operate and navigate a computer system effectively. They are essential for the performance of common tasks like sending an email, writing a document, browsing the internet and saving files. Most job candidates today have some basic computer skills.
This term refers to your proficiency in a specific skill – in other words, how well you’ve mastered that particular competency. You might be an expert at Microsoft Word but only have intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel, for example. Skill levels are often indicated on resumes with the words “fundamental”, “basic,” “intermediate” and “advanced” or with graphic elements called skill bars.
You can start by listing job-relevant computer skills in your resume in a bulleted list in your skills section. But you’ll have to do more than this. To impress hiring managers, describe your skills by linking them to quantifiable accomplishments. In other words, detail how you’ve used them in the past to add measurable value to an employer and include numbers and metrics to make your impact tangible. We included several examples of how to do this effectively in this guide.
A Resume Builder will offer you step-by-step guidance on how to fill out every part of your resume, including your skills section. It will suggest prewritten phrases, duties and achievements based on your job title, thereby doing a lot of the work for you.
If you’ve forgotten to include certain job-relevant computer skills, you’ll be prompted to list them. The expert recommendations will also help you successfully craft the wording of your summary statement and work history section.
Finally, a builder will present you with a wide selection of professionally designed resume templates that can help your skills stand out.
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