Basic computer skills are not only expected at work; they are important for the day-to-day in most jobs.
In some work environments, the required skills may be as basic as sending emails or using a cash register. For other positions, it is necessary to include specific, more technical programs, such as Adobe Photoshop or Microsoft PowerPoint, when listing computer skills on a resume.
We’re going to help you by outlining what computer skills to put on your resume, showing you how to highlight them, and giving tips on how to upskill in tech when needed.
Computer Skills Examples
In today’s technology-driven world, you must have ample computer skills for your resume.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but take a moment and ask yourself: What are computer skills? What computer skills do I have?
The following list includes many of the most in-demand computer skills of today’s job market, from the basic foundational skills to more advanced areas of expertise.
Basic computer skills
Basic computer skills are foundational abilities associated with using a computer and related technology.
This may include familiarity with operating systems like Windows or macOS, finding and saving files, browsing the internet, using email, and basic software applications like Microsoft Word.
Productivity software
Your software skills are built directly on your basic computer skills.
Typical productivity software includes word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, spreadsheets like Excel or Google Sheets, various email clients, and other project management tools.
Communication and collaboration tools
For the most part, the above skills involve using the computer by yourself; communication and collaboration tools connect you with others.
We mentioned the most basic tools already: email platforms such as Gmail or your company email. Others include instant messaging apps like Slack, video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, or document-sharing tools such as OneDrive or Google Drive.
Presentation software
These software skills will enable you to share ideas through visual presentations that can include animations, images, embedded videos, and diagrams.
PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Apple Keynote are examples of popular presentation software that you can include to strengthen the list of computer programs on your resume.
Digital marketing computer skills
If you use social media, you’ve probably picked up a few digital marketing skills.
To manage digital marketing at work, you’ll need to be proficient at using content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress, email marketing software like Constant Contact or Mailchimp, and tools such as Google Analytics.
You should also understand the basics of search engine optimization (SEO).
Programming and development
Once you’ve mastered using computer tools, you might move into writing the programs that businesses need.
To write computer programs or build apps and websites from the ground up, you must understand common programming languages such as JavaScript, Java, C++, and Python.
You should also be proficient in using databases, understanding coding frameworks, and applying the principles of software development.
Graphic design
Graphic design is intrinsically linked to digital marketing, as most campaigns are visual in nature.
You should be able to use Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Publisher, or other platforms to create ad copy, logos, brochures, and even entire web pages.
Infrastructure and administration skills
As you move into highly technical positions, you will need a deep knowledge of the underlying systems that enable computing environments to exist–the hardware, software, operating systems, and networks.
Specific skills include information technology (IT) management, server management, troubleshooting, and network configuration.
Database management
Big business relies on big data. Database management involves designing, implementing, and maintaining databases. You may be called upon to collect, structure, clean, retrieve, and store data using database systems such as Oracle, MySQL, or Microsoft SQL.
Cybersecurity
Data, networks, and systems are constantly threatened by unauthorized access or attack. In a 2024 report by Pluralsight, cybersecurity was listed as number 1 in their list of skills gaps reported by executives and technologists.
Your knowledge of firewalls, antivirus software, secure coding practices, encryption, and general cybersecurity hygiene is essential to protecting any business.
How To List Computer Skills on Your Resume
It is important to highlight computer skills on your resume by including a skills section. It should be in a prominent place on your resume to grab the employer’s attention. You can simply list the programs or include your ability level (beginner, intermediate, advanced, etc.).
You don’t need to include all your computer skills, only the ones which the employer is looking for. How will you know what they are looking for? Carefully read the job posting, noting mentions of specific programs or skills. Include as many as you can in your resume.
However, if a job requires an extensive list of skills central to the position, you should add a specific ‘Computer Skills’ section on your resume to give it prominence.
Include computer skills in your work experience
Another option is to add computer skills to your work experience section (or other parts) of your resume. You can write short, bulleted sentences that demonstrate your abilities and show what you have achieved.
For example, you could use phrases similar to the following.
Designed and maintained the company website using WordPress, optimizing SEO and UX, which led to a 20% increase in engagement and consistently attracted 2,500+ daily visitors.
Created and delivered professional presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint, providing clear, data-driven updates to 300+ clients and stakeholders, improving information retention and decision-making efficiency.
Managed and optimized a customer database of 10,000+ records using SQL, improving query response times by 35% and enhancing data retrieval efficiency for the support team.
Automated data entry processes using Microsoft Excel macros, reducing manual input time by 40% and increasing data accuracy by 25%.
Remember, many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for keywords and phrases that reflect the job requirements. If your resume doesn’t contain enough of these keywords, the ATS will eliminate it from the application process.
Many candidates use resume templates, as they allow you to rapidly edit your resume and tailor its contents to each job you apply for.
Using a resume builder is a quick way of producing well-structured, attractive resumes. It also allows you to easily build in the specific skill set for each job application. To help you highlight your skills effectively, ResumeCoach’s AI resume maker’s skills generator is designed to recognize and recommend the most relevant skills for your intended position.
How to Improve Your Computer Skills
Now that you know how to demonstrate your computer skills, you may be wondering if you have enough mastery of technology. If you sense the need to upskill, that’s okay. You can easily make improving your computer skills a part of your daily life with the following tips.
Stay up-to-date
Technology evolves at a rapid pace; there is always something new to discover. If you don’t particularly enjoy using computers and similar devices, keeping up-to-date with the latest technology can seem like a chore.
It is important, however. Even a basic proficiency with computers and smartphones will place you miles ahead of someone who is afraid to touch a computer or can’t complete basic tasks.
You don’t have to run out and buy every new product to hit the market but try to update your personal devices every three to five years. Try out new apps and programs. Read about tech in the news and talk to people who are enthusiastic about technology.
Take classes
Taking classes is one of the easiest and most fundamental ways to improve your computer skills. Many of these are free and you can study from the comfort of your home.
For example, check out the online classes offered by Coursera and Universal Class. You can start with fundamentals, focus on specific programs, or even begin learning to code. Also, look for in-person classes hosted locally by libraries and community centers.
Speaking of programs, most software and cloud service providers also offer free training on their websites. This may be in written or video format. You can also Google questions you have to read informative articles or watch YouTube videos produced by skilled users.
If you need to specialize, you can seek out certifications. You will likely have to pay to complete these programs, but then you can list your certifications on your resume.
Certifications make you stand out as an expert with specific skills and may lead to a new hire or a promotion.
Finally, if you have a deep interest in computer technology, consider pursuing a degree in computer science (CS), information technology (IT), software engineering (SE), cybersecurity, computer engineering, data science and analytics, information systems, artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI and ML), game development, interactive media, network engineering, or cloud computing.
Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees are attainable in these subjects.
Play
Another way to improve your computer skills is just to play. It is an often-repeated sentiment: “You’re not going to break it; just click around.” In fact, this is how the young children learn–the same young children whom we marvel at their computer proficiency.
Choose programs or apps that you like, such as games, photo editors, or social media.
Build Your Own Computer
Understanding the hardware components and components of a computer–and how they work together to produce results–can give you deeper insights into computer science. You can make it a personal project to build your own computer or get a knowledgeable acquaintance to help you.
If you don’t feel like you’re ready to start from scratch, you can purchase an upgradable laptop or PC and replace specific components over time.
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