In today's digital world, computer skills aren't just nice to have; they're your ticket to success in navigating a competitive job market. In this guide, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and skills to showcase your tech skills and stand out from the crowd.
We'll navigate the ever-evolving landscape of computer skills, providing insider tips on what to highlight, where to refine, and how to tailor your CV to impress employers. From highlighting key software skills to showcasing your social media savviness, we’ll help ensure your CV speaks volumes about your digital capabilities.
What are computer skills?
Computer skills refer to the ability to effectively use and navigate various digital technologies and software applications. These technical skills encompass various tasks, from basic skills like sending emails and browsing the Internet to more advanced proficiencies such as programming, data analysis, and graphic design.
Effective computer skills are key to navigating the modern world. They influence everything from how we communicate and work to how we express our creativity and solve problems.
Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, it’s essential to include relevant computer skills on a CV to help capture the attention of employers. From collaborating seamlessly with colleagues on cloud-based platforms to harnessing data analytics for smarter business decisions, these skills are woven into the fabric of the modern workplace.
Professional tip
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter through the CVs they receive efficiently. To ensure your CV reaches a human recruiter, it’s essential to optimise your CV for the ATS. Be sure to carefully read the job description and incorporate keywords such as essential skills and software naturally throughout your CV.
Where to include computer skills on a CV:
The most common and effective place to showcase your computer skills is in a dedicated "Skills" section on your CV. Highlighting your computer skills in this section allows you to present a concise and organised list of your proficiencies, making it easy for potential employers to assess your skills quickly.
For instance, in the “Skills” section of your CV, you could list software proficiencies such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, or specific project management tools. You can also include programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. You can also highlight specialised technical skills relevant to your field, such as data analysis, web development, or cybersecurity.
Additionally, you can strategically integrate your computer skills into other sections of your CV, including your employment history section. In this section, showcase specific instances where you utilised particular software or technical skills to achieve successful outcomes. Always use numbers, data and statistics where possible to help substantiate your claims. For example: “Developed a user-friendly website using HTML and CSS, increasing online sales by 15%."
Similarly, in your education or certifications section, list any relevant courses or programs demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning and upskilling in the digital realm. This could include online courses, workshops, or certifications in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, or digital marketing.
Update your skills regularly. Technology is constantly evolving, so it’s important to keep your CV updated with your latest skills and proficiencies.
List outdated skills. Avoid mentioning software or technologies no longer widely used in the industry.
100+ computer skills to include on a CV:
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of over 100+ computer skills to include on a CV. Remember to focus on the skills most relevant to the specific job you're applying for and to represent your proficiency level accurately.
Basic Computer Skills
Basic computer skills unlock the digital world, equipping individuals with the ability to operate a computer, navigate its interface, and harness the power of essential software.
Core computer skills include:
- File management: Efficient organisation and navigation of files and folders, ensuring easy access and retrieval of information.
- Microsoft Office and Google Workspace: Proficiency in essential productivity tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and cloud storage.
- Operating system knowledge: Proficiency in navigating and utilising popular operating systems such as Windows and macOS.
- Printing & scanning: Proficiency in using printers and scanners to produce hard copies of documents and digitise physical materials.
- Research skills: Effectively searching and evaluating information online, utilising and assessing various sources.
- Typing: Accurate and efficient typing skills, contributing to productivity and professionalism in written communication.
Example
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Experienced in using Google Workspace for collaboration and document management.
- Skilled in conducting online research and evaluating information sources.
Software Skills
Software skills encompass a broad range of skills related to specific software applications, programming languages, and data analysis tools.
Relevant software skills to include in your CV include:
- Cloud computing: Showcases knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud for storage, computing, and application deployment.
- Database management: Demonstrates the ability to design, implement, and manage databases using tools like MySQL, Oracle, or Microsoft SQL Server.
- Data science and analysis: Highly valuable across various industries, showcasing the ability to collect, analyse, and interpret data using tools like Excel, SQL, and Tableau.
- Design skills: In demand for creating engaging content, highlighting proficiency in graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
- Programming and development: Crucial for creating software, websites, and mobile applications, demonstrating expertise in languages like Python, Java, JavaScript and C#.
- Software testing: Highlights the ability to identify and resolve software defects, ensuring high-quality and reliable software products.
- Video editing skills: Includes experience with software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro.
- Web development: Essential for building and maintaining websites, showcasing expertise in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Example
- Developed a web application using Python and Django framework.
- Analysed customer data using SQL to identify sales trends and opportunities.
- Created engaging social media graphics using Adobe Photoshop.
Hardware Skills
Hardware skills involve understanding and working with the physical components of computer systems. They are essential for troubleshooting, maintenance, and upgrades.
Essential hardware skills to incorporate in your CV include:
- Component identification: Foundational for hardware-related roles, illustrating knowledge of core components like CPU and RAM.
- Data recovery and backup skills: Includes knowledge of data recovery techniques and backup solutions to protect valuable information in case of hardware failure.
- Diagnostics skills: Critical for technical positions, emphasising problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve hardware malfunctions.
- Hardware inventory management: Showcases organisational skills in tracking and managing hardware assets, ensuring efficient inventory control and reducing costs.
- Maintenance skills: Crucial for ensuring system longevity and performance, highlighting proactive approaches to hardware upkeep and optimisation.
- Networking: Relevant for IT and network administration, showcasing understanding of network setup, connectivity, and troubleshooting.
- Peripheral device management: Expertise in installing, configuring, and troubleshooting peripheral devices like printers, scanners, and external hard drives.
- Repair skills: Valuable across IT and technical roles, this skill demonstrates the ability to diagnose and fix hardware issues, saving time and resources.
- System configuration skills: The ability to fine-tune hardware settings and software configurations for optimal performance and stability.
- Upgrades and installations: These skills are especially useful in IT and tech support. They include installing new hardware and upgrading existing systems.
Example
- Diagnosed and repaired hardware issues, reducing system downtime by 20%.
- Upgraded computer systems with new RAM and SSD, resulting in a 30% performance increase.
- Set up and configured a wireless network for a small office.
Social media has become an integral part of our lives. It's where we connect with friends and family, stay informed about current events, and discover new brands and products. For businesses and individuals alike, having a strong social media presence is crucial for success.
Related social media skills to include on your CV include:
- Calendar management: Planning and scheduling social media content.
- Data analysis skills: Utilising built-in analytics tools to gain insights into audience and content performance
- Community management: Building and nurturing relationships with followers, engaging in conversations, responding to comments, and fostering a sense of community.
- Content creation: Especially helpful for careers in marketing, content creation skills include crafting compelling posts, images, and videos that resonate with target audiences.
- Copywriting: Writing clear, concise, and persuasive captions that drive engagement.
- Crisis management skills: Handling and mitigating negative situations or public relations issues on social media, protecting the brand's reputation.
- Data tracking: Monitoring key metrics like reach, engagement, and conversions.
- Influencer marketing: Identifying and collaborating with influencers to promote a brand, product, or service, reaching a wider audience.
- Knowledge of Content Management Systems (CMS): Experience with popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, or Joomla for creating and managing website content.
- Moderation skills: Monitoring and managing conversations to maintain a positive and inclusive online community.
- Social media advertising: Understanding and executing paid social media campaigns, including targeting, ad creation, and performance analysis.
Example
- Increased organic reach by 40% through strategic content planning and visual storytelling on Instagram.
- Curated engaging content for a brand's social media channels, resulting in a 25% increase in website traffic.
- Tracked and reported on social media KPIs, providing actionable insights to improve overall performance.
The internet has revolutionised communication, collaboration, and information sharing. Proficiency in various internet tools is essential for staying connected and productive in the digital world.
Key internet tools to showcase on your CV include:
- Blogging: Creating engaging and informative blog posts, optimising content for search engines (SEO), and fostering audience interaction.
- Cloud storage: Using cloud platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive for file storage and sharing.
- Communication skills: Email, messaging apps, video conferencing, and project management tools facilitate seamless communication and teamwork.
- Cybersecurity skills: Knowledge of online safety practices, including password management, identifying phishing scams, and protecting sensitive information.
- Email management skills: Efficiently managing inboxes, utilising filters and folders for organisation, and crafting professional emails.
- Online collaboration tools: Proficiency in using tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Project management tools: Experience with platforms like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com to collaborate, track progress, and manage tasks effectively.
- SEO skills: Understanding SEO principles to improve website visibility and organic search rankings.
- Video conferencing: Proficiency in tools like Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams.
- Video creation and editing: Producing and editing videos for various platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, and social media.
Example
- Increased blog traffic by 30% through SEO optimisation and content marketing.
- Managed social media presence for a small business, resulting in a 20% increase in followers.
- Streamlined team communication and project management using Slack, resulting in a 25% increase in productivity.
Key Takeaways
Remember, your CV is more than just a list of past jobs. A strong CV will highlight your skills and strengths in the workplace. Highlighting the most relevant computer skills on a CV is essential in making a strong impression on employers.
The key is not just listing skills but demonstrating how you've utilised them to achieve tangible results. Use action verbs, quantify your accomplishments, and weave your technical abilities throughout your CV to help create a successful CV.
Alongside our customisable CV examples and online CV builder, it’s now easier than ever to create an impressive CV that gets you noticed faster. Ka pai, you’ve got this!
