How To Describe Computer Skills on a Resume

Including relevant computer skills on your resume can help set you apart from other candidates. However, it is not enough to simply list the software and technologies you are familiar with; you need to demonstrate your computer skills in a way that confirms your expertise.

Here is how to describe computer skills on a resume:

What are Computer Skills?

Computer skills, or being tech-savvy, encompasses your ability to use computers and related technology, including software programs, operating systems, and hardware.

Almost every industry requires employees to have some level of computer proficiency. For some roles, relevant computer skills might be navigating a customer relationship management (CRM) system or accurate data entry into an accounting system. For others, more advanced skills will be required, such as programming languages, network administration, and database management.

Other Ways to Say ‘Computer Skills’ on your Resume

How To Describe Computer Skills on a Resume

To demonstrate your computer skills on your resume, you need to use several techniques in combination.

At a minimum, a ‘computer skills’ section, and then within your achievement and responsibility content, you should include specific examples of how you have used these skills.

By taking this approach, you not only highlight your proficiency with specific software and tools but also demonstrate how you have applied these skills to make tangible contributions in previous roles. This can help prospective employers better understand the value you bring to their organisation and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Other techniques for demonstrating your computer skills on your resume include listing technology-related professional development in your education section, linking to an online portfolio, testimonials with reference to your technical literacy, and links to online technology proficiency test results.

In summary, you should use a combination of these strategies for demonstrating your computer or technical skills on your resume:

• Include a ‘computer skills’ section
• Incorporate specific examples of how you have used these skills within your achievement and responsibility content
• List technology-related professional development in the education and qualifications section
• Link to an online portfolio to demonstrate the practical application of your skills
• Include testimonials that highlight your technical literacy
• Provide links to online technology proficiency test results

Computer Skill Section

Frequently overlooked and neglected is the computer skills section of a resume. While job seekers invest time and effort in perfecting their work experience and education sections, the computer skills section is often an afterthought, if it is included at all. Unfortunately, when it is included, it is often done poorly. For example:

The biggest mistake of this computer skill section is listing basic computer skills such as Microsoft Word. Most people today are familiar with MS Word, Outlook or similar. To set yourself apart, you must go beyond simply listing standard software.

Additionally, to give employers a clearer idea of your level of proficiency, you could use a proficiency scale such as beginner, intermediate, or advanced.

A caution, though, on proficiency scales: Overall, while proficiency scales can offer a general indication of your skill level, they may not accurately reflect your true capabilities and could potentially limit your opportunities. It will always be more effective to provide specific examples of how you have used your skills and let your experiences speak for themselves.

Example Computer Skills Sections

📌Advanced knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator)
📌Familiarity with project management software such as Trello and Asana
📌Skilled in programming languages such as Java and Python
📌Experience with database management systems such as MySQL and Oracle
📌Proficient in using CRM software such as Salesforce and HubSpot
📌Expertise in cloud computing platforms Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure
📌Skilled in using analytics tools such as Google Analytics and Tableau
📌Knowledgeable in cybersecurity tools and techniques, including firewall configuration
📌Comfortable using both Windows and Mac operating systems

Applications: Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Sketch, Figma, Tableau, Salesforce, HubSpot, QuickBooks, Zoom, Slack, Trello, Asana, Monday.com
Programming Languages: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, PHP, Python, Ruby, Java, C++, Swift, Objective-C
Frameworks: React, Angular, Vue, Laravel, Ruby on Rails, Django, Flask
Databases: MySQL, Oracle, MongoDB, SQL Server, PostgreSQL
Operating Systems: Windows 10, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Cloud Services: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
Methodologies: Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, Kanban, Lean, DevOps
Demonstrated Knowledge: Full-stack development, Front-end development, Back-end development, API integration, Database management, Network administration, IT security, Project management, Quality assurance, UX/UI design, Data analysis, Machine learning, Artificial intelligence.

If your computer skills section, as above, is extensive, it is a good idea to break it down into subheadings. This will help present your skills in a clear and organised manner.

Alternative Titles for the Computer Skills Section of Resume

• Technical Proficiencies
• Digital Skills
• Software Knowledge
• Technology Competencies
• IT Skills
• Programming Languages
• Digital Literacy
• Information Technology Expertise

Note: Don’t get too creative. The ATS may not accurately scan and interpret the information in this section if you do not use a standard heading.

Computer Skills in Your Achievement Stories

Alongside simply listing your computer skills, you should provide context around your computer skills, such as the type of projects or tasks you have completed and where you have used your technical literacy to achieve a meaningful outcome.

Here are some example achievement stories that showcase computer skills:

Administrative Assistant:

• Maintained company databases using Microsoft Excel, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for 50+ employees and clients

Marketing Coordinator:

• Utilised Adobe Creative Suite to design and launch email marketing campaigns that achieved a 30% increase in click-through rates.

Sales Representative:

• Leveraged Salesforce CRM to track customer interactions and analyze sales trends, resulting in a 15% increase in monthly revenue.

Web Developer:

• Designed and developed responsive website layouts using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, resulting in a 20% increase in website traffic.

Data Analyst:

• Conducted data analysis using SQL and Python to identify customer behaviour patterns, resulting in a 10% increase in customer retention rates.

IT Support Specialist:

• Provided technical support for software applications and hardware issues for 100+ employees, resulting in a 90% reduction in ticket resolution time.

Project Manager:

• Utilised project management software such as Jira and Asana to track project progress and collaborate with team members, resulting in a 25% reduction in project completion time.

Social Media Manager:

• Developed and executed social media strategies using Hootsuite and Buffer, resulting in a 50% increase in social media followers and engagement.

Graphic Designer:

• Created visually appealing marketing materials using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, resulting in a 15% increase in customer engagement.

Accountant:

• Managed financial data using QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel, resulting in a 95% accuracy rate and timely delivery of financial reports to management.

Other Evidence

Testimonial

Testimonials are statements from previous employers, colleagues, or clients that vouch for your skills, experience, and character. By including a testimonial on your resume, you provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments and abilities, which can help you stand out from other candidates.

Here is one for a Marketing Coordination, with a focus on computer skills:

Example 1

“James’ proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite has been instrumental in our team’s success. He consistently delivers high-quality graphics and designs that align with our brand image and messaging. His attention to detail and ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines have been invaluable to our team’s productivity. James’ technical skills in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are second to none, and he has been instrumental in developing our digital marketing campaigns. I would highly recommend James for any role requiring graphic design and digital marketing expertise. He is an asset to any team.”
-Sally Lee, Marketing Manager at XYZ Company

This one showcases the IT Support Team member’s technical skills:

Example 2

“Anna has been an invaluable member of our IT support team, consistently demonstrating deep technical expertise in a range of software and hardware applications. Her ability to troubleshoot complex issues and provide quick and effective solutions has been critical in maintaining the productivity and efficiency of our employees. Anna deeply understands networking protocols, operating systems, and security software and is adept at configuring and maintaining these systems to ensure optimal performance. Her proficiency with tools such as Active Directory, PowerShell, and Microsoft Exchange has allowed us to streamline our IT operations and minimise downtime. In addition to her technical skills, Anna is an excellent communicator and collaborator, always willing to go above and beyond to help her colleagues. I highly recommend Anna for any role that requires a skilled and dedicated IT professional.”
-Sarah Smith, Director of IT at ABC Company

Links to Website or Portfolio

Adding links to your website or portfolio on your resume is an excellent way to showcase your technical skills to potential employers. If you have a website or portfolio demonstrating your technical abilities, including a link on your resume can provide employers with a more in-depth understanding of your expertise.

For example, if you are a web developer, including a link to your portfolio website can give employers a chance to see examples of your work and your level of proficiency with different programming languages and frameworks.

Similarly, if you are a graphic designer, a link to your online portfolio can show your design skills and proficiency with graphic design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite. By providing these links, you can help employers see the full range of your technical abilities and make a more informed decision about your qualifications for the role.

Online Tests

Online tests can demonstrate your proficiency with a particular software or tool and add credibility to your technical skills. Including your results on your resume can provide employers with an objective measure of your capabilities, especially for roles that require specific software expertise.

However, it’s crucial to use reputable tests within your industry and supplement your results with other evidence of your technical abilities, such as work experience or certifications.

LinkedIn, for example, offers a variety of free online assessments for technical skills such as software development, data analysis, and digital marketing. These assessments are designed to validate and showcase your skills to potential employers.

In summary

1. Be specific: Instead of simply listing generic software titles, provide specific examples of how you have used those programs to achieve specific results.
2. Use a proficiency scale: To give employers a clearer idea of your level of proficiency, use a proficiency scale such as beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
3. Tailor your skills to the job: Research the specific job requirements and tailor your computer skills section to highlight the skills that are most relevant to the job.
4. Highlight technical skills: If you have technical skills such as coding or database management, include them in your computer skills section.
5. Provide context: Provide context around your computer skills, such as the type of projects or tasks you have completed or any certifications or training you have completed.