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Boost Your Profile: Important Computer Skills to List on Your Resume

Discover what software skills to put on your resume and navigate the job market with confidence.

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?

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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
• 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.

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:

• Google Hangouts
• Microsoft Teams

#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:

#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
• Google Sheets

#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
• 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

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 .

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How to List Computer Skills on a Resume (Computer Skill Examples)

This article breaks down how to list computer skills in a resume using real resume examples. For other professional skills, check out this  article on how to include 50+ examples of skills on a resume . 

In today’s information and technology age, it’s no surprise that job seekers with strong computer skills land far more jobs than those who don’t. From laptops to POS systems and from RFID scanners to mobile phones, almost every job today requires you to work hand-and-hand with technology.

To make sure you have the computer skills on your resume that hiring managers are looking for, this guide will walk you through how to add the right computer skills, plus 50+ computer skill examples.

This resume writing article will cover:

• What Are Computer Skills? And Why Are Computer Skills Important?
• Types of Computer Skills
• Levels of Computer Skill Proficiency
• Where and How to Incorporate Computer Skills On Your Resume
• Top 50+ Computer Skills Hiring Managers Look for On Resumes
• The Fastest Ways to Acquire New Computer Skills

What Are Computer Skills? Why Are Computer Skills Important?

Computer skills are the ability to utilize computers and technology efficiently.

With the rise of technology, the computer skills you have can set you apart when applying for a new job. When you think about it, there are seldom positions that remain free from technology. Even trades that traditionally didn’t require computers, like farming, landscaping, and handymen, now use technology for marketing, accounting, and reservations.

Every professional position requires the use of certain technology, ranging from hardware to computer applications. Likewise, every professional has a unique set of computer skills with varying levels of proficiency. Finding the perfect fit between what’s needed and what someone has is the sole mission of a hiring managers when looking for a new employee. If the hiring manager is able to find someone that has all of the computer skills necessary, they won’t need to spend so much time and money on training, which means they will get a quicker return on their hiring investment.

But how can hiring managers tell if you have the computer skills needed for their role?

First and foremost, hiring managers will look at your resume. Typically, hiring managers spend no more than 6 seconds reviewing a resume and during that time they are looking to see if the computer skills needed jump out.

As a job seeker, it is your responsibility to know what computer skills are necessary for each role. It is also your responsibility to put those computer skills on your resume in a way that stands out.

Types of Computer Skills (Resume Examples)

Computer skills can be broken down into categories and levels of proficiency. Before we discuss how to incorporate computer skills on your resume, let’s discover the basic computer skills categories and assess your level of proficiency.

Skill Categories

Computer skills can be broken down into 13 main categories.

Typing – The process of writing or inputting text, typically using a keyboard

Mouse – Navigating a two-dimensional surface with a pointer, using a standalone mouse, touchpad, or touchscreen

Internet – Using the internet to browse and research

Email – Using text to correspond with other users through the internet using an email application or browser

Hardware – The physical elements of technology, including keyboards, cases, cables, screens, and touchpads

Operating Systems – The critical, low-level software that supports all other applications

Word Processing – Using a text editing application, such as Notepad or Word, to write and modify text

Presentations – Creating engaging, visual presentations using applications like Prezi and PowerPoint

Graphics – Creating and manipulating visual elements

Multimedia – Using sound, images, and video to create multi-faceted elements

Spreadsheets – Using applications, such as Excel, to input, edit, calculate, and manipulate numbers and data

Databases – Storing numbers and data in a central location

Programming – Using programming languages to write, edit, and manipulate software applications

Levels of Proficiency

There are many assessments used in the job market to assess a candidate’s level of computer skill proficiency. One of the most widely used is the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools, also knows as ICAS. The ICAS Digital Technologies assessment assesses skills and knowledge in the above technology categories and then grades your level of proficiency using a letter rating between A and H.

The rating system most hiring managers are familiar with though is simply rating your computer skills as either fundamental, basic, intermediate, or advanced. We will go through each of these categories and will give examples of your expected knowledge for each.

Fundamental Computer Skills

Fundamental computer skills include typing and using a mouse. Possessing fundamental computer skills mean you have no to little computer experience or training. At a fundamental level of computer proficiency, you should be able to:

• Identify the basic components of a computer (keyboard, mouse, screen, etc.)
• Understand menu bars
• Create, save and delete documents
• Operate the print function
• Recognize icons (sound, internet, video, etc.)

Basic Computer Skills

One level up from fundamental proficiency is basic computer skills. Possessing basic computer skills requires a small amount of computer experience, including a basic understanding of email, word processing, graphics, and spreadsheets. At a basic level of computer proficiency, you should be able to:

• Write, modify, and edit text using a word processing application
• Create and format simple spreadsheets
• Create basic presentations
• Know how to forward and cc emails
• Understand how to search, assess search results, and download information from the internet

Intermediate Computer Skills

Intermediate computer skills build upon the basic level of proficiency. Intermediate computer skills require a moderate amount of previous computer experience, including a moderate understanding of operating systems, word processing, graphics, spreadsheets, and databases. At an intermediate level of computer proficiency, you should be able to:

• Understand operating systems
• Understand how to use flash drives and memory cards
• Know how to insert hyperlinks and tables on word processing applications
• Understand how to insert links and videos into presentations
• Know how to use CD, DVD, and mp3 players
• Modify your signature, recognize and sort spam, and recognize file formats when using email
• Conduct complex sorting, applying filters, and using different views on spreadsheets and databases

Advanced Computer Skills

The final level of proficiency is advanced computer skills. At this stage, you will be able to use word processing, email, the internet, and spreadsheets to their fullest capacity. You will also start to understand basic software development and programming principles. At an advanced level of computer proficiency, you should be able to:

• Understand computer hardware and software components
• Execute complex operations, formatting, and tables in word processing applications
• Integrate multimedia elements into presentations
• Create distribution lists and complete advanced file transfers using email
• Create ‘if’ statements, create complex graphs/charts, and use complex functions like macros and VLOOKUP in spreadsheets
• Have a fundamental understanding of programming principles and concepts

Where and How To Include Computer Skills On Your Resume

Your computer skills must be incorporated throughout your entire resume, rather than being stuck in one area. When hiring managers review a resume, they scan over each section, from top to bottom, which is why it is important to include your computer skills in these 3 main areas: The professional summary, the key skills, and the experience sections.

If writing your resume from scratch, we suggest using this free and easy-to-use resume builder . When using a resume template, all sections and formatting is done for you, all you need to do is fill in rich, engaging content.  

Professional Summary Section

At the top of your resume, below the header and contact information, comes a professional summary section. This section could be titled ‘Professional Summary’ or ‘Summary’ but avoid calling it an ‘Objective’. An objective statement is an old-school resume writing approach and is seldom used in today’s job market.

Your professional summary section will be 1-3 sentences in length. This should include your title, years of experience, and the top skills that set you apart.

If using the resume builder , the ‘True Red’, ‘Doppio’, and ‘Large; resume templates have professional summary sections that are sure to stand out.

Professional summary resume example: 

Summary of Skills Section

Following your professional summary comes a ‘summary of skills’ section. Alternative titles for this section could be ‘technical skills’, ‘key skills’, or ‘core competencies’.

Your skills section should be written in list form. Depending on the amount of skills you want to include, you can either list them out separately or arrange them into categories. A good rule of thumb is 10 skills or less should be separate, while more than 10 skills should be categorized.

Summary of skills resume example: 

Experience Section

After your summary of skills comes an experience section. Alternative titles for this section include ‘professional experience’, ‘work experience’, and ‘relevant experience’.

The experience section should be written listing your most recent employer first. For each professional position, include the company name, your title, the dates of employment, and 3-5 bullet points detailing your daily responsibilities.

When writing your responsibilities, sprinkle as many computer skills in as you can. This will validate the computer skills you have listed in your skills section by explaining how and where you used each of them.  

Experience section resume example: 

What Computer Skills Should You Include on Your Resume?

There are three easy-to-follow steps to figure out what computer skills you should include on your resume. The computer skills you include depend on both your background and the types of positions you are applying to.

Step #1: Create a master list of your computer skills

Go through each category and create a master list of each and every computer skill you have in your toolbox. When creating your master list, write every skill, no matter how obvious it may seem. Although some computer skills might seem obvious given your profession, many hiring managers still want to see these skills listed.

The important thing is to never write a computer skill that you aren’t comfortable with. If you include it, hiring managers will expect you can deliver. If you are ever worried about a hiring manager over or underestimating your level of proficiency, add ‘fundamental’, ‘basic’, ‘intermediate’, or ‘advanced’ in parentheses next to the skill listed.

Job post example (with highlighted skills):

Step #2: Figure out the computer skills required for the job

When applying for a new position, you must first identify the computer skills needed. To figure this out, go through each job description and highlight each thing that relates to a technology, software, or application.

Then create a list with the computer skills described, making sure to write each skill using the same wording that is used in the job description.

Step #3: Match your master list with the computer skills required for each position

The computer skills you include on your resume should be the items that overlap between your master list and the list of computer skills needed.

A general rule of thumb is to never include skills that aren’t relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a landscaping position, there is no need to include that you know computer programming.

50+ Computer Skills Hiring Managers Want In Resumes

To make sure your resume has the computer skills hiring managers look for, go through this list to check out the top computer skills needed for each type of category and position.

Graphic Design & Word Processing

Spreadsheets & databases, how to learn new computer skills.

Are you worried about not having the computer skills needed for a position? If so, there are plenty of tools to help you get up to speed quickly.

The first option is to enroll in a course at a local school or library. For beginners, many public libraries teach basic computer skills, so ask your neighborhood branch when the next lesson is. If you are more advanced, consider enrolling in a technology certification course at a local community college. They are cheaper and require less time than a full-out degree program.

The second option is to use an online platform. There are so many free and cheap computer skills courses available, ranging from YouTube videos to eLearning platforms like Lynda, Udemy, and Skillshare. But of course, you will need to have mastered fundamental computer proficiency, like internet browsing and typing, before you can get there.

More Skill-Related Articles For Resume Writing:

• How to List Skills on a Resume (50+ Resume Skill Examples)
• How To List Hard Skills On A Resume (50+ Hard Skill Examples)

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• 11 Best Computer Skills for...

11 Best Computer Skills for Your Resume (with Examples)

13 min read · Updated on March 12, 2024

Learn how to display computer skills on your resume to land a new job

As the world has become ever more advanced, computers and related technologies have become an integral part of most business operations. Many of the best paying jobs now require some level of computer proficiency, and most employers expect to see you list your computer skills in your resume. Of course, that means that you need to know how to properly highlight those skills to demonstrate your qualifications.

In this post, we'll help you to identify your own computer skills and show you how to effectively include them in your resume. We'll also examine the 11 best computer skills for your resume and provide some useful tips to help you improve your computer abilities.

Related post : Make the Perfect First Impression with Your Resume

What are computer skills?

Computer skills encompass a wide array of technical proficiencies and abilities related to computers and related technologies. These abilities can include everything from being able to use basic computer software to more advanced computer skills like coding, graphic design, and data management. There are also hardware-related skills.

Many of the basic computer skills for a resume are useful in jobs across many industries. The more advanced skills are often industry specific.

Some of the most basic computer skills include:

Email use and management

Some level of proficiency with Microsoft 365 programs

Spreadsheets

Point of sale technology

Most employers will assume that any qualified candidate possesses these basic computer literacy skills, so you will probably want to leave them off your resume unless the job posting lists them as requirements. So, what should you include for computer skills in your resume? Read on to learn about 11 of the most in-demand computer skills!

Related post : What Are Skills? (With Examples and Tips on How to Improve Them)

11 great computer skills employers want to see

While there are a host of computer skills employers need, some are in greater demand than others. As we examine these different computer skills, we'll consider some of the hottest technical skills needed in today's competitive labor market.

1.     Digital communication

As online collaborative tools have evolved, companies are expanding their use of these technologies to boost productivity and facilitate teamwork. Technologies like Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom, and Slack provide new ways for employees to communicate in real time as they collaborate with one another from anywhere in the world. Depending on the job you're seeking, you may want to highlight your proficiency in digital communication by mentioning some of the platforms and tools you've used in other jobs.

2.     Programming

Programming, or the ability to code, is an essential skill for anyone who seeks a career as a Web Developer, Programmer, and many other roles. Programming skills enable a worker to write the instructions that computers rely on to perform their tasks. This is considered a job-related computer skill, of course, so chances are that you'll be seeking some type of coding work if you took the time to develop these abilities.

3.     Social media

If you're applying for a social media management position, you'll obviously need to highlight your knowledge of platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media sites. Keep in mind, however, that social media expertise is a transferable skill that many companies value, so you should consider listing this skill if you're considering a career in marketing or other fields where brand identity is a concern.

4.     Graphic design

Many industries rely on graphics for advertising, online marketing, and presentations. Your graphic design skills can be an attractive resume booster, even if you're not applying for a position that would see you using those skills daily. Graphic design computer skills for your resume can include expertise with Adobe Photoshop, Sketch, Canva, and a wide variety of desktop publishing tools.

5.     Data analytics

Data analysis is an increasingly important skill set, as companies continue to rely on effective data management to maintain their competitive advantage. These skills include strong mathematical abilities, critical thinking, statistical analysis, and problem-solving abilities. Depending on the role you're seeking, you may also need proficiency in machine learning, SQL, Python, and a host of collaborative and other interpersonal skills.

6.     Website development

Web Developers need to include a range of computer skills in their resume to demonstrate their competency in their field. These skills include knowledge about program frameworks, front-end coding, back-end coding, responsive design, and testing and debugging. They also need to be familiar with JavaScript or Python, CMS, and Search Engine Optimization best practices.

7.     Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity computer skills for your resume can include everything from network and cloud security to coding, risk analysis, threat intelligence, network and system administration, and digital forensics. If you're seeking a job in the security sector, make sure that those invaluable skills are effectively conveyed to employers.

8.     Network management

Network Managers are responsible for maintaining an organization's computer network systems, including everything from basic operations to maintenance, access management, security, and troubleshooting. If you're seeking a job that will use your network management experience, then network administration, project management, network design, cloud computing, and problem-solving are just a few of the best computer skills for your resume.

9.     Presentations

Presentation skills are used in nearly every industry and in many different jobs. They are invaluable skills for Digital Marketers, Human Resources Managers, and business professionals. These computer skills for your resume can include proficiency in PowerPoint, Google Slides, and other presentation platforms and tools. Resumes that highlight these skills often include other non-technical presentation skills like public speaking, visual aid management, and audience engagement.

10.  General information technology and troubleshooting

Information technology skills encompass a broad range of distinct technology proficiencies. These professionals' duties include everything from cloud infrastructure to troubleshooting internet connectivity issues. Some great computer skills for your IT resume include security proficiency, programming languages, network administrations, data analysis, DevOps, machine learning, and cloud computing.

11.  Productivity software

Productivity software can include many diverse types of programs and platforms - everything from basic word processing, database, and spreadsheet use to role-specific platforms used in your industry. When listing productivity software computer skills in your resume, you should always refer to the job description, job posting, and your own experience in the industry. Include your proficiency with these job-related programs when you need to demonstrate those qualifications to an employer.

How should you include computer skills in your resume?

Now that we've explored some of the top computer skills for a resume, the next question is how to properly convey those skills to an employer. To do that, you need to do more than simply list those skills in your core competencies section. After all, anyone can claim to possess those vital computer skills. To convince an employer that you're qualified, you'll also need to highlight those talents in other sections of your resume.

The following tips can help you to achieve that goal.

Highlight one or two of these skills in your resume profile

You can get a head start on highlighting computer skills in your resume by including one or two of them in your resume profile. Since that's the first thing most employers see, this can be a terrific way to ensure that your most relevant skills catch their attention right away. You can do this by including some skills in your initial introductory statement and mentioning at least one computer skill you used to achieve real value for a previous employer. For example:

Creative Web Developer with 7+ years of experience designing high-performing websites for more than 200 clients. Proficient with CSS, JavaScript, Frameworks, and front end and backend development. Highly analytical SEO expert committed to responsive customer-centric design that drives repeat engagement and brand loyalty. Designed and developed ABC Corp. online brand that increased customer acquisition by 76% and boosted online sales activity by 132%.

Related Post: Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

Include your best computer skills in the core competencies section

You should also include your computer skills within your Skills or Core Competencies section. Try to select a mix of key technical and soft skills for this section, and list them in bullet point form. Since you'll be including roughly a dozen of these skills, you should also format this section into two or three columns to maximize your use of resume space.

Related post: Soft Skills Explained - and the Top 7 for Your Resume

Always compare your list of computer and other skills to the qualifications cited in the job posting. You need to make sure that your resume list of skills contains all the job description's required abilities, to ensure that employers understand your qualifications. 

Pro tip: Job skill keywords that you find in job postings are often the same keywords searched in applicant tracking systems. Include them in your resume to ensure your resume is found in searches!

Mention computer skills in your work experience achievements

It's important to include these key computer skills in your work experience section too. Fortunately, there's an ideal way to do that - simply mention them in some of the achievement bullet points that you include with each past job listing. That can provide you with a straightforward way to demonstrate how your computer skills have benefited your previous employers. For example:

• Created more than 100 professional brochures for the company's clients, using Photoshop and other graphic programs, to achieve 99% client satisfaction rating over a three-year period
• Oversaw the acquisition and implementation of a new network system that reduced inefficiencies by 33%, cut maintenance costs by 8%, and improved productivity by 41%
• Lead programmer on Adept Games' $100 million mobile game; created main character design models and boss-level environments
• Led team responsible for transforming internal communication processes, integrating video conferencing and collaborative technologies that improved teamwork and productivity by 12%

Related post : 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

Create a certification section or add computer courses to your education section

Certifications are under-used on resumes! If you have one or two certificates, you can include them in your education section after your degrees. However, if you have three or more you should consider creating a certifications section to show that you're a dedicated learner.

Include the certificate's title, issuing entity, and year earned. Certification courses will generally have self-explanatory titles like “Introduction to Agile Project Management” or “Certificate of Advanced Networking Topics,” making this an excellent option to explain your proficiency level in a particular IT skill or program.

If you're a recent graduate, you can list courses and coursework in your education section to make up for a lack of professional experience.

Tips you can use to improve your computer skills

Of course, as technology continues to advance, it's important to ensure that you keep pace with current computer skill trends, new platforms, and software. That's especially true if your chosen career involves a job in a tech-based or tech-reliant industry. By committing to personal development now, you can ensure that you maintain an active learning lifestyle that will help you to adapt to any changes the world might throw your way. The following tips can help you to plan your continuing education.

Take courses

The most obvious way to improve your computer skills is to expand your technology education. There are a variety of ways that you can do this, including online educational courses, community college, or studying YouTube tutorials. Platforms like Coursera and Codecademy can be a wonderful place to start if you're interested in balancing your current career needs with your continuing education. Just make sure that your educational choices align with your broader career goals.

It's also important to understand that there are free certifications out there if you want to expand your computer knowledge. For example, Microsoft, Google, and several other companies offer free courses in a variety of computer-related subjects.

Build a solid foundation of computer knowledge

If you never took the time to learn anything about computers, you may just want to start with the basics. For example, do you understand how computers do what they do? This type of foundational knowledge can be extremely helpful when you're trying to develop more advanced practical skills, so take the time to learn the basics.

Talk to your employer

You may also find opportunities to learn new computer skills - or use the ones you already possess - by simply asking your current employer or co-workers. Is there someone at work who uses skills that you'd like to learn? Ask them if they'd be willing to mentor you or just help you get started on that learning process. Consult with your manager to find out about any training or skills development programs that the company may offer. Some firms even pay for courses that develop their employees' valuable skills.

Practice those skills whenever you can

It's also important to use the skills that you already possess. If you have coding or other computer skills but are not yet using them in your job, you should try to ensure that you continue to use them outside of work. Computer skills need to be used if you want to maintain them over time. That's especially true of more advanced skills like coding, so make sure that you're either moving your career development forward or finding other ways to keep your skills sharp.

Use online resources

In addition to online courses, there are a whole host of other invaluable resources that you can access to gain the knowledge you need. A little research will help you to identify forums, guides, and tutorials that can provide you with the knowledge that you're seeking. Take time to join a few online forums and interact with professionals in your field. Chances are that they can provide valuable information and guidance that will help you on your educational journey.

Computer skills in your resume can boost your chances of getting an interview

While it takes time to develop the technology skills you need to keep pace in a rapidly evolving economy, it's well worth the effort. With the right computer skills in your resume, employers will quickly recognize your qualifications and offer you the interviews you need to land a lucrative job. And by committing yourself to continuing technology education, you can help to ensure that your professional development fuels your ongoing career success.

Are you still not sure how to include the top computer skills in your resume? Take a few minutes to get your free resume review from our team of experts!

Recommended reading:

The Top 13 Jobs Skills Employers Want

11 Best Technical Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

11 Best Communication Skills for Your Resume (With Examples)

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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Computer Skills for Résumé – Software Skill Proficiency Guide

Having strong computer skills is necessary for almost any job. That knowledge can set you apart from others who don't possess it.

But what are the most necessary computer skills to have? And when you acquire those skills, how do you showcase them effectively to prospective employers?

In this article, you will learn about some of the most important computer skills and software programs needed in the workplace.

You will also learn some of the most basic tasks you need to be able to complete to be competent in those programs.

Lastly, you will see some of the dos and don'ts for listing computer skills on your résumé.

Here is what we will cover:

• Why computer literacy is important
• Knowledge of operating systems and of basic IT troubleshooting
• Knowledge of web Browsers and web searching skills

Knowledge of Project Management Software

• Knowledge of communication software
• Knowledge of Email and digital calendar management software

Knowledge of Word Processing Software

• Knowledge of spreadsheet software
• Knowledge of presentation software
• Knowledge of graphic design software
• Knowledge of coding tools and databases

How to Include Computer Skills on Résumé

Why computer literacy is important.

We live in a digital world, and that doesn't seem to be changing any time soon.

On the contrary, each year, technological advancements and breakthroughs occur.

Despite the rapid growth of the Internet and technologies surrounding it, more than a third of the world's population doesn't have access to the Internet and has never used it.

Having access to it and owning a personal computer is a privilege in and of itself.

Many people also still lack the digital skills needed to use the Internet.

At the same time, there are unfulfilled jobs due to a lack of a skilled workforce.

The work we do – and will do in the future – relies heavily on digital media and tools.

So, basic computer skills are considered the bare minimum requirement by employers, with computer skills often being the top requirement listed in job postings.

And no matter the industry you are in, you will need computer skills.

Whether you work in healthcare, retail, finance, as an administrative assistant, or the HR department of a company, digital competency will be helpful.

Digital literacy will give you a higher chance of getting career opportunities and achieving growth in the modern workplace.

Software Skills Guide

Before continuing, I want to give a disclaimer.

In the sections to come, I will go over some of the most used software programs utilized in office jobs.

Depending on your job, or the career you want to transition into, you may not need knowledge of all of this.

For example, if you are an administrative assistant, you probably won't use the command line for your day-to-day tasks.

If you are a software developer, you won't necessarily be writing Excel formulas.

That said, knowledge of computer software will put you one step forward compared to someone lacking that knowledge.

So, even if you're not in tech, you can still benefit from using the command line to make repetitive manual tasks quicker. And if you are a software developer, you won't be writing only code all day. You will probably use a word processor for documentation and will need to know how to create presentations.

Another thing to add is that the list is quite long, with many programs included. It's not intended to be an exhaustive list. Instead, it's for providing a general idea of what could help make you more productive and competitive.

Learning all the software will take time, and you don't need to learn everything all at once. But you never know when this knowledge will come in useful. So, if you want to improve your computer knowledge, you can start slow and add one more tool to your toolbox each time.

With that out the way, let's see some of the most used software programs in the workplace.

Knowledge of Operating Systems and of Basic IT Troubleshooting

The first step to digital literacy is having a well-rounded understanding of operating systems.

There is no need to become an IT expert if that is not your goal, but instead, know their basic functionalities.

The Operating System (OS for short) manages all of the software and hardware on a computer and allows you to interact with the computer in the first place.

The three most widely used operating systems are:

• The Windows Operating System, which is owned by Microsoft.
• macOS, which is owned by Apple.
• Linux, which is an open-source operating system. In contrast to Windows and macOS, Linux is not proprietary software. No one company owns it. Anyone with the knowledge can contribute, make changes and improvements, and help maintain it.

In addition, it helps to have some at least basic IT troubleshooting skills. This knowledge will help you find solutions when you get stuck, and help you solve problems by yourself.

For example, some basic computer troubleshooting skills are:

• Recognizing network icons and knowing if the WiFi is on or off.
• Knowing what to do when a computer program has frozen.
• Knowing how to handle crashes.
• Knowing when and how to reboot the system.
• Knowing how to restart the computer or interact with Task Manager to handle unresponsive programs.
• Knowing what to do when the computer doesn't power up.
• Knowing how to solve issues with USB memory sticks and external hard drives.
• Knowing how to speed up a slow computer.
• Knowing how to perform basic network diagnostics.
• Knowing when to update system and when a routine maintenance is needed.
• knowing about user account management.

You'll use a GUI (Graphic User Interface) to make your way around a computer.

The different buttons and dropdown menus, the pointing and mouse clicks, and the different icons you see on your screen make GUIs easy to use.

However, there may be times when you will need to use a Command Line Interface (or CLI for short).

A CLI is a text-based program. You type commands in a prompt using keyboard navigation only and save significant time when performing repetitive tasks.

On Windows, the software program is called Command Prompt, and on macOS, it is called Terminal.

A shell (such as Bash or Zsh shell) is the interface between you, the user, and the computer's operating system.

You type commands in one of the CLI applications. The shell reads, processes, and interprets the commands and instructs the Operating System to perform the task.

Knowing your way around the command line will help you save considerable time. Some basic command line skills to have are:

• General system commands.
• How to create and delete files and folders.
• How to view contents of files and folders.
• How to open programs.
• How to use a command-line text editor, such as Vim, Emacs or Nano, to write to files.
• How to manage current working processes.

Knowledge of Web Browsers and Web Searching Skills

Knowing how to quickly and effectively find meaningful information to help you solve a problem, or to enable you to conduct research for a project, is a valuable skill to have.

For this purpose, you must know how to use a Web browser correctly.

Web browsers are application software that locates and presents to users the information requested on the World Wide Web.

Some of the most popular web browsers are:

• Google Chrome, developed by Google.
• Firefox Mozilla, developed by Firefox.
• Microsoft Edge, developed by Mircosoft.
• Safari, developed by Apple.

To use web browsers productively, here are some of the skills you need:

• Make sure you use modern and updated web browsers instead of older and unsupported ones.
• Know the navigational buttons. Go back to the previous page, refresh the current page, create a file and open the page in a new tab or window, and know your way around the browser's menu for extra functionalities, to name a few.
• Enter URLs (short for Uniform Resource Locator). URLs are a unique web address that you put into the browser's address bar.
• Know how to read a URL by understanding its different parts and recognizing when a website might be sketchy.
• Perform searches by using keywords and perform basic Internet research.
• Know how to apply filters for advanced searching techniques.
• Make use of tabbed browsing. With modern browsers, you can open, manage and switch between many web pages simultaneously – in the same browser window.
• Know how to restore tabs.
• Create and manage bookmarks with the browser's built-in bookmark manager. Bookmarks is another name for 'your favorites' – the websites you would like to save and keep for future reference. You can create folders and subfolders for a more organized bookmarking system.
• Know how to manage and delete browsing history on your system.
• Know about browser security and privacy issues. The first step is knowing the difference between HTTP and HTTPS , especially when making financial transactions across the internet. Next is using Incognito mode for protecting sensitive data when sharing a computer with someone else or using a public computer.
• Know how to clear browser cache and cookies to improve load time, save space, and reduce bandwidth.
• Know how to install extensions that have additional browser functionalities.

When you become part of a team, you will probably need to use project management software.

Project management software is an interactive collaboration tool used for project task management and delegation.

They help keep teams organized, productive, and efficient, no matter their size.

Some of the most commonly used project management software are:

• Google Tasks

You can also use project management software for your personal projects.

They can help keep you motivated and visually see the progress you are making, all in one place.

The most common features to know when using such applications are:

• How to create a custom workspace for the team.
• How to plan, organize, and schedule projects.
• How to create a visual roadmap and timeline with kanban boards and user stories, to visualize the bigger picture of the project, and what the workflow will look like during the different stages of the project.
• How to create and view lists with tasks that need to get done.
• How to color code and label tasks to better organize and prioritize them into groups.
• How to update and edit the current status of tasks. Track progress of projects throughout the life of the project for all team members to stay up to date.
• How to mark and check off completed tasks as completed.
• Collaboration between team members. Individual team members can comment, add notes and their input regarding significant project updates, set reminders, all on the same page.
• How to allocate and assign tasks to team members. Easily visualize the assignments that each team member is working on.
• How to track time spent on each task and manage deadlines to ensure on-time delivery.
• How to create internal reports and project documentation.
• How to create and share project meeting notes.
• How to create and share a knowledge hub and wiki, with a curated dashboard of a library with resources related to the project.
• How to share accomplishments and project milestones.
• How to keep track of achievements that you can use as a reference in one-to-ones and reviews.
• How to keep track of budgeting, monitor the project's spending, and schedule invoices.

Knowledge of Communication Software

When you are part of a team, you need to communicate clearly and precisely with the rest of the team members.

Communication tools enhance a team's productivity, which in turn leads to better products and services.

These days, more people work remotely and teams are distributed theoughout different corners of the world and across different timezones. Because of this, teams rely on dedicated communication tools to collaborate, talk to each other, and stay in touch, no matter where they are.

Each team has its own communication style, but regardless of their preferences you would be expected to know how to use a digital communication medium.

These fall into different categories:

• Real time instant messaging platforms, which are a substitute for emails and provide faster exchanges with more communication features to choose from.
• Voice calling platforms.
• Video conferencing platforms to host meetings.

Some of the most popular ones used are:

• Microsoft Teams
• Google Meet

Some of the features you would need to know how to use are:

• How to privately message someone for direct communication.
• How to create group messaging chats that are either public or private.
• How to create and utilize custom channels for specific projects or topics.
• How to record meetings and talks. In this case, all participants need to be aware of the recording.
• How to host an educational webinar.
• How to share your screen to work through problems.
• How to utilise the 'raise your hand' feature.
• Know keyboard shortcuts for muting/unmuting yourself and turning your camera on/off.

Knowledge of Email and Digital Calendar Management Software

Emails are a fast way to communicate with your colleagues and send messages across the internet.

You need to know how to compose concise and well-organized emails using an email provider.

The most commonly used email software applications are:

• Microsoft Outlook
• Google Gmail

The basic knowledge you would need includes the following:

• Setting up an email account.
• Formatting, sending, and receiving emails.
• Sending an email to multiple people at once.
• Attaching document files, images, and voice messages to your emails.
• Using the address book for your contacts.
• Starring emails for organizing emails in a separate folder.
• Creating folders and sorting through emails.
• Creating labels and filters to search through specific keywords to maximize productivity.
• Knowing how to file, prioritize, and group emails for easier access and time efficiency.
• Forwarding emails.
• Idenitfying phishing emails.

Your email account will be in-sync with a digital calendar program.

For example, Gmail uses Google Calendar and Outlook uses the Outlook Calendar.

Knowledge of Calendly, a scheduling application, is helpful too.

You can connect it to your email account for scheduling appointments, meetings, and appointments.

The skills you need to have when using digital calendars are:

• Knowing how to block out your time and set up your availability.
• Sharing your calendar with a link so other team members can arrange events and meetings with you.
• Scheduling and arranging meetings.
• Inviting attendees.
• Canceling events.

Knowing how to write in an engaging way and format text documents is a necessary skill, no matter your industry.

You may need to write blogs and articles for the company's website. You may be in charge of writing and publishing the company's newsletter. You may need to compose and frequently update documentation on internal tools used in the company. You may need to write formal reports to stakeholders.

Whatever the case, knowing how to use a word processor is a must.

Some of the most commonly used word processors are:

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs
• OpenOffice Writer
• LibreOffice
• Dropbox Paper

Here are some of the basic skills to have when using a word processor:

• Know how to create a new document and insert, edit, modify, copy, cut, and delete text. Know how to enable automatic saving to ensure you don't lose any work by accident.
• Know how to open an already created document.
• Know how to merge documents.
• Know how to change page view layout.
• Know how to utilize spell and grammar checker for correcting spelling errors and typos.
• Know how to create hyperlinks.
• Choose the correct font depending on the occasion.
• Know how to format and emphasize text. Knowledge of keyboard shortcuts (such as copy/cut/pasting, how to undo and redo work) to improve your touch typing speed.
• Know how to organize and split the text into sections with headings, subheadings, and indented paragraphs.
• For large documents, know how to create a table of contents so others can easily navigate to different sections.
• Know how to select, move and center align text.
• Know how to use pre-existing templates and create new ones.
• Utilize the find and replace feature.
• Collaborate with other team members by highlighting text and leaving comments in the document's sidebar with suggestions.
• Know how to share and protect documents by setting up password protection.
• Know how to save the document in different file formats (such as saving the document as a PDF).
• Know how to set up and print documents.
• Know how to insert columns.
• Know how to insert and format tables, text boxes, charts, graphs, and visual elements into text documents to visualize data.
• Know how to create, edit and format complex tables with data.
• Know how to import graphs and embed other documents (such as Excel worksheets).
• Know how to insert images and bookmarks.
• Know how to create, sort, and filter Mail Merges.

Knowledge of Spreadsheet Software

Many jobs require you to be comfortable working with smaller or even larger datasets.

You need to know how to store and organize data in a tabular format.

In this way, you'll be able to analyze and perform calculations on the data.

Some of the most commonly used spreadsheet softwares are:

• Microsoft Excel
• Google Sheets
• Apple Numbers
• LibreOffice Calc

Here are some of the basic skills to have when using spreadsheet software:

• Know how to perform data entry by setting up, creating, modifying, formatting, and saving worksheets.
• Know how to manage multiple worksheets.
• How how to merge cells.
• Know how to highlight columns based on conditions you set using conditional formatting.
• Know how to filter columns.
• Know how to create graphs and charts
• Know how to perform arithmetic calculations using functions. For example, know how to add individual values and find the total sum using SUM, Or being familiar with finding the average in a range of numbers using AVERAGE. Or, knowing how to find the highest and lowest number in range using MIN and MAX, respectively.
• Know how to use advanced functions such as VLOOKUP (or Vertical Lookup) to search columns.
• Know basic VBA (which is short for Visual Basic Application) to create Excel Macros. Know how to work with macros commands to create custom functions that automate repetitive and time-consuming manual tasks.
• Know how to create pivot tables and charts to visualize, compare and present large amounts of data using visualizations. Know how to generate reports with your findings.

Knowledge of Presentation Software

Knowing how to put together a presentation is a valuable skill to have.

You may need to give a presentation in front of a few team members and update them on the progress of a project. You may need to deliver a more formal presentation to stakeholders, or you may even need to give a talk at a large conference in front of experts in your field.

Either way, knowing how to create engaging slides will be necessary.

Some of the most popular presentation software programs are:

• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Google Slides

Here are some of the basic skills to have when using presentation software:

• Know how to select pre-built templates and color schemes and customize them by adding content into the slide.
• Know how to design and format custom templates.
• Know how to add slide transitions.
• Insert charts, graphs, diagrams, and tables with data into slides.
• Create icons, animations, transitions, and a mixture of static and motion graphics.
• Know how to insert Clip Art.
• Add notes to each slide
• Make slides interactive by inserting hyperlinks.
• Know how to insert media such as pictures, pieces of music, audio and sound effects, gifs, short video clips, or full videos uploaded from the computer or embedded from Youtube.

Knowledge of Graphic Design Software

Knowledge of design software is not exclusive to designers.

You may need to create visual content for an email marketing campaign, create a poster for a company event, or you may want to add detailed and visually appealing infographics to a presentation. You may want to prepare and edit photos or create mockups to improve the User Experience of a company's website.

Some of the most popular design software are:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe After Effects

Each of these programs above have a different use case .

In general, here are some of the basic skills to have when using graphic design software:

• Know how to import assets and set up a document from scratch correctly, with the appropriate width, height, size, and display setting for the project.
• Know how to open already existing image files.
• Know how to create and manipulate 3D objects and how to add visual effects from pre-existing and built-in styles.
• Know how to manipulate images, both static and moving, and add visual effects with animations
• Know how to prepare and get documents ready for print production.
• Know how to save and export files in the correct format and prepare them for other programs.
• Know how to make documents ready for use on the Web.
• Know how to create and manipulate interactive media.
• Know how to do basic photo editing, retouching, and enhancement and manipulate images by cropping and moving them.
• Know how to create graphs, charts, infographics, and interactive PDFs.
• Know how to create wireframes, prototypes and mockups, and User Interfaces for web design projects.
• Know how to create logos, icons, and artwork.

Knowledge of Coding Tools and Databases

Coding can help you solve problems and communicate with computers using a language that computers understand. And databases are programs for storing data and that allow programmers to retrieve the data using queries.

Even if you are not working as a developer, knowing the basics of coding can help make repetitive aspects of your job much easier.

Besides that, coding is one of the most fundamental technical skills you can have in the 21st century, not to mention that there is a high demand for applicants that know how to code.

Here are some of the basic skills to have for coding and interacting with databases:

• Knowledge of text editors and using the smart features available for writing source code. -Knowledge of code editors with IDE-like features – where IDE is short Integrated Development environment – such as Visual Studio Code, for writing and editing source code, compiling and running source code, using the built-in terminal and debugging, all under the same roof.
• Knowledge of the Git version control software to keep track of project changes and for collaboration. Create, push to, pull from, and clone a repository.
• Knowledge of more advanced Git commands, such as for merging and branching.
• Depending on the task at hand, knowledge of a programming language. If you need to work on the visual parts of a website users interact with (otherwise known as the client-side), learn frontend technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. If the task involves working on the logic side of things (or the server-side), analyzing data, and automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, learn a server-side scripting programming language like Python.
• Knowledge of Linux commands and working with a Linux environment . Know how to set up a Virtual Machine and run Linux on your local computer.
• Know SQL (short for Structured Query Language) to interact with Relational Databases (such as Oracle Database, MySQL, and PostgreSQL). Know how to write basic SQL commands to perform CRUD (short for Create Read Update Delete) operations to query the database and manipulate the data stored.

Below are some key points to consider when including computer skills on your résumé:

• You could create a separate dedicated section, such as a sidebar on the résumé, reserved for only listing your computer skills by including a list with bulleted points.
• Include computer skills that set you apart from other applicants and are only relevant to the position. Just a note: don't list Microsoft Word as a computer skill if you are applying for a software developer role. Microsoft Word may be a tool you use for your daily work, but employers assume you already have that knowledge, and it's not what they are interested in seeing from your résumé.
• List skills you have familiarity with and are comfortable using. Employers will probably ask questions based on the skills and technologies you added, so don't mislead and be direct about your exact level of proficiency.
• List relevant courses and diplomas/certifications you have taken to advance your skills.
• Do not list your skills accompanied by a metric bar with a percentage of how proficient you are. For example, don't include 'I am 78% proficient in JavaScript'. Something like that could easily lead to confusion.
• Be specific. For example, don't just include 'Advanced knowledge in Microsoft Excel'. Instead, provide some examples of what you can do with Excel, such as naming the advanced functions and formulas you are proficient in.
• Instead of just only listing skills, focus on mentioning achievements, milestones, metrics, and how your computer skills helped a company. Employers are interested in seeing how your computer skills helped improve your team's productivity and increased sales and revenue in your previous jobs. For example, you could mention a task you automated by writing a Python script which saved significant time for your team.
• Make sure to keep it brief and get your point across in a concise way. Recruiters and employers don't spend much time going through résumés, so relevant information needs to stand out easily and in a summarized way.
• You can include links to articles, a conference talk you gave, a workshop you hosted, or a YouTube channel you have, where you explain technical topics in your field. This way, you show to prospective employers that you are engaged in your community, and you have the knowledge and expertise they are looking for.

Here's a guide to writing a résumé that hiring managers will actually read.

Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of what computer skills you should have if you're job hunting in today's market. We went over what you need to know to utilize software programs effectively, and how to present those skills clearly to employers.

Thank you for reading!

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Software Engineer Resume [2024] - Example + How-to Guide

You’re a software engineer. You use your talents to build the future.

Well, once you get the job.

There’s one thing in your way:

The huge pile of other resumes sitting on the recruiter’s desk.

It’s time to make your talents stand out.

In this guide, we take you through a step-by-step process to creating a software engineer resume that gets results.

• An example of a finished software engineer resume that works
• How to write a software engineer resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your software engineer resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

For some inspiration, here’s a software engineer resume example, created with our very own online resume builder :

Looks good, right?! Now it’s time to create your own.

Besides the software engineer resume example, we've got a bunch more examples for professionals in the computer science field:

• Java Developer Resume
• Web Developer Resume
• Computer Science Resume
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer Resume
• Engineering Resume
• Data Scientist Resume
• Data Analyst Resume
• Data Entry Resume

How to Format a Software Engineer Resume

Now, before you can highlight your talents, you need to format your resume correctly. 

Your resume should be easy to read and not be hard work for the recruiter to skim through. 

The “reverse-chronological” resume format  is the most commonly used format, and we can see why. It positions your top talents at the top of your resume, so the recruiter can immediately see your value proposition.

These software engineering resume formats also get our approval…

• Functional Resume – If you have strong software engineering skills, but a small amount of work experience, this resume format is recommended
• Combination Resume – The final format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological” formats. As such, it is ideal for software engineers who have skills AND work experience.

Once you’ve chosen your format, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use a Software Engineer Resume Template

Word is a great application for creating documents.

Creating a resume with text editors is a different story all together!

This is due to formatting issues.

In fact, there’s a chance your entire layout will fall apart as you make alterations. 

Want to skip any formatting issues? Use a software engineer resume template .

What to Include in a Software Engineering Resume

The main sections in a software engineering resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

But wait – what should you write for each of these sections? 

Read on to learn how.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this section doesn’t need any creativity, but it must be factually correct. 

Play close attention to this section – the last thing you want is an impressed recruiter who wants to interview you, but can’t contact you!

The contact information section must include:

• Title – Align this to the job description, which is “Software Engineer”
• Phone Number – Check this multiple times
• Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not your childhood email ([email protected])
• (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Lauren Hill - Software Engineer. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Lauren Hill - Ninja Software Engineer. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Software Engineer Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a shocking fact for you –

Recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume .

With hundreds of resumes to get through, it’s no surprise that recruiters simply glance over resumes looking for the most important information. 

As such, you want to make the most important information clear to see.

The best way to do this is via a resume summary or objective , which are snappy paragraphs that go on top of your resume.

Their purpose is to quickly highlight why you are the best candidate for the software engineering job. They can be seen as a “small preview” to the rest of your resume.

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

• Experienced software engineer with a strong background in developing award-winning strategies for a diverse clientele. 12+ years of industry experience includes leading large engineering teams to achieve concrete goals on a strict deadline. Strong skills include Database management and MySQL, .NET and Java.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

• Motivated software engineer looking to pursue a successful career in software development at Company X, where I can help in the delivery of state-of-the-art software solutions. Experience includes coding, troubleshooting, and testing for my own personal projects while at University X. Relevant skills include PHP, Data Structures, Machine Learning, and Debugging.

So, which one is best for your situation, summary or objective?

Generally, we recommend experienced software engineers go with a summary. If you have the skills but lack the industry experience, you should choose a resume objective (graduates, career changers, or those still studying).

How to Make Your Software Engineer Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters want to know that you can do the job, and do the job well. The easiest way to instil confidence in the recruiter is with your work experience.

Here’s how we recommend you structure your work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

Software Engineer

ElectronicsX

03/2017 - 07/2020

• Built an ecommerce site integrated with multiple payment APIs for a 32% in company revenue
• Developed new infrastructure to easily handle over a million client files 
• Consistently achieved 100% compliance with industry best practices
• Reduced security breaches by 84%

To separate your resume from the competition, you should highlight your top achievements. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits in hiring you.

Instead of saying:

“In charge of infrastructure”

“Developed new infrastructure to easily handle over a million client files”

Simply put, the first statement doesn’t say much.

This is in direct comparison with the second statement that shows how your work benefited the company greatly. Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Not everyone will have a wealth of work experience.

Maybe you’re a graduate looking for your first engineering job?

The question is how to tackle this part of your resume when you have no experience.  

The answer –

Talk about your internship experience, volunteering work, or any achievements at your place of education. 

You can even create a portfolio of your own work!

There are several ways to build a portfolio (and even get paid for it):

• Pick up some relevant freelance gigs on UpWork
• Start you own software project as a side-hustle

Are you recent engineering graduate? Make sure to check out our student resume guide!

Use Action Words to Make Your Software Engineer Resume POP!

…are all common words that the recruiter sees time and time again.

However, you don’t want your resume to resume the competition, which means you should use power words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

B.A. in Software Engineering

The University of Chicago

2012 - 2016

• Relevant Courses : Software Engineering Project, Distributed Systems Development, Information Systems Modelling, Specification of Software Systems, Software Evolution, Software Quality, Agile Methods

Now, you may need more information. If so, here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

• Regardless of whether you’re an engineering graduate or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date

Should I include my high school education?

• Generally, only include your highest form of education. Therefore, include your high school education if you don’t have a relevant degree in engineering

What do I put first, my education or experience?

• Experiences are the priority, so those go first. If you’re a recent graduate, you will likely need to start with education

Need more information? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Software Engineer Resume

Your software engineer resume must do one thing—

Show that you’ll do a better job than the other candidates.

But how can you do this? 

Well, by highlighting the right software engineer skills on a resume.  

This is done by looking at the job description, and then comparing the skills needed with the skills you already have.

Put all relevant skills on your resume. Here are the most commonly used skills for a software engineer resume:

Hard Skills for a Software Engineer:

• Data Structures
• Machine Learning
• Web Development

Soft Skills for a Software Engineer:

• Creative Thinking
• Communication
• Time-Management
• Team Player
• Try to sprinkle your skills throughout the document, not just in the skills section. You can drop some of your skills in the resume summary, education section, and work experience section.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 101+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include?

That’s all of the essentials covered.

But ask yourself one question –

Does your resume stand out ?! 

The above sections should be enough to get you onto the shortlist, but adding some extra sections could be the deciding factor between you and another candidate.  

Awards & Certifications

Have you won an award for your engineering work?

Have you completed any courses that improve your skills?

If you have any awards or certifications, be sure to list them in your resume!

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

• “Advance Software Engineering” - Coursera Certificate
• “Critical Thinking Masterclass” - MadeUpUniversity

Even though you will unlikely need to speak an alternative language in your job, the skill is still impressive to any recruiter. As such, feel free to add a language section if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you’ll probably thinking, “why is my love of fishing relevant to the job application?”

Well, listing your hobbies allows the recruiter to get to know who you are.

They can also show that you’ll be a good part of the team, especially if you enjoy social activities. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Cover letters are just as important as they always have been.

You see, a cover letter instantly makes your application specific and more personal. 

Unlike a generic resume that has been sent to ten other companies, a cover letter shows the recruiter that you want to work for their company.

For a winning cover letter, you need the correct structure. Here’s what we recommend:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, location, and website (or Behance / Dribble).

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

As the recruiter will likely skim through your application, you need to win their attention within the first few sentences. Use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Now it’s onto the main body of the cover letter, where you should delve into the following specifics:

• Why you want to work for this specific company
• What you already know about the company
• How your engineering skills will help you to do the job
• Which similar positions have you held before

Closing Paragraph

To wrap up your cover letter, you should:

• Conclude the main points made in the body paragraph
• Thank the recruiter for the job opportunity
• Finish with a call to action that leaves the conversation open, such as “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help company X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Congratulations!

If you followed the advice above, you’re well on your way to landing that elusive software engineering role.

Before we go, let’s summarize the main points:

• Format your software engineer resume correctly. Use the reverse-chronological format, and then follow our layout recommendation
• Use a summary or objective at the top of your resume
• Highlight your achievements in your work experience section
• Make sure your portfolio is the best it can be. If you don’t have one, think about getting one
• Include a convincing cover letter to separate you from the competition

Suggested Reading:

• Guide to Green Careers - All You Need to Know
• How to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength” [4 Samples]
• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers

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Resume Worded   |  Proven Resume Examples

• Resume Examples
• Engineering Resumes

13 Software Developer Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Software developers are the magicians behind the applications we use daily on our mobiles or computers. they design, develop, and maintain programs by using programming languages. most software developers are problem-solvers, logical thinkers, and lifelong learners, as this industry is always evolving. according to the bureau of labor statistics, software developers are highly in-demand. their job outlook is expected to increase by up to 25 percent, which is significantly high compared to other occupations. yet, a good resume can elevate even more those expectations. this guide will help you create the best software developer resume..

Software development is the process of creating computer applications, including mobile apps, desktop programs, video games, IoT software, etc. Developers build the skeleton of the software by using backend techniques and design the visual aspect through front-end development. 

Computers are programmable, meaning that you can give them instructions to perform certain tasks. However, they don’t speak the same language we do. We must learn how to interact with them in their own vocabulary. This is what programming languages are for. 

There are numerous of them and each one has a different purpose and syntax. Programming languages like Python, Ruby, or Java are focused on the backend process, allowing us to interact with servers and databases. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, on the other hand, are used for the client side of the development process. 

There are two types of roles in the development community that often overlap and interact with each other: programmers, and software engineers/developers. Although both terms are often used interchangeably, programmers have a more specific role. They are responsible for tasks like writing code, displaying graphics, and merging databases.

Software developers have a wider spectrum of responsibilities. Developers design software by considering the perspective of end-users or business needs. Yet, they are also programmers themselves. Hence we’ve mentioned that these roles generally overlap. However, programmers are limited to writing functional code and app maintenance.

Today, we’ll show you how to create your own software developer resume. Take a look below to see some resume templates for each software developer role.

Software Developer Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Software Developer
• Senior Software Developer
• Junior Software Developer
• Entry Level Software Developer
• React Developer
• Backend Developer
• Node JS Developer
• AngularJS Developer

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Software Developer Resumes

Software Developer Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Related Engineering Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 13: Software Developer Resume Example

A developer designs software solutions with an end-user perspective. They develop the software infrastructure with engineering principles and design the visual aspect of the platform. Software developers are part of the entire lifecycle process, meaning that they also debug, troubleshoot, and maintain the infrastructure. The traditional path to becoming a software developer is by earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science. However, today we have many other alternatives such as online courses, community college, and even self-training. Let's take a look at a strong resume example you can use when applying for a software development role.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Software Developer resume in 2024

   indicate your familiarity with the agile and scrum development approach in your resume..

The agile and scrum methodologies are project management systems that consist of an increase in efficiency and productivity. In this system, deliverables are broken down into shorter sprints to facilitate the project life cycle. Most tech companies these days use this methodology to improve their productivity. Therefore, it is crucial to mention your familiarity with this method in your resume.

   Mention the programming languages you are proficient at.

Companies can have a wide variety of needs in terms of software development and each computer solution has its own requirements, such as a particular programming language or framework. Therefore, you should try to include all those coding languages and tools you are familiar with in your resume to expand your possibilities.

Skills you can include on your Software Developer resume

Template 2 of 13: software developer resume example.

Software developers are assigned to do tasks similar to a software engineer. The difference is that a developer will be more focused on a specific project versus the broad work done by an engineer. For this, your resume needs to have achievements and results from a particular project.

   Strong action verbs related to software developers

When working on a particular project, stating the results is key. Examples listed in the sample include “resolved”, “documented”, and “customized”. All of these are action verbs that will help recruiters see that you played a major role in the improvements of a project.

   Focused on software development

Recruiters like to see tasks that solely pertain to software development. This sample has experience fully relevant to the position without much mention of skills for other fields.

Template 3 of 13: Software Engineer/Developer Resume Example

Software developers should always stress their technical programming and software development skills. They should do that throughout their work experience and skills section, and if you don't have enough work experience, use a projects section like this resume does.

Tips to help you write your Software Engineer/Developer resume in 2024

   add a projects section if you need to showcase more technical experience.

It's becoming increasingly standard for software developers to include one or two projects which stress their software development experience, outside their professional experience. This is what's been done in this template. Only do this, however, if you don't have enough work experience or your work experience doesn't emphasize enough technical skills (or doesn't emphasize technical skills relevant to the actual job you're applying to).

   Shows growth with promotions

Recruiters look for evidence of professional growth, and promotions are a great way to show recruiters that.

Skills you can include on your Software Engineer/Developer resume

Template 4 of 13: senior software developer resume example.

Senior software developers are experienced engineers that often lead the development team. They usually have four to ten years of experience in the field and are familiar with up-to-date trends in the industry. A senior software developer is responsible for designing the product standards, delegating, tasks, and monitoring colleagues to make sure they are following the specifications and delivering their job on time.

Tips to help you write your Senior Software Developer resume in 2024

   quantify your achievements with metrics..

Your role as a senior software developer can have a big influence on the development team's operations. Therefore, your achievements can be easily quantified. By doing this, you will provide more reliability to your resume by illustrating your influence on the organization’s bottom line.

   Demonstrate your project management skills.

Senior software developers have a managerial role. They are responsible for overseeing the development team’s performance and providing guidance. You must make sure everyone is on track with deadlines and following technical standards. That’s why it is important to include your project management skills in your resume.

Skills you can include on your Senior Software Developer resume

Template 5 of 13: junior software developer resume example.

Junior software developers assist their colleagues in the development team with all types of production activities such as software design, debugging, and coding. They will also be part of the design meetings. In this role, they will obtain industry experience to aspire to higher positions.

Tips to help you write your Junior Software Developer resume in 2024

   highlight your problem-solving skills..

Junior software developers are expected to fix bugs and perform testing to identify potential errors in the application. Therefore, having problem-solving skills is key for this role. If you want to make your resume stand out, highlight your problem-solving skills and your critical thinking.

   Use programming-specific keywords.

When writing your resume, you should always try to customize it to the software development industry. Most resumes go through an ATS filter that analyzes keywords to identify ideal candidates. Therefore, you must ensure your resume is optimized and will get past the ATSs. Try to include programming or software development-specific keywords throughout your resume.

Skills you can include on your Junior Software Developer resume

Template 6 of 13: entry level software developer resume example.

An entry-level software developer is a great role for gaining experience in the industry. You will be part of the development team by doing junior-level tasks such as coding or designing. This experience will help you enrich your toolkit and learn more about software development in the field.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Software Developer resume in 2024

   include software development projects that you’ve done on your own..

As an entry-level software developer, you may not have a lot of industry experience, but that doesn’t mean you can’t apply for this role. You can use non-work-related experiences such as volunteering or your software engineering projects. These facets have more value than you may think.

   Highlight your transferable skills.

Another great way to enrich your entry-level software developer resume is by leveraging your transferrable skills. These are competencies you may have earned in previous jobs that are also relevant for a particular occupation. In this case, you can mention your organizational skills, graphic design, or logical thinking.

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Software Developer resume

Template 7 of 13: react developer resume example.

React is a front-end tool developed by Facebook. It works with JavaScript and it’s used for building desktop or mobile applications. React is actually a library and not a framework, meaning that it contains prewritten code and templates to ease the developer’s work. A React developer is a programmer who uses React/React.Js to create JavaScript-based applications.

Tips to help you write your React Developer resume in 2024

   mention your proficiency with responsive web principles..

Responsive web design is a popular approach these days that consists of developing software that adapts to users’ behavior based on their device (mobile, tablet, desktop). This means that the application should respond to the screen size, orientation, and users’ preferences based on their device. React developers must have high proficiency in developing web-responsive applications, so you should indicate this in your resume.

   Demonstrate your testing and debugging skills.

Just like any other programmer, React developers must perform testing techniques to ensure there are no bugs in the platform and that everything is up and running. We could say that this is a crucial skill in terms of functionality and security, so many employers expect you to have it.

Skills you can include on your React Developer resume

Template 8 of 13: backend developer resume example.

As a Backend Developer, you're responsible for crafting the backbone of applications and ensuring seamless data flow between server and user interface. Nowadays, many companies are transitioning to microservices architecture and cloud-based systems, so it's essential to demonstrate your expertise in these areas when tailoring your resume. Additionally, highlight any experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker) and working with agile methodologies, as those are often highly valued by employers in this field. When drafting your resume, emphasize your proficiency in various programming languages, frameworks, and databases, as well as your ability to design, develop, and maintain efficient solutions. Showcasing your adaptability and eagerness to learn new technologies will catch the eye of any hiring manager eager to build a strong and innovative backend team.

Tips to help you write your Backend Developer resume in 2024

   showcase language and framework mastery.

On your resume, specify your level of expertise with programming languages (e.g., Node.js, Java, Python) and frameworks (e.g., Express, Django, Spring). Backend Developers should emphasize their technical skills to prove their competency and ability to create server-side solutions.

   Demonstrate experience with databases

As a Backend Developer, working with databases is crucial. Mention your experience with various database management systems, like SQL, NoSQL, or GraphQL, as well as skills in data modeling, migrations, and optimization, to showcase your ability to manage and manipulate data efficiently.

Skills you can include on your Backend Developer resume

Template 9 of 13: backend developer resume example.

Backend developers work on the hidden side of the development process. While front end developers create the face of the website/app, backend developers manage servers, databases, and security. Basically, they work on the structure of the application. Backend developers use programming languages like Ruby, PHP, and Java.

   Indicate your knowledge of popular frameworks.

This may sound odd because most frameworks are mostly seen as front end developers’ specialties. They are not often associated with backend. However, the software development industry is pretty broad and fast-paced, so you need to be flexible. You might be quickly dragged into a JavaScript project where you might be limited to working with a framework to build the backend structure. Therefore, knowing at least one JS framework can set you apart.

   Mention your knowledge of Version Control Systems.

Version Control Systems are tools that developers use to monitor changes in code. It creates different versions of the code that can be restored when needed. They help the development team work smarter and more efficiently. Knowing Version Control Systems is definitely a plus in your backend development career.

Template 10 of 13: Node.js Developer Resume Example

A Node.js developer is a software engineer that integrates server-side logic with front-end elements in the application. Node.js is a programming environment that helps developers control the interchange of data between servers and users. As a Node.js developer, you would be constantly working with front-end developers, so it’s important to demonstrate some basic understanding of client-side programming principles in your resume.

Tips to help you write your Node.js Developer resume in 2024

   mention your proficiency in javascript on your resume..

As a Node.js developer, you should be highly proficient in JavaScript, which is the only native programming language supported by this programming environment. However, you can also use compile-to-JS languages, such as CoffeeScript or TypeScript.

   Mention your knowledge of frameworks available for Node.js on your resume.

There are numerous frameworks available for Express or StrongLoop. Your potential employer might have a required framework for their project. Hence, it’s a good idea to check their skills requirements first to identify the frameworks that are relevant for them.

Skills you can include on your Node.js Developer resume

Template 11 of 13: node js developer resume example.

Node.JS is an open-source runtime environment that allows developers to execute JavaScript commands on the backend side. A Node.JS developer codes server-side architecture using JavaScript of any of its variants. They handle the interchange of data between users and servers.

Tips to help you write your Node JS Developer resume in 2024

   demonstrate your ability to write clean code..

As a Node.JS developer, you will work with other team members to develop applications. Therefore, it is crucial to write clean code, as it enhances communication with all team members. They must be able to understand what you did in order to continue the development process. Writing clean code is a skill that isn’t often mentioned, but can definitely improve recruiters’ perception of your work.

   Indicate your time management skills.

Node.JS developers often work under tight deadlines and in a fast-paced environment, so it’s vital to have excellent time management skills. Your employer would like to know that you are capable of delivering work on time without sacrificing the quality of your work.

Skills you can include on your Node JS Developer resume

Template 12 of 13: node.js developer resume example.

To land a Node.js developer position, you need to show hiring managers that you have the right blend of technical knowledge (i.e. experience with JavaScript and JavaScript frameworks) and people skills to succeed on the job. Your resume skills section should showcase your proficiency with industry-specific softwares and programming languages. In your work experience section, underscore key accomplishments where you’ve used soft skills such as communication and teamwork.

   Emphasizes hard skills in separate skills section

Because technical abilities are so essential in a Node.js developer role, these skills should go in a dedicated skills section on your resume. In particular, highlight your knowledge of JavaScript and related frameworks such as React and/or Angular. The more tools you have at your disposal, the more versatile and effective you’ll be at your job.

   Strong use of technical action verbs to introduce past achievements

Your accomplishments from past jobs will stand out even more to recruiters when you lead into them with strong action verbs. For a Node.js position, it’s especially helpful to choose verbs that demonstrate your ability to solve problems, collaborate with others (such as “coordinated”, “optimized”, or “created”), and showcase developer skills (e.g. debugged, developed, coded).

Template 13 of 13: AngularJS Developer Resume Example

AngularJS is a front end framework used to create faster and lighter programs. AngularJS developers design and build applications using JavaScript. Since they focus on front end development, they will create everything that users see on the website or application. AngularJS developers will also test and troubleshoot the platform when necessary.

Tips to help you write your AngularJS Developer resume in 2024

   demonstrate your ability to coordinate with team members..

As an AngularJS developer, you will have to work with other team members such as designers and backend developers. You must coordinate with them on the application’s features, functions, and visual aspects. Therefore, you need to have excellent communication and team work skills. This is a great value that you should definitely include in your resume.

   Mention your proficiency with SEO.

This might seem odd because AngularJS developers don’t create the website’s content. However, SEO plays a huge role in the performance of single-page apps by improving their ranking on Google’s search. Knowing SEO is not usually a required skill, but it can help you stand out.

Skills you can include on your AngularJS Developer resume

We spoke with hiring managers and recruiters from top companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon to gather their best tips for creating a winning software developer resume. By following their advice and studying the examples they've shared, you'll be able to craft a resume that showcases your skills and experience in the most effective way possible.

   Highlight your technical skills

Employers want to see that you have the specific technical skills needed for the role. Make sure to:

• List programming languages you know, like Java, Python, or C++
• Include frameworks you have experience with, such as .NET, Angular, or React
• Mention tools you've used, like Git, Jenkins, or Docker
• Specify databases you've worked with, such as MySQL, MongoDB, or Oracle

Avoid simply listing skills without context. Instead, show how you've applied them:

• Java, Python, JavaScript
• Developed a Java-based application for managing customer data, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency
• Created Python scripts to automate data processing tasks, saving the team 10 hours per week

   Show the impact of your work

Don't just list your responsibilities; show the results you achieved. Quantify your impact with specific metrics:

• Developed a new feature that increased user engagement by 30%
• Optimized application performance, reducing load times by 50%
• Contributed to a project that saved the company $100,000 annually

If you don't have exact numbers, estimate the impact of your work:

• Built a tool that significantly reduced the time spent on manual testing
• Implemented a new system that greatly improved the team's collaboration and productivity

   Include relevant projects

Showcase your skills and initiative by including personal projects or contributions to open-source projects. This is especially important if you have limited professional experience.

When listing projects:

• Briefly describe the project and its purpose
• Specify your role and the technologies you used
• Highlight the project's impact or any unique challenges you faced

Personal Project: Movie Recommendation System Developed a Python-based movie recommendation system using collaborative filtering techniques. Utilized the MovieLens dataset and achieved an accuracy of 85% in predicting user preferences. The project showcased skills in data processing, machine learning, and algorithm implementation.

   Tailor your resume to the job

Customize your resume for each job application to show that you're a strong fit for the specific role. Here's how:

• Read the job description carefully and identify the key skills and requirements
• Prioritize the skills and experiences that match the job description
• Use similar language and terminology as the job posting
• Remove or minimize irrelevant information

For example, if a job emphasizes expertise in a specific programming language:

• Proficient in various programming languages, including Java, Python, and C++
• Expert in Java with 5+ years of experience developing large-scale applications
• Led a team of Java developers to create a high-performance trading platform

   Showcase your soft skills

While technical skills are crucial, employers also value soft skills that enable you to work effectively in a team. Highlight your:

• Communication skills: Show how you've collaborated with others or presented complex ideas
• Problem-solving abilities: Describe how you've approached challenges and found innovative solutions
• Leadership experience: Mention any times you've mentored others or taken the lead on a project
• Adaptability: Show how you've learned new technologies or adjusted to changing priorities

For example:

Led a cross-functional team of developers, designers, and product managers to launch a new mobile app. Communicated regularly with stakeholders, adapted to changing requirements, and successfully delivered the project on time and within budget.

   Keep it concise and readable

Hiring managers often review hundreds of resumes for a single position. Make yours stand out by keeping it concise and easy to read:

• Limit your resume to 1-2 pages
• Use clear, simple language and short sentences
• Break up text with bullet points and headings
• Choose a clean, professional font and format
• Proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors
• Long paragraphs or dense blocks of text
• Unnecessary jargon or technical terms
• Inconsistent formatting or hard-to-read fonts
• Personal information like age, marital status, or photo

Remember, your goal is to make it easy for the hiring manager to quickly grasp your qualifications and fit for the role.

Writing Your Software Developer Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. put your name on its own line.

Your name should be the most prominent part of your header, so it's best to put it on its own line. Use a slightly larger font size than the rest of your resume to make it stand out.

• John Smith | Software Developer | [email protected] | 123-456-7890 | New York, NY

Instead, format your header like this:

• John Smith Software Developer [email protected] | 123-456-7890 | New York, NY

2. Include your job title if you're established

If you're an experienced software developer with a clear job title that matches the roles you're targeting, consider adding it to your header. This quickly communicates your career focus to hiring managers. However, if you're earlier in your career or are targeting a variety of roles, leave your job title out to keep your options open.

John Smith Senior Full Stack Developer [email protected] | 123-456-7890 | New York, NY

For entry-level candidates, a simpler header works well:

Jane Doe [email protected] | 123-456-7890 | San Francisco, CA

3. Make your location general

Including your location helps employers understand where you're based. However, for privacy reasons, only include your city and state, not your full address.

• 123 Main St, Apt 2B, Austin, TX 78701

Keep it concise:

• Houston, Texas
• Seattle, WA

If you're searching for remote roles, you can clarify that by saying "Location: Raleigh, NC (Remote)" or simply "Remote".

  Summary

As a software developer, your resume summary is an opportunity to provide a brief overview of your skills, experience, and career goals. While a summary is optional, it can be particularly useful if you are changing careers or have a diverse range of experiences that may not be immediately apparent from the rest of your resume. However, avoid using an objective statement, as it is outdated and does not provide value to the hiring manager.

When crafting your summary, focus on highlighting your most relevant qualifications and achievements, tailoring them to the specific software developer position you are applying for. Use metrics and specific examples to demonstrate your impact and value.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Software Developer resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Software Developer Resume Summary Examples , or Software Developer Resume Objective Examples .

1. Highlight your technical skills and programming languages

Showcase your proficiency in the programming languages and technologies that are most relevant to the software developer position you are targeting. For example:

• Experienced software developer skilled in Java, Python, and C++, with a strong background in agile development methodologies
• Full-stack developer proficient in JavaScript, React, Node.js, and MongoDB, with experience building scalable web applications

Avoid generic statements that do not provide specific information about your skills, such as:

• Knowledgeable in various programming languages
• Familiar with multiple technologies

2. Emphasize your problem-solving abilities and achievements

As a software developer, your ability to solve complex problems and deliver results is crucial. Use your summary to highlight your problem-solving skills and notable achievements. For example:

Results-driven software developer with a proven track record of designing and implementing efficient solutions to complex problems. Developed a machine learning algorithm that improved product recommendation accuracy by 30%, resulting in a 15% increase in customer engagement and sales.

Avoid using vague or cliché statements that do not provide concrete examples of your abilities, such as:

• Excellent problem-solver
• Team player with a strong work ethic

3. Tailor your summary to the specific position

Customize your resume summary to the specific software developer position you are applying for. Research the company and the role to identify the key skills, technologies, and experiences they are looking for, and incorporate them into your summary. For example:

• For a mobile app developer position: Experienced iOS developer with a strong background in Swift, Objective-C, and Xcode, passionate about creating intuitive and engaging mobile experiences
• For a DevOps position: DevOps engineer with expertise in AWS, Docker, and Kubernetes, focused on automating processes and improving system reliability and scalability

Avoid using a generic summary that could apply to any software developer position, as it may not capture the hiring manager's attention or demonstrate your fit for the specific role.

  Experience

The work experience section is the most important part of your software developer resume. It's where you show hiring managers what you've accomplished in your career and how you've made an impact. Use this section to highlight your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the results you've achieved.

Here are some key tips to keep in mind as you write your work experience section:

1. Highlight your technical skills

As a software developer, your technical skills are your biggest selling point. Make sure to showcase the programming languages, frameworks, and tools you've used in each role. For example:

• Developed and maintained web applications using React, Node.js, and MongoDB
• Built RESTful APIs using Spring Boot and MySQL
• Implemented CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and AWS

Don't just list your skills, though. Provide concrete examples of how you used them to solve problems and deliver results.

Use our Targeted Resume tool to make sure you're including the right technical skills for the job you want. It analyzes the job description and your resume to identify gaps in your skills.

2. Quantify your impact

Whenever possible, use metrics to quantify the impact of your work. This helps hiring managers understand the scale and significance of your contributions. For example:

• Reduced page load time by 40% by optimizing database queries and implementing caching
• Increased user engagement by 25% by redesigning the UI and improving site navigation
• Managed a team of 5 developers to deliver a $500K project on time and under budget

If you don't have access to specific metrics, you can still use numbers to provide context, like the size of the team you worked on or the number of users impacted.

Focus on your most recent and relevant experience. If you have older or less relevant roles, you can still include them but cut back on the details. Highlight key accomplishments and skills without going into too much depth.

3. Show your career progression

Hiring managers want to see that you've grown and taken on more responsibility over time. If you've been promoted or taken on leadership roles, make sure to highlight that in your work experience section. For example:

Senior Software Engineer, XYZ Company, 2019-Present - Led a team of 3 junior developers to build a new mobile app from scratch - Mentored and trained new hires on best practices for code quality and testing Software Engineer, XYZ Company, 2016-2019 - Collaborated with cross-functional teams to design and implement new features for the company's flagship product - Contributed to open source projects and spoke at local tech meetups

If you don't have a traditional career path, you can still show progression by highlighting increasing levels of responsibility or the impact of your work over time.

Use strong action verbs to describe your contributions, like "developed", "optimized", "architected", and "led". These help paint a picture of what you actually did in each role.

  Education

Your education section shows recruiters that you have the necessary educational background and knowledge for the software developer role. It also gives them an idea of your career trajectory and additional skills you may have gained through your education.

In this section, we'll cover what to include in your education section and tips for making it stand out to potential employers.

1. List your degrees in reverse chronological order

Start with your most recent or highest degree first, and work backwards from there. For each degree, include:

• Name of the institution
• Location of the institution
• Degree obtained
• Field of study
• Graduation year (if within the past 10 years)

Here's an example of how to format your education:

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science University of California, Berkeley Berkeley, CA Graduated: May 2020

2. Include relevant coursework, projects, and achievements

If you are a recent graduate or have limited work experience, you can boost your education section by including:

• Relevant coursework
• Projects you completed
• Academic achievements or awards

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering San Jose State University San Jose, CA Graduated: June 2022 Relevant Coursework: Data Structures and Algorithms, Web Application Development, Database Systems Senior Project: Developed a mobile app for a local non-profit using React Native

This additional information shows employers the specific skills and experience you gained during your education that are applicable to the software developer role.

3. Consider adding a 'Certifications' section

Industry certifications demonstrate your expertise in specific technologies or methodologies. If you have completed any relevant certifications, you can either list them under your education section or create a separate 'Certifications' section.

Some popular software development certifications include:

• AWS Certified Developer - Associate
• Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

Certifications: AWS Certified Developer - Associate, Amazon Web Services, 2021 Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer, Oracle, 2020

4. Tailor your education section to your level of experience

The importance and length of your education section will depend on your level of professional experience. Here are some guidelines:

• Recent graduates: Emphasize your education and include more details like relevant coursework, projects, and GPA (if above 3.5).
• Mid-level professionals: Keep your education section concise, focusing on your degrees and any notable achievements. Omit graduation dates if it has been more than 10 years.
• Master of Science in Computer Science, Stanford University
• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, California Polytechnic State University

At the senior level, your professional experience and accomplishments hold more weight than your educational background.

Action Verbs For Software Developer Resumes

There is a popular misconception about software developers. People often think that it is a merely technical profession, neglecting the value of soft skills like communication and resilience. A successful developer is able to translate highly complex requirements into actionable plans. 

Now, how can you demonstrate this in your resume? By using effective communication. Action verbs will help you do that by streamlining your work experience and precisely expressing your responsibilities. You can use bullet points to illustrate your experience and start the phrase with a strong action verb. We have curated some of the most relevant action verbs for your developer resume.

• Strengthened
• Troubleshooted
• Architected

For more related action verbs, visit Software Engineering Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Software Developer Resumes

Skills for software developer resumes.

Software engineering covers a wide spectrum of the development production cycle, so developers must have a holistic set of skills. This includes knowledge of the integrated development environment, programming languages, frameworks, data structure, and troubleshooting. 

You should use the skills section as an opportunity to display your potential. Don’t leave anything behind, but try to be as industry-specific as possible. Take a look below to see some relevant skills in the software development field.

• Software Development
• Agile Methodologies
• Cloud Computing
• Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
• Software Project Management
• Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Enterprise Architecture
• Distributed Systems
• Software Architecture
• Microservices
• Software as a Service (SaaS)
• Web Services
• Integration
• Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA)
• Enterprise Software
• Technical Leadership

How To Write Your Skills Section On a Software Developer Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Software Developer Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Software Developer job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Other engineering resumes, c, c++, and c# developer.

Technical Support

• Software Engineer Resume Guide

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3 Real Software Sales Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Software Sales Resume

Professional software sales resume, modern software sales resume.

• Software Sales Resume Writing 101

You know software, SQL and programming languages inside and out. Your emotional intelligence is off the charts, making it a breeze to anticipate objections and lead your prospects to an enthusiastic yes. 

But when you’re selling yourself, how do you convince recruiters to go for your sales pitch? If you’re not sure how to capture your software sales skills on your resume , we can help.

We’ve helped thousands of job seekers in software sales move on to bigger and better software sales jobs. The following three software sales resume templates offer a starting point as you create your resume .  

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Related resume examples

• Sales assistant
• Outside sales
• Entry level sales
• Digital sales

What Really Matters: Your Skills and Experience

Software sales recruiters look for technical know-how and strong sales skills. Getting specific in your resume with past software and sales-related experiences shows recruiters that you’re ready to boost their sales numbers.

But how do you know what the right software sales skills are? Check the job description! Your dream tech company gives you the playbook for your skills section.

Refer to the job posting to learn more about the tech and sales skills they need. If you can say you have those skills — and have the work experience to back it up — put them on your resume. 

9 Top Software Sales Skills

• Negotiation
• POS systems
• Interpersonal communication

Sample Software Sales Work Experience Bullet Points

Your impact in software sales is your top priority in the work experience section. Every bullet point should show that you can sell software to even the toughest prospect.

So how do you prove your sales prowess? You use measurable outcomes: profit increases, sales increases, dormant accounts revived. Gather the facts and figures that prove you pulled your current software company out of a sales slump or took it to the next level. 

Did you increase profits by 15%? Did you generate millions of dollars in sales? Describe the actions you took, the skills you used and the outcomes to show your impact.

Follow these examples:

• Conceptualized an innovative sales plan that increased annual profits by 23%
• Exceeded sales goals by 85% after implementing new client management protocols
• Generated over $4M in revenue in 2022
• Increased sales for 3 quarters in a row

Top 5 Tips for Your Software Sales Resume

• Employers want to know you can sell their software. Show them with concrete numbers how you’ve impacted sales in your current position. Highlight specific sales skills, such as reviving dead accounts or implementing customer management skills. 
• Selling software isn’t the same as selling general office supplies or cars. You need to know the ins and outs of software. Describe how you’ve gained tech experience through other careers, such as working as a software engineer or in IT support. 
• You spent all this time perfecting your resume. Why customize it (and your AI cover letter ) for each job? You can position yourself as a top candidate when your resume matches the sales and technical skills, software type and programming languages the employer wants. This can be as simple as rephrasing statements or putting more emphasis on key mentions from the job description. 
• A laundry list of skills and work experience doesn’t tell the recruiter why they should choose you. Highlight how you used those skills and what impact they made on the software company’s sales. You’re giving proof that you not only have those skills, but you also know how to apply them. 
• You don’t need to have experience in every type of software or programming language. Demonstrating expertise in one or two areas is often more impressive to an employer than a little knowledge in lots of areas. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• List your specific software sales experience based on types of software, sales and tech skills and impact. Be specific with the programs you’ve used and how your sales numbers helped the company. 
• Save real estate on your resume for skills and experiences. Career objectives are usually generic and don’t highlight the impact you have on your company. Plus, the recruiter is likely to skip that section anyway. Use your space for the meat of your resume — proof that you can take the company’s software sales to the next level. 
• You need a strong technical and sales background to land a software sales job. On the tech side, skills like SQL, POS systems and various programming languages grab the attention of recruiters. On the sales side, show you have strong negotiation and interpersonal skills to convince prospects to buy your software. 

Job Skills to List on Your Resume (And What to Exclude)

Showcasing your capabilities is critical to professional success, especially during a job search. The first step of almost every job application process is to submit a resume. With so much riding on that first impression, reflecting desired job skills in your resume is key.

Employers and hiring managers aren't just looking for employees who have the hard skills needed for their job position. They are also looking for employees with important soft skills, so it's important to reflect both types of skills on your resume.

Here are some in-demand skills to list on your resume:

• Trustworthiness.
• Self-starter.
• Adaptability.
• Growth mindset.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Time management.
• Virtual communication skills.
• Succinct writing.
• Collaboration.
• Deadline-driven.
• Ability to thrive in chaotic environments.
• Analysis and insight.
• Accountability.
• Commitment.

1. Trustworthiness

On the heels of the Great Resignation and candidates ghosting during the interview, hiring and onboarding processes, many employers are targeting candidates that show signs of trustworthiness and dependability. According to a recent study by ManpowerGroup , reliability is the top soft skill that employers worldwide are looking for. One way to show this in your resume is to show a progression of responsibility with one employer or that you have worked with one manager or team in more than one setting.

2. Self-Starter

Employers want to hire employees who are self-motivated. Capture how you have identified and acted on opportunities to improve quality or speed, boost morale, increase productivity, or minimize risks. Additionally, include how you are able to lead initiatives, projects or teams even when you may not be the official manager.

3. Adaptability

Have you been able to stay productive during continuous change? A key soft skill to show in your resume is your ability to adapt and thrive. Describe how you evolved your way of working during periods of change.

4. Growth Mindset

How have you challenged yourself or motivated others around you to learn something new or expand their thinking? The ability to learn is a learned skill in itself that improves the more you do it. It is why recent students are often better equipped to acquire and apply knowledge more quickly than peers who have not been in a learning environment recently. Capture how you have added new hard skills and sought to challenge yourself with new approaches.

5. Problem-Solving Skills

Rapidly changing technology and evolving work environments have led many teams and companies into unchartered territories. Professionals that have the ability to solve problems in new or difficult situations are better equipped to tackle future challenges that may not have a best practice or rule book to follow. Outline how you approached and resolved problems.

6. Time Management

Balancing never-ending emails, Slack messages, Zoom meetings and projects is tricky. Managers want to be able to gauge productivity. Be sure to capture how you manage time, efficiency and results when writing your resume.

7. Virtual Communication Skills

It is challenging to build effective relationships without in-person interaction. Show evidence of how you have expanded or strengthened relationships in and outside of your company using virtual communication tools . This can be as simple as listing the digital tools you use – such as Teams, Slack and Zoom. You can also write more descriptive impact statements. For example, explain how you created an online presentation template implemented by the sales team that resulted in 10 new deals. You can also explain how you increased engagement in virtual all-hands meetings by creating polls and encouraging the use of Q&A features.

8. Succinct Writing

With the rise in video meetings and enterprise messaging tools came the rise in Q&A and chat responses. Success with these platforms requires mastery of the art of getting to the point – succinct and well-written questions and responses are key. How you write your resume (and cover letter) is evidence of this competency. Don't overlook the importance of concise and relevant content in your resume.

An effective resume shows – not tells – how you add value. Yes, you need to list your responsibilities, but you also need to show what happened because you were there. In other words, call out your impact. For example, if you are responsible for recruiting and hiring and you would say it is one of your key strengths, include how many people you hired, how quickly you made those hires, and how many of your hires have outlasted the average tenure of your firm or your industry.

10. Collaboration

Every job description asks for "cross-functional collaboration." This means you need to know how to play well in the sandbox with other people who aren't your immediate co-workers. To illustrate your collegial approach, describe any "enterprise-wide task forces" you were invited to join. For example, communicate how your team was able to move through the financial planning and analysis approval process two times faster than other managers because of your track record of quality work. In short, show what was accomplished when you partnered across the company.

11. Deadline-Driven

In a competitive, technology-infused environment, even results with a 24-hour turnaround can seem 25 hours past due. The most productive employees get stuff done fast and have tactics for setting and exceeding deadline-driven expectations. Give evidence of your ability to work under pressure.

12. Ability to Thrive in Chaotic Environments

When speed is king, many organizations act before all options are assessed. Employees who can survive and even thrive in cultures where priorities shift, variables change and goals are moving targets are in greater demand than those looking for stable and fixed roles. Most growing companies are in flux and they want employees who can function even without a fully developed structure.

13. Analysis and Insights

No role or industry is untouched by data and analysis. If you are a doctor, you likely keep tabs on satisfaction ratings or statistics and information about the patients you treat. Are you a delivery driver? You may have data that tracks your routes, delivery times, number of deliveries made, and lost or damaged packages. Know the quantifiable metrics for your profession and address what those indicators show about you. Including analytical hard skills on your resume gives you a competitive advantage .

14. Accountability

The best teams are known for how the members take ownership of the work and the results. Describe which aspects of your department you are accountable for and how you maintain a high level of quality.

15. Commitment

Use your resume as an opportunity to show your commitment and professional passion to your career, industry, profession and your skill development. Employees who are invested in these areas often perform at the highest levels because their efforts are not just for a paycheck but also to contribute to their larger community or reputation. Your resume should show memberships in a professional association, participation in an industry conference, noted thought leadership on related topics, classes you have taken and more.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

Soft skills are traits that come naturally, whereas hard skills are technical skills related to your job and industry. Soft skills are learned throughout your whole life and hard skills are generally learned through education and training. While soft skills can be used across different industries and a wide variety of circumstances, hard skills are used for specific tasks and can be industry-specific. Hiring managers tend to give priority to job candidates with strong soft skills since soft skills are harder to teach.

Your resume should underline your unique combination of hard skills and soft skills. If your resume is too hard-skill-driven, a hiring manager may discard your resume. On the other hand, if it's too soft-skill-driven, they may not feel that you have the necessary education or technical qualifications for the role.

What to Exclude From Your Resume

Your home address. It is not needed at the time of application and it can have some privacy or discrimination risks.

Titles to contact information. For example, instead of "Phone: 555-123-4567" you can just list the number "555-123-4567." It will be recognized for what it is.

Years of experience . First, job posts never ask for "two decades of managerial experience," so writing that as the lead in your summary earns you no points for applicant tracking systems or with the recruiter. Second, a reader can add up your years of experience (or make a pretty good guess) with your work history listed on your resume. Why give up your most valuable resume real estate to words that add no value to your candidacy?

Subjective or adjective-heavy soft skills. For example: Don't use phrases such as "people person," "meticulous attention to detail" or "team player." Recruiters and hiring authorities see hundreds of resumes. Subjective descriptions do not add any value. Hiring professionals have seen or met enough detail-oriented people who leave periods off sentences and forget to check spelling. If you cannot demonstrate or validate that you have a soft skill, it doesn't help your candidacy.

Job Skills Examples

These three examples show the job skills different professionals may list on their resumes.

Account Executive Job Skills

An account executive may demonstrate collaboration skills on her resume by saying something like, "Skilled at developing cohesive, energetic and highly successful teams that consistently exceed company goals and objectives over 15%."

Marketing Executive Job Skills

A marketing executive may demonstrate his impact at his position by saying something like, "Managed a team of 10 marketing consultants responsible for event management and other engagement activities. Leadership supported team customer relationship processes (CRM) improvement of 75%."

Software Engineer Job Skills

A software engineer can highlight her soft skills by listing them in her core competencies section. For example, "Problem resolution strategist, clear/concise communicator, quick to learn new processes."

In conclusion, discerning hiring managers are looking for candidates who can walk in with the skills to do the job immediately. Make sure your resume reflects a balance of the qualifications and soft skills most in demand for the role you are targeting. A customized, well-written resume is a critical component of a successful modern job search.

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Taking a flight to search for jobs in this highly competitive job market, a strong resume is your passport to job opportunities. But what makes a resume stand out from the crowd? It’s the skills that you build over time that make you a valuable asset to your potential employer. Whether you are a professional with years of experience or a fresher looking to start your career journey, knowing the art of selecting the right job skills is paramount.

This blog will take you on a journey to discover the 15 best skills to put on a resume. These skills are divided into soft skills and hard skills, along with examples that reflect your character and technical expertise. Let’s board on this flight of secrets to creating a winning resume that captures attention and swiftly lands the job of your dreams!

On a resume, hard skills are technical abilities or industry-specific skills that require knowledge and qualifications. These skills are typically quantifiable and can be learned through training, education, and work experience. For example, programming languages, data analysis, coding, and project management.

Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal skills and qualities that do not require training. These are character traits and creative abilities of an individual that come naturally and help you adapt to a workplace. For example, communication, teamwork, and time management.

While hard skills demonstrate technical expertise and soft skills highlight your interpersonal strengths, both are important skills to include on a resume. These key skills are essential for achieving professional success and should be strategically incorporated into your resume to demonstrate that you are a capable and well-rounded candidate.

Read More: How to Write a Good Resume Objective? (With 10+ Samples)

• Soft Skills Example – Best Soft Skills to Put on Your Resume

Effective communication is an important skill in any workplace to convey ideas clearly and collaborate with others effectively. This is a must-have skill for a job at all levels.

Leadership qualities help you foster a positive environment in a workplace. This skill set involves guiding and motivating a team to achieve common goals resulting in increased team productivity.

Time management is a very important skill to have in the workplace. This job skill is an ability to prioritize and use time efficiently to meet specific deadlines and complete tasks to achieve goals. This skill helps you plan your work accordingly and to stay productive throughout the process. 

Problem-solving involves critical thinking, identifying problems and complex issues analyzing them, and implementing innovative solutions to overcome those challenges. 

Adaptability is a great skill to possess. It’s an ability to adjust and adapt to new situations, tasks, and work environments. Adding this skill to your resume will help your employer know that you can navigate between different projects and industries and that you can fit well with the workspace and culture.

This is a great skill to put on a resume. Employers are always on the lookout for a candidate who is an amazing team player. Teamwork involves collaborating with the team to achieve common goals and projects. A team player helps build a supportive work environment through active participation and idea-sharing.

Giving out quality work is a required skill at any job. Attention to detail involves thoroughness and accuracy in tasks to ensure quality outcomes are achieved. 

An organization hunts for candidates who think out of the box, and can bring innovative ideas and creative solutions to the table, and therefore is a good skill to list on your resume.

Organizational skills are the ability to multitask and manage competing priorities effectively, resulting in streamlined workflows and increased productivity.

• Hard Skills Examples – Best Hard Skills to Put on Your Resume

Being well-versed with a diverse range of technical tools and software adds significant value and strength to your resume. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, and project management platforms such as Asana and Trello are just a few examples of essential technical skills. These tools can help you work more efficiently and show that you can easily adjust to different technology setups.

Employers seek candidates who possess a solid aptitude for analyzing data metrics, recognizing industry trends, and discovering patterns and insights that guide business choices. Having expertise in data analysis tools and methodologies is an extremely valuable hard skill to showcase on your resume.

Project management is a hard skill that allows you to plan, implement, and manage projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. Showcasing this skill on your resume proves your capability to manage complicated tasks, collaborate with colleagues, and juggle various projects simultaneously.

If you like attracting customers and promoting products and services then marketing strategy is the best skill to put on a resume.

If you are proficient in programming languages such as Python, java, and C++ and possess experience in developing software applications and websites then adding this hard skill to your resume can significantly enhance your candidacy.

Knowing multiple languages like English, Spanish, German, or any other Indian regional language shows that you are culturally aware, adaptable, and can connect with people from various backgrounds. Being fluent in different languages can be advantageous in the business world.

Now that you’ve had a quick look at these resume skills, it’s time to customize your resume to match the job you’re applying for. By incorporating these skills effectively, you can boost your chances of landing your dream job. Make sure to showcase your top skills and accomplishments to stand out as a top candidate in the eyes of recruiters.

Read More: Resume Headline For Freshers: 30+ Examples and Tips

Crafting attractive resumes is now easier than ever, generate creative resumes with Apna’s resume builder effortlessly with just one click to impress your recruiters.

The Apna App is your one-stop destination for finding jobs , connecting with HRs, creating resumes , and preparing for interviews with ease. Download the Apna App today and elevate your career.

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