Computer skills on a resume: how to list them + examples!

In today’s digital workplace, computer skills are no longer optional, and you need to feature them on your resume. No matter your field—healthcare, education, retail—you’ll need strong computer skills to stay current in your role. And if you’re looking for a new job, considering computer skills for your resume is a must as it shows employers that you have the skills necessary to be successful. But how can you show off your skills in the best possible light?

In this article, we’ll discuss:

• What are computer skills?

• What should you put on your resume for computer skills?

• Listing computer skills on a resume

• How do you say that you’re “good with computers” on your resume?

• 4 examples of how to list your computer skills on a resume

What are computer skills?

Having computer skills means that you can use hardware, software, and other digital devices to perform aspects of your job. You can have basic computer literacy, such as using word processing programs or you may have more advanced skills as used in IT fields. No matter your industry, though, you’d have a difficult time avoiding computers in your day-to-day job, as they’re used in a variety of fields such as finance, manufacturing, and more.

What should I put on my resume for computer skills?

You should include both basic computer skills and those that are required for your job. For example, you can include any of the following based on the job you’re applying for and the industry you work in:

• Basic operating systems. This includes Windows, Linux, or MacOS.

• Presentation software. Examples are PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Keynote.

• Productivity software. Word, video conferencing, or social media management fall under this .

• Computer programming skills. Popular ones are HTML, Java, or Python.

• Graphic design software. This can consist of Photoshop, desktop publishing, or video apps.

• Database management tools. SQL or data analytics are examples.

• Collaboration tools. Skype, Zoom, or Google Hangouts align with this.

Remember, you don’t want to list every single computer skill you have, only the ones relevant to your desired position. For instance, if you know CAD, you don't need to list it on your resume if you're applying for an Office Manager role.

How do I list my computer skills? 

For most jobs in today’s market, basic computer literacy is a must. But don't assume that a potential employer will know you possess the skills—add them on your resume. Have at least a basic competency in whatever programs you include, and don’t fabricate skills you don’t actually have, as there might be a skill test at some point in the interviewing process. 

There are several ways and places you can list computer skills for a resume. In the skills section of your resume, list ones tailored to the job you're applying for. If you have an extensive computer background, provide them as a separate list so your resume doesn’t look cluttered and the important information is highlighted.

The professional summary is another place, which gives a brief overview of your experience and your top skills.

The job history section allows you to utilize your computer skills in both your accomplishments and job duties. Provide context about what skills you used, how you used them, and the results of your work. The other sections include your education, certifications, or training. Including your computer skills in these areas will make sure that they are noticed by the hiring manager and emphasize how you use technology to be efficient, remain productive, stay organized, and complete your tasks.

What about listing your skill level?

Hiring managers want to know how proficient you are with your computer skills and what applications you can use. While you can list a qualifier in your skills section, it’s more effective to give examples of how you used these computer skills. This will give context and show the hiring manager your level of proficiency.

If you do choose to provide your proficiency level, you should use these parameters to describe them:

• Basic. You are familiar with approximately 25% of all the functions and utilities of a software application or know how to detect and repair 25% of hardware issues.

• Intermediate. You grasp about 75% of all the functions of a program, or understand how to detect and repair at least half of the hardware difficulties.

• Advanced. You have a strong knowledge of all the functions of a software application and can repair any problems or malfunctions.

• Proficient.  You're a pro with that software or hardware and can quickly troubleshoot and repair any issues.

How can you say that you’re good with computers on your resume?

There are several ways you can include your computer skills on your resume to ensure the recruiter knows you’re proficient. In the skill section, if you have extensive tech skills, list them separately from other skills. Include computer-based accomplishments in your bullet points, demonstrating how your company benefited by using quantifiable data. Use action verbs to describe your computer skills, such as automated, engineered, deployed, or analyzed.Using these methods will show, rather than tell, a hiring manager that you have competency using technology in your work.

4 Examples of how to list your computer skills on your resume

How you list your computer skills on your resume will depend on the section. Your skills section or education section might just be a list of software/hardware in which you're proficient or have training, but your professional summary and job history will require more detail.

Here are four examples:

1. Listing computer skills in your skills section

If you have a long list of computer skills, give them their own section and provide sub-categories like languages or operating systems if necessary. If a computer skill was listed in the job description, place it at the top of your list. 

Let’s say you’re a UX/UI designer:

Or a software engineer:

2. Incorporating computer skills in your professional summary

The professional summary section of your resume is a great place for highlighting tech skills. It’s a brief introduction that includes your most important skills and accomplishments. By scanning the professional summary, hiring managers can determine if you’re going to be a good fit for the position. 

3. Listing computer-based accomplishments

If you’ve used any of your computer skills in your achievements, include them in your job history, setting them off with bullet points and incorporating quantifiable data.

4. Including computer skills in your education and training sections

You’ll want to include your college degree, no matter what field you’re in. If you have taken any computer or job-relevant coursework, you can include that as well under your degree information.

If you’ve taken any computer courses, had any online training, or have a degree in a computer-based field, include them in the education or additional training/certifications sections. List the certification title, the name of the issuing organization, and the date it was earned (and if  not completed yet, list the anticipated date of issue). 

What if your computer skills aren’t up to par?

If your skills are out of date or nonexistent, don't despair. You don't have to go back to college to become tech-savvy. No matter your skill level, you can improve. In fact, a 2022 study by Amazon Web Services and Gallup showed that employees who use intermediate or advanced digital skills on the job “earn 40% and 65% higher salaries, respectively,” than employees who don’t use a computer in their job duties. So having strong computer skills will raise your earning potential! 

How can you improve your computer skills? Sign up for courses at your community college, local library, or online through Udemy, for example. Find co-workers who are willing to share their knowledge. See if your company offers computer training to its employees. If you’re unsure about how a computer function works, check for an answer online.

Being tech-savvy is a requirement in today’s market, and the demand for computer skills (in all fields) will only grow. With relevant computer/software skills on your resume, you can demonstrate to a potential employer that you meet the job requirements.

Need help putting your resume together? Career.io has a Resume Examples tool where you can access our free database of expert-designed, eye-catching templates to help you build a great resume—fast.

Key takeaways

1. In today’s digital workplace, computer skills are no longer optional, and you need to feature them on your resume.

2. On your resume, add both basic computer skills and those required for your job. 

3. List your computer skills in your professional summary, skills section, job history, and education/training section.

4. There are several ways to improve your computer skills, such as employer-sponsored training, online courses, or working with a colleague.