Top 7 Computer skills for CV
Not only is this a great list of computer skills for CV, it can also increase your chances of getting hired.
In Nigeria, most jobs require at least a basic understanding of computers, and some may require more specialized knowledge.
Employers expect candidates to possess excellent computer skills, regardless of their job position. Therefore, it is essential to improve your computer skills before highlighting them on your CV.
This article by lofty Scholars will discuss some of the most crucial computer skills needed in today’s industry, as well as computer skills to include on your CV. Additionally, we will provide answers to some frequently asked questions.
What are computer skills?
Computer skills refer to the ability to use and create technology with computers. This includes a wide range of abilities, from basic tasks such as using email to more complex ones like assembling motherboards. Generally, computer skills can be divided into two categories: software skills and hardware skills.
What should I write in computer skills for CV?
Examples of computer skills for resumes
- Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Composed and sent over 150 emails a week using Microsoft Outlook.
- Created and formatted simple office budget spreadsheets on Microsoft Excel.
- Wrote, edited and formatted documents on Microsoft Word.
Is computer proficiency a skill?
The ICAS Computer Skills Assessment Framework defines proficient computer skills to encompass various areas, such as internet and email usage, computer proficiency, word processing, graphics and multimedia creation, spreadsheet and database management, as well as programming and scripting abilities.
Why Basic computer skills for cv important?
Computer skills are crucial in today’s job market as the use of technology has become prevalent in almost every industry. Proficiency in various computer programs demonstrates your ability to adapt to new technologies, work efficiently, and communicate effectively. It can also increase your productivity and help you accomplish tasks more efficiently, which is highly valued in many workplaces.
Furthermore, possessing advanced computer skills can potentially lead to higher-paying job opportunities and promotions as you are able to take on more responsibilities and contribute more to the success of a company. Overall, computer skills are an essential tool to have in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving job market.
Computer skills For CV
1. Computer fundamentals
Today’s economy has made computer fundamentals an essential part of many job responsibilities. With the advancement of technology and digitization of many workplaces, having a basic understanding of how computers work is vital for various job roles. Even non-technical jobs require computer skills for basic tasks like emailing, creating documents, and researching.
Including computer fundamentals on your CV showcases to potential employers that you possess a basic understanding of computers and can use them effectively. This knowledge can set you apart from other candidates and make you more appealing to employers in various job fields.
2. Computer Software: Microsoft Office suite, Excel, PowerPoint etc.
Many Nigerian companies utilize various software packages for their daily operations. Having experience with these common tools such as word processing or productivity applications like Microsoft Word for organizing daily tasks, spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel for managing data and creating charts, and presentation programs like Microsoft PowerPoint for presenting to colleagues or clients would be very beneficial.
3. Basic Internet skills
Having basic internet skills is essential for effectively and efficiently using the internet. These skills include proficiency in web browsing, email, and online research, and they are increasingly important in today’s job market. Many jobs require the use of the internet to perform essential tasks, such as researching market trends, communicating with clients and vendors, and using software tools to create and analyze data, especially in the field of marketing.
It is recommended to include basic internet skills in a CV, either as part of a list of technical abilities or as a standalone section. This will demonstrate to potential employers that the job candidate is comfortable with technology and is able to use the internet to perform job-related tasks.
Additionally, it shows that the candidate can navigate different websites and use various internet tools to find and evaluate information. These skills are especially beneficial for jobs that require research, data analysis, and report generation.
4. Communication Tools
Having the ability to use applications like Gmail and Slack with ease, and having a basic understanding of their functionalities, can be beneficial for interacting with clients or partners outside the company, as well as for collaborating with coworkers internally or remotely.
It is particularly important to be proficient in using Slack to stay informed about team meetings and project activity.
In addition to this, possessing communication skills like knowledge of video conferencing tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, as well as proficiency with instant messaging programs, can be valuable. For certain specialized jobs, managing email marketing systems like Mailchimp or HubSpot may be necessary, but this will usually be specified in the job description.
5. Specialist computer skills
When applying for a job as an Information Technology (IT) specialist, it is essential to have a fundamental understanding of programming skills and tools such as Java, HTML, Python, etc., and to list them on your CV.
For a position as a graphics designer, you must be familiar with software such as Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, or Illustrator, which are photo-editing software. Knowing the specific skill set required for the job you are applying for will make it easier for you to customize your skills to match the position’s needs.
6. Social media
If your job is in marketing, media, or administration, it might be necessary for you to have a basic knowledge of popular social networking sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
This could involve performing routine administrative tasks like responding to emails and comments. It may also require advanced analytical abilities to monitor and summarize outcomes.
7. Online storage
Cloud storage or online storage is the act of storing data on remote servers that can be accessed over the internet. When it comes to a CV, online storage can be advantageous for several reasons.
First, it enables you to access your CV from any device with an internet connection, making it simple to apply for jobs from any location.
Second, it helps to ensure that your CV is backed up and protected from data loss due to hardware failure or other issues.
Third, online storage makes it easy to share your CV with others, such as a potential employer, by simply providing them with a link to the file, rather than having to email a large attachment.
Using online storage also allows you to keep your CV updated by enabling you to make changes to the file and save it, so it can be updated on your profile in no time.
Overall, online storage can help to make the job application process more convenient and efficient, while also helping to protect your important career-related data.