
Essential Computer Skills For CV: Top 15 with Examples
The world around us is becoming increasingly ‘techy.’ Moreover, strong computer skills are an essential resource, no matter your career path. Think of them as special tools that help you work smarter and faster, making you a more valuable asset to any company.
This guide will show you some of the 15 most important computer skills for getting a job. The best part? Most of them are easier to learn than you might think!
We’ll break it down into simple steps so anyone can learn basic essential tech skills with a little practice. Moreover, Get ready to upgrade your CV and confidently prepare for job interviews to grab that dream job!
Table of Contents
The Microsoft Office Suite, which includes programs like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneDrive, is an essential skill for most jobs today and can be a game-changer in job interviews.
Word helps you create and tidy up documents, Excel is great for sorting out data and doing sums, PowerPoint helps you organise presentations, and OneDrive lets you store files online and share them easily.
Being good at these programs is not just a bonus; many employers expect it. Learning to use Microsoft Office skills can help you stand out when applying for jobs.

Google Workspace is an online tool that can really boost your CV. It includes Google Drive for storing files, Docs for writing, Sheets for spreadsheets, Calendar for scheduling, and Gmail for emails. The best part about Google Workspace is that you can use it from anywhere with an internet connection.
These essential skills make it perfect for modern workplaces that value flexibility and online collaboration. Adding these skills to your CV shows potential employers that you’re comfortable with essential, up-to-date technology, making you a stronger candidate for any job.
Data entry skills are incredibly important in many jobs today, especially those that require entering information into databases or spreadsheets accurately and quickly. Moreover, being good at data entry means you can handle large amounts of information without mistakes, which is essential for maintaining accurate records and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
When you list data entry as a skill for CVs, it demonstrates to potential employers that you are both efficient and detail-oriented. Consequently, this can make your CV stand out in job applications because many businesses highly value the ability to manage data effectively. Additionally, adding data entry skills to your CV can give you an edge in job applications, particularly for roles in administration, finance, and any sector that relies heavily on data.
File management skills are extremely valuable in today’s job market, especially when organising files and folders on your computer. Effective file management means you can quickly find and access documents when you need them, which boosts productivity and saves time. This skill is particularly important in roles that handle large volumes of information, such as administrative, clerical, and management positions.
By demonstrating good file management on your CV, you show potential employers that you are organised and efficient, qualities that are highly prized in any workplace. Additionally, mastering file management can help reduce the risk of errors or lost data, making your work more reliable and your profile more attractive to employers. Listing file management as an essential skill on your CV can really help set you apart from other candidates.

Tech maintenance skills are increasingly essential in today’s job market, particularly as workplaces become more reliant on technology. Moreover, being skilled in tech maintenance involves troubleshooting, updating, and maintaining various software and hardware systems to ensure they function smoothly. This capability is particularly critical for roles that rely on IT systems’ continuous operation, such as IT support, system administration, and network management.
Including tech maintenance skills on your CV can significantly strengthen your job applications, as it demonstrates to potential employers that you can handle and resolve technical issues, preventing downtime and boosting workplace productivity. Activities related to this skill include administering systems, installing applications, and setting up system configurations. This makes you a valuable asset to any team, helping to keep operations running efficiently and reducing the risk of technological disruptions. Highlighting these skills can set you apart in fields where technical proficiency and problem-solving are highly valued.
Strong typing and writing skills are in high demand for almost every job today. Moreover, good typing skills mean you can finish tasks quickly and efficiently, which is important in any job where time matters. Similarly, strong writing skills are key to creating clear, engaging, professional documents, emails, and other content. These skills are particularly valuable in roles that involve managing content strategies and communicating ideas effectively.
By listing good typing and writing abilities on your CV, you show potential employers that you can handle the digital demands of your job and communicate well. Additionally, this is an essential skill in many roles, from admin support to management, where you might need to write reports, create presentations, or keep up with daily emails. Highlighting these skills on your CV can also prepare you for job interviews, helping you stand out by showing you can add value through efficient communication and productivity.
07. Multimedia
Good multimedia skills are now essential for many jobs. This means being able to add videos, images, and other media to documents and presentations to make them more interesting and effective. Knowing how to use computer programs for design and video editing, like Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator, is really valuable. These are key computer skills that can make your CV stand out.
Employers often look for people who can create appealing and engaging content, which is essential for roles in marketing, education, and communications. By showing that you have these multimedia skills on your CV, you demonstrate that you can handle modern digital tasks, making you a strong candidate for many job opportunities.
08. Web Browsers
Being proficient in using web browsers is an essential computer skill for any modern workplace. Being good at using the Internet to find information is essential for any job these days. This means knowing how to search for what you need and checking if the websites you find are trustworthy. It helps you thoroughly research and stay updated on what’s happening in your field!
Familiarity with the main web browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Internet Explorer is important because each browser can have different navigation methods, shortcuts, and available apps and extensions.
Understanding these differences and how to use these tools efficiently can greatly enhance your productivity and competency at work. Including web browser proficiency on your CV demonstrates to potential employers that you are adept at sourcing and managing information online, a skill that is increasingly important in virtually all job sectors. By showcasing this skill, you make your CV more attractive, highlighting your readiness to handle the digital demands of modern professional environments.

Email organisation is an essential computer skill in today’s professional environment. Mastering email involves more than just writing and sending messages; it includes creating folders, organising files, and sharing documents and threads efficiently. These skills ensure that you can manage your communications effectively, which is crucial in any job role.
In addition, email marketing is becoming a must-have skill. It involves crafting targeted marketing messages, understanding audience segments, and analysing the impact of campaigns. Proficiency in email marketing tools can significantly enhance your capabilities in roles related to marketing, customer relations, and communications.
Including both email organisation and email marketing skills on your CV demonstrates your ability to handle essential communication tools and marketing platforms. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers that you are well-equipped to manage and execute digital communication strategies effectively. This is increasingly important in a job market where digital competencies are highly valued.
Social media skills are now an essential key piece of digital literacy for many professional roles. Moreover, knowing how to use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok goes beyond chatting with friends; it’s about leveraging these tools for networking, marketing, and engaging with a wide audience.
Furthermore, having these skills makes your CV stand out. It shows you know how to connect with people, share content, and build awareness about a brand. This is particularly important for jobs in marketing, public relations, customer service, and even human resources.
Additionally, adding your social media expertise to your CV highlights that you’re adaptable, good with technology, and ready for jobs that demand strong digital skills. Social media skills can make you stand out in today’s job market, where proficiency in digital tasks is highly valued.
11. Operating Systems
Knowing your way around different operating systems, such as Apple’s MacOS and Microsoft’s Windows, is an essential computer skill for your CV. These systems have their own unique navigational elements and shortcuts, which are crucial to manage effectively in many professional settings.
Being proficient in multiple operating systems means you can work comfortably with a wide range of technologies, enhancing your flexibility and value as an employee. This skill is especially important in roles that involve IT support, software development, and system administration, where you need to troubleshoot and manage different systems efficiently.
Including operating system expertise on your CV not only boosts its strength but also shows potential employers that you are versatile and adaptable to various technological environments. This makes you a more attractive candidate in a job market that increasingly relies on diverse computing skills.
Having strong presentation skills is essential for many professional roles. Moreover, they involve clear and effective communication, along with confident speaking skills. Proficiency with tools like Microsoft PowerPoint or Apple Keynote to create visually engaging content.
Highlighting presentation skills on your CV shows employers you can represent their company, share ideas, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. This is particularly valuable in roles like sales, training, or management. Additionally, it shows you can handle public speaking and use digital tools, boosting your appeal in the job market.
13. Cybersecurity Awareness
Adding cybersecurity awareness to your CV is a smart move. Moreover, it involves protecting information online using strong passwords and spotting phishing scams.
Cybersecurity skills are crucial for keeping your own and your employer’s data safe from online threats. This is especially important in sectors like finance, healthcare, and IT, where sensitive information protection is critical.
Highlighting cybersecurity on your CV shows potential employers you possess key skills to safeguard data. Furthermore, this expertise gives you an edge in job interviews and proves your readiness to handle workplace digital challenges.
Gaining skills in basic video editing is a fantastic way to enhance your CV. Being proficient with video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or iMovie allows you to trim, splice, and enhance videos. This can be useful for both professional projects and personal use.
These skills are becoming increasingly essential in many job sectors, especially in marketing, communications, and content creation, where engaging video content is crucial. By learning how to edit videos effectively, you demonstrate that you’re adept with modern digital tools, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
Including basic video editing skills on your CV shows that you have the computer skills needed to produce and refine media content, adding a highly desirable dimension to your professional abilities.
Project Management tools proficiency can add your knowledge of project management tools to your CV, really setting you apart. Tools like Asana, Trello, and Microsoft Project help you effectively organise, manage, and track projects.
Being skilled in these tools is key for jobs that involve planning and overseeing projects, whether in management, operations, or any field requiring tight task coordination. When you mention these tools on your CV, it shows you’re not just organised; you’re also familiar with the essential software that keeps modern workplaces running smoothly.
Highlighting your ability with project management tools significantly boosts your CV by demonstrating that you can contribute to keeping projects on schedule and within budget. Consequently, this makes you stand out to employers, offering them someone who can directly impact productivity and success.
How do you list computer skills on a CV
When listing computer skills on your CV, it’s important to present them clearly and strategically to catch the attention of potential employers. Here’s how you can effectively list your computer skills:
Create a Specific Section: Dedicate a specific section for your computer skills, usually titled “Computer Skills” or “Technical Skills.” This makes it easy for hiring managers to find and assess your capabilities quickly.
Categorise Your Skills: Depending on your proficiency and the job requirements, organize your skills into categories such as software, hardware, programming languages, or network management.
Be Specific: Instead of simply stating “proficient in Microsoft Office,” detail which applications you are familiar with, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Access. This gives a clearer picture of your skill set.
Include Proficiency Levels: If applicable, indicate your level of expertise with each skill (beginner, intermediate, advanced, expert). This helps employers gauge how well you might handle specific tasks.
Highlight Certifications: If you have any certifications, such as a Microsoft Certification or an Adobe Certified Expert designation, make sure to list these, as they validate your skills and can set you apart from other candidates.
What are the best tips for writing a computer skills CV?
Employers value strong computer skills in today’s workplace. Stand out from the flood of resumes by highlighting yours.
Tips for a computer skill-focused CV:
Create a Dedicated Computer Skills Section: Establish a specific section for your computer skills to make them easily identifiable to hiring managers.
Detail Specific Skills: Rather than vaguely mentioning “computer skills,” list the exact software and technologies you’re proficient in, such as “Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Excel, and Python programming.”
Showcase Skills in Work Experience: Illustrate how you’ve applied your computer skills in previous roles. For example, “Created a custom Excel macro to streamline monthly reporting, reducing the process by 10 hours monthly.”
Align Skills with Job Requirements: Customise your CV to reflect the computer skills specified in the job description. If the job demands expertise in a particular software or technology, ensure these are prominently featured on your CV.
List Certifications: Include any relevant certifications in computer skills on your CV as they confirm your expertise and dedication to professional growth.
Specify Proficiency Levels: Clearly indicate your proficiency level for each skill, from “Basic knowledge of Java programming” to “Advanced user of Salesforce CRM software.”
Mention Relevant Courses and Training: Highlight any completed courses or training programs that have equipped you with the computer skills needed for the job.
Use Action Verbs: Employ strong action verbs such as “developed,” “designed,” “implemented,” and “optimized” to describe your accomplishments related to computer skills.
Proofread for Perfection: Ensure your CV is free from errors, as mistakes can detract from your professionalism, especially in roles requiring attention to detail.
Update Regularly: Keep the computer skills section of your CV updated with any new skills or certifications as you acquire them.
Can earning certifications in computer skills make me a more competitive candidate
Yes, earning certifications in computer skills makes you a more competitive candidate. Moreover, these certifications officially validate your expertise, demonstrating your commitment to professional growth and readiness to meet technical job demands.
For many roles, particularly in IT, engineering, or data analysis, certifications are often required or highly preferred. Additionally, they provide a clear measure of your skills, setting you apart from candidates with only informal experience. Holding certifications can also lead to better job offers, higher salaries, and more advancement opportunities. In summary, they significantly enhance your CV by showcasing your dedication and capability.
Can earning certifications in computer skills make a more competitive candidate
Earning certifications in computer skills makes you a more competitive candidate. Moreover, they validate your essential skills and technical knowledge, showing employers your commitment to professional growth.
For roles in IT, digital marketing, or data analysis, certifications are often essential or highly desirable. Additionally, they set a clear benchmark of your abilities, helping you stand out from candidates without formal qualifications. Certifications can also lead to better job prospects, higher salaries, and more career advancement opportunities. In short, they enhance your CV by showcasing your expertise and dedication.
FAQs
Ans: Absolutely! It’s still a valuable skill to have. In the “Computer Skills” section of your CV, you can specify which applications you’re proficient in (e.g., Word, Excel) or mention your level of expertise (e.g., “Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office”).
Ans: It depends! It might be a challenge if the tool is essential for the role. However, the blog post highlights the importance of showcasing transferable skills. If you’re familiar with a different project management tool, mention that and your ability to learn quickly.
Ans: Presentations skills don’t solely rely on public speaking comfort. The blog emphasises proficiency in presentation software like PowerPoint or Keynote. Even if public speaking isn’t your forte, highlighting your ability to create clear and visually appealing presentations can still be valuable.
Ans: Not necessarily! Certifications can be a plus, but strong experience and demonstrably applied skills are still highly valued. Focus on showcasing your practical knowledge and how you’ve used computer skills to achieve positive results in previous roles.
Ans: Definitely not! The focus is identifying the skills most relevant to your desired career path. The blog provides a comprehensive list to get you started. Look at job descriptions in your field to see which skills are most commonly requested, and prioritise those for your CV.
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