Software skills for resumes
Software skills include everything from graphic design capabilities to knowledge of coding languages and artificial intelligence algorithms. Learning how to highlight software skills for resumes can showcase your abilities and help you position yourself as a strong candidate. Here’s everything tech professionals need to know about listing software and programming skills, resume writing, and cover letter creation.
Importance and benefits of software skills in the job market
Software skills for resumes help position you as a strong candidate and distinguish you from other applicants. Software abilities are in high demand and are no longer confined to the tech industry — they’re a crucial group of hard skills that are valued in almost every field, from healthcare to retail.
One of the most compelling reasons for developing software skills is the potential for improving productivity. If you’re skilled with tools like Microsoft Excel or project management platforms, you can automate repetitive tasks and manage your time more effectively.
Technology represents a foundational element of the modern workplace. Employees want to know you can use the tools they provide to thrive and collaborate with your team members. Mastering tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack can make for smoother workflows and accelerate the flow of information between you and your coworkers.
Our resume articles can help answer other common questions about where and how to list software skills on resumes. Use these resources to unlock the benefits outlined above.
Key software skills and where they are used
Here are some notable software skills for resumes you might consider including:
Microsoft Office Suite
General computer skills are critical to most positions these days, and Microsoft Office Suite is one of the most commonly used software suites in the U.S.
If you know your way around Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications, make sure to let your prospective employer know. These skills are particularly valuable in fields like finance, administration, and marketing.
The bottom line is that Microsoft Office skills are in demand. Be detailed about your proficiency level and how long you’ve been using each program. Don’t exaggerate your capabilities, as doing so can mislead hiring teams and ultimately disqualify you from the screening process.
Project management software
Roles that involve coordinating tasks and managing timelines often require familiarity with tools like Trello or Asana. These project management platforms help you stay organized and get more done each day.
Roles in event planning, marketing, and IT often require familiarity with the company’s preferred project management software. Make a point of reading all job descriptions and expectations to find out which software you’ll need to know how to use.
Version control systems
In software development and engineering, version control systems like Git and SVN are essential for tracking changes in code and collaborating with developers. These tools are fundamental in tech roles but are increasingly being used in other fields that require meticulous documentation and collaboration.
Machine learning algorithms and techniques
Technical skills in data science and machine learning are becoming more sought-after. If you’re pursuing a role in tech or finance, you could advertise yourself as a strong candidate by learning ML, AI, and data science skills.
However, technical skills relevant to machine learning aren’t limited to those fields. Support and analytics professionals in a wide range of other industries also use machine learning to analyze vast quantities of data, automate processes, and promote workplace efficiency.
Neural network frameworks
If you have aspirations of working in AI and machine learning, you’ll need experience with neural network frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. These tools are employed to build and deploy machine learning models, and they’re indispensable in fields like data science, robotics, and advanced analytics.
It can be tricky to add neural network skills to your resume in a natural and accessible way. We suggest checking out resume examples for inspiration about how best to relay complex skills and talents in your job application documents.
Graphic design software
Do you consider yourself a creative individual? If so, knowledge of tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator can make you stand out for graphic design roles. These tools are used to create visuals for marketing materials, websites, and social media. Content creators and marketers can benefit from mastering these programs.
Make sure you mention your graphic design or software skills in your cover letter, too, as these documents are meant to be complementary. Check out our cover letter examples for more insights about how to create a letter that bolsters your resume.
Database management systems
Roles that involve managing and analyzing large amounts of data require a knowledge of systems like MySQL and Oracle. If you have these skills, you may stand out in hiring processes for jobs in IT, finance, and research-related fields.
Remember, each business has its own preferences regarding database management systems. Identify and prioritize companies that use the solution you’re most proficient in.
While you can still apply for positions where companies require other DBMSs, your experience with a competing system may not make you as attractive a candidate. Consequently, you’ll need to differentiate yourself in other ways.
Programming languages
Knowledge of programming languages like Java and Python is vital for software developers. Other fields are starting to seek out people with these skills, as well. For example, if you’re applying for a role as a data analyst or data scientist, the hiring team may consider you a leading candidate if you know a programming language.
Don’t just list the languages you know. If you’re fluent in a programming language, be specific about how you use that knowledge to support employers’ needs. For example, if you’re extremely proficient in C++, you could create a list of C++ projects for resumes to support your claims and showcase your abilities.
Mentioning your project management experience accomplishes a few things. It demonstrates that you’re actually skilled in using the coding language listed on your resume and shows the hiring team that you also possess valuable leadership skills.
Incorporating software skills in resume sections
Learning how to list programming skills on resumes is easier than you might expect. There are a few different approaches.
If your software skills are extensive, you can create a dedicated software section. List the tools you’ve worked with and categorize them by relevance to the position or your proficiency level. For example, you might have categories like “Advanced,” “Intermediate,” and “Basic.”
If your software skills are directly relevant to the position you’re applying for, list them in your “Work Experience” section. For instance, if you used Excel to analyze sales data in a past role, you could highlight this experience and explain what you used the platform for in the description of your work responsibilities.
Remember, you’ll also need a complementary cover letter. Jobseeker has dozens of great cover letter templates and corresponding resume templates to help streamline your job search. Simply find the resume template you like and choose the matching cover letter layout to ensure a consistent theme and style across both documents.
Expert Tip:
Quantify your experience whenever possible to showcase the real-world applications of your skills. For example, you could say something like, “Increased team efficiency by 25% through the implementation of Trello for project management.” This statement is more impactful than simply saying, “Increased efficiency with Trello.”
Questions about software skills
Be prepared to discuss any skills you list on your resume during the interview process. Think of specific examples that show how you’ve applied your skills in real-world situations.
It’s a good idea to practice answering questions about your software skills, as well. For example, you might be asked, “Can you describe a time when your proficiency in Excel helped you solve a problem?” You’ll want to have a good answer ready to go.
Make sure to tie your skills to specific accomplishments and outcomes. Illustrate how your technical abilities have led to previous outcomes in your previous roles.
“Software skills for resumes help position you as a strong candidate and distinguish you from other applicants.”
Stand out with Jobseeker’s resources and templates
Need help incorporating software skills for resumes in a natural and engaging way? Jobseeker has a huge library of resources and tools designed to support your job search. Our resume builder makes it easy to create an engaging document that will catch a hiring manager’s eye.
Don’t forget to create a complementary cover letter with our cover letter generator. A great resume and cover letter are non-negotiable for your job search. Check out Jobseeker and use our tools to get noticed.
