15 Computer Skills for a Resume

Modern workplaces rely heavily on digital tools, making computer proficiency a core technical resume/CV requirement and hence a must-have for job seekers these days. Employers look for candidates who can use existing technology effectively, adapt to new systems, and support productivity through digital solutions.

In a nutshell, selecting the right computer skills for a resume or CV demonstrates readiness for today’s digitalised work environment. Note that the words resume and CV will be used interchangeably in this post (because of their close similarity).

How Many Skills Should You List on a Resume?

There is no officially defined rule or global standard that dictates the exact number of skills that must appear on a resume. The decision is flexible and should always depend on relevance rather than quantity. What matters most is how well your listed skills align with the role you are applying for.

The job description should be your primary guide. Carefully review it and identify the skills the employer is asking for, whether they are clearly stated or implied. If the role highlights eight key skills, for example, you should aim to include those skills on your resume (provided you genuinely possess them).

If you do not meet all of the job skill requirements, include any of your skills that best match your experience and strengths. One way to know you've selected the right skills is when they are reflected in the narratives in your experience section.

As a guideline, listing between 5 and 15 skills works well for most resumes and CVs. This range allows you to show versatility without overcrowding your document or making it difficult for recruiters to quickly identify your most relevant abilities. 

15 Computer Skills for a Resume

Technical skills can enable you to earn a high income and are not very tough to learn (or upgrade) if you are determined. Below is a carefully curated list of computer skills for a resume that employers commonly look for across industries. This list will help you identify some key skills that best match the role you are applying for.

1. Hardware Troubleshooting & Maintenance

This skill focuses on identifying and fixing physical computer issues. Tasks may include diagnosing system problems, replacing worn-out components, and installing peripherals. Employers value candidates who can maintain equipment and reduce operational disruptions. For technical support and related IT positions, including this among the computer skills for a resume is especially valuable.

2. Coding & Programming 

Coding and programming rank among the most outstanding technical skills for a CV/resume today due to their wide range of uses. Knowledge of languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, and C++ demonstrates advanced logical thinking and problem-solving ability. Even basic coding experience can be valuable in roles that involve automation, data processing, or system customisation.

3. Software Application Usage

Beyond coding/programming, familiarity with professional software shows that you can operate efficiently in digital environments. This includes experience with business applications (e.g., productivity tools) or industry-specific platforms used to manage daily operations.

4. Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Basic cybersecurity knowledge shows that you understand how to protect data and digital systems. Experience in areas such as VPN/secure browsing, data protection, access control, and threat prevention is increasingly important, making cybersecurity a crucial element when it comes to computer skills for a resume.

5. Web Development

Many businesses live on the internet nowadays, and hence web development has become one of the most versatile technical skills for a CV. Understanding how to build, maintain and optimise websites as well as ensure mobile responsiveness is useful knowledge that many employers are in need of.

6. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing allows users to store data, run applications, and collaborate online. Experience with cloud-based platforms demonstrates flexibility, remote work readiness, and an understanding of modern digital infrastructure.

7. Word Processing

Word processing involves creating and formatting documents, reports, and other correspondence. Proficiency in popular document-editing tools ensures accuracy, professionalism, and efficiency in written and spoken communication.

8. Project Management (PM)

Using project management software effectively reflects strong leadership, organisational, planning and managerial abilities. These tools help manage tasks, timelines, and resources, making them valuable technical skills for a CV across a wide range of professions.

9. Data Management & Analysis

Working with data includes organising information, identifying patterns, and generating insights. Skills in spreadsheets, databases, and visualisation tools are valuable for roles that involve reporting, forecasting, or performance evaluation.

10. Content Creation

This kind of computer skills for a resume involves producing and optimising visual materials, including blog posts, videos, ads, and other presentations. Such abilities are employment-friendly because they support brand promotion, lead generation, and conversions.

11. Digital Marketing/Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

Digital marketing skills relate to promoting products or services online. Understanding how search engines work, analysing audience behaviour, and optimising online content can be beneficial for marketing, media, entrepreneurial and other roles.

12. Content Management Systems (CMS)

As noted earlier, a lot of businesses now have an active presence online. This has elevated knowledge of CMS to one of the top technical skills for a CV. Experience with these platforms shows employers that you can manage online content, for example, create, publish and update posts, and maintain overall site functionality.

13. Social Media Management (SMM)

Managing social platforms involves duties such as scheduling and publishing posts, engaging audiences, and tracking performance metrics. These skills demonstrate communication ability, creativity, and an understanding of online community engagement.

14. Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)

Some years ago, AI and ML would probably have got little or no mention as essential computer skills for a resume. That is no longer the case today. AI/ML has evolved over time to become a huge, futuristic industry, causing significant disruptions across diverse sectors of the economy.

15. Virtual Assistance (VA)

Virtual assistance skills involve managing mostly administrative and operational tasks remotely using digital tools. This can include calendar management, email correspondence, data entry, scheduling, document preparation, and coordinating online meetings, among others.

Conclusion

Computer proficiency has become a core technical resume/CV requirement across nearly all professions. These technical skills for a CV are not extremely difficult to learn and can be very rewarding. They demonstrate the ability to work efficiently, solve problems, and adapt to technological changes.

However, computer skills for a resume should be guided by each particular job description to ensure that only the most relevant skills make your list, which should be between 5 to 15 skills.