In our technologically advanced world, it is vital for employees in nearly all fields to have basic computer skills and experience. Database and spreadsheet programs, like Microsoft Excel, are important to know for most office jobs. However, when you are applying for jobs, especially jobs that do not require that you detail your computer skills, it can be hard to figure out where and how to list programs like Excel on your resume.
Step 1
Create a special section on your resume. If you do not have a skills section, you can add one. If you do, create a subheading for computer skills.
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Step 2
Be sure to name the program by name. On her list of 10 resume mistakes, Dr. Katharine Hansen mentions the importance of detailing specific keywords. If you know how to use Excel, but list it on your resume as "spreadsheet programs," it might be missed by an employer skimming specifically for the program.
Step 3
List the operating systems that you know how to use, as well as the specific versions of Excel. For example, list Microsoft Windows Vista, or any other versions of Windows that you know, the years of Office that you are most familiar with, for example, Microsoft Office 2000 or 2003, and then also list MS Excel 2000 or 2003.
Step 4
If you think your experience with Excel is important, find ways of mentioning it as a duty at some of your other jobs. For example, if you had a job as an administrative assistant in the past, you could list "compiled spreadsheets" as a duty.