What are computing skills?

When a job advert says you need computing skills, it means you'll know how to use computer devices, operating systems, software and applications.

Computing skills are also known as “computer skills” or “IT skills” Regardless of the wording, the meaning is the same.

Why are computing skills important?

We live in a digital era. Computers play a massive role in our lives. Our dependence on computers is increasing. With the help of a computer, we're able to shop, work and even date!

Computer skills in the workplace

Most companies use computers. Computers have allowed companies to reduce their costs and increase efficiency, productivity and organisation at the same time.

At work, computers can help you with:

• Researching

• Keeping records

• Organising

• Producing documents

• Presentations

• Communication

• Training

• Saving paper

• Remote working

Job ads commonly mention things like:

• “Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel”

• “Familiar with Adobe photoshop”

• “Able to manipulate complex data sets using SAS and SQL”

• “Experienced user of Google Analytics”

The level of computer skills you need will vary depending on the role and company. Check what you need by carefully reading the job description. If you've got the skills, mention them in your CV and application.

How can you show you've got computing skills?

Stick them on your CV

If you've got the right computer skills, put them on your CV. Example IT skills include:

• Adobe Indesign

• Content management systems (CMS)

• Data analytics

• Data entry

• Graphic design

• HTML

• Microsoft Office

• Social media management

• Software development

• Spreadsheets & Databases

Also mention how you've used your computing skills during your studies and previous jobs. For example:

• “Planned monthly cash flow budgets using Excel”

• “Used several software systems to monitor customer accounts”

• “Pulled daily reports using SAS”

• “Statistically analysed quantitative data using SPSS for my dissertation”

• “Promoted the university's student radio station using social media”

Talk about them

Clearly mention which skills you hold in interviews and applications, especially if they're important for the job.

You might be asked questions about your computer skills, especially if the job or company is in the technology or IT sector

Here are some example questions:

• How do you feel about learning new computer systems and processes?

• Which operating systems are you familiar with?

• What's your favourite computing device to use and why?

• Which social media platforms do you use?

How to gain computing skills?

You've probably used computers a lot in your life, especially if you're a graduate. It's likely you've used them for:

• Writing assignments

• A job

• Analysing data

• Social media

• Surfing the web

Have a go at some of these if you haven't already!

How to improve your computer skills?

We doubt you need to learn how to use a computer. However, if you want to improve a particular IT skills, you can do through courses available online, at a:

• University

• College

• Career centre