If you are on the lookout for some technology-related skills that will make your CV (curriculum vitae) stand out, we have your back. Sending a resume is a key portion of getting a job, whether you want a position in a corporation or a small company, or seek work as a freelancer. Even if your credentials are up to par, presenting yourself poorly to employers can discourage them from sending you an interview invite. Moreover, getting to that point doesn’t guarantee they won’t pick a less qualified candidate with a superior resume. Since technology is rapidly changing the job marketplace, you should pick up some technological skills that will enrich your resume. We’re here to help.
Why should I learn technological skills?
You should learn technological skills because technology is drastically impacting the job market. While it is creating new ones, technologies replace many jobs and enhance existing ones. We likely don’t need to remind you that a lot of today’s jobs require a computer and at least basic knowledge. But if you’re looking to scale up your salary, you will find that many positions demand tech skills such as programming, web and graphic design, network setup and administration, graphic design, videography, social media expertise, and so forth.
Others mandate knowledge of creative and productive software suites from Adobe, Microsoft, Google, Apple, Corel, and so on. Many other skills dealt deal with hardware, too. Don’t forget newer jobs in AI (Artificial Intelligence), machine learning, cryptocurrency, and anything with Big Data, either. In short, having medium to expert-level technological skills is a must if you want a high-paying job or an advancement to a higher position in your current company.
Where to gain technological skills quickly?
The best way to gain technological skills quickly is through the best technology courses you can find online. They are succinct, easy to sign up for, and sometimes even free or free up to a point. You can join remotely, work at your pace, and get the form of education that works for you. Even if you have to pay, tech courses will likely cost you a fraction of the course at an accredited institution. Don’t get us wrong, through. If accredited educational institutions nearby offer short-term courses (think up to a year) you can attend on top of working, these are a good choice as well. In the best-case scenario, you get a certificate you can add to your resume. Now, let’s get into the skills.
1. Knowledge of algorithms
Understanding algorithms is an underrated technological skill you should put on your resume to make yourself stand out. Algorithms are crucial for the best tech jobs out there since they represent the basis of programming and many tech-oriented procedures. An algorithm represents a set of steps, essentially a process, that is required for hardware or software to function. Familiarity with algorithms translates to other areas. Even if you don’t use them daily, it shows employers your ability to execute instructions, backtrack if needed, and get to the finish line. Including specific examples of a problem you solved using an algorithm is the best way to demonstrate that skill.
2. Web design
As if the number of computers with Internet access wasn’t growing fast enough, devices such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT (Internet of Things) are going online rapidly, making web design a valuable skill. Don’t fret if the industry you’re in or getting into doesn’t work with websites daily. After all, even a small business such as a mom-and-pop shop or a thrift store benefits from a beautiful but resourceful online presence.
You never know whether your ability to get a website up and running thanks to HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript is the deciding factor between you and another candidate. Web tools also require far less technical knowledge than programming languages. That means you can strengthen your resume in a short period. It can also be pivotal if you create a resume online and want to include a portfolio.
3. Operating systems knowledge
If a candidate has advanced knowledge of Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, and distributions of Linux, they should mention them in their resume. Again, there’s no telling whether an employer is using a specific operating system and corresponding software in their workflow. Thus, they may be unable or unwilling to train the employees. If so, they will prefer candidates with pre-existing knowledge even if their qualifications are lacking.
4. Programming languages
We likely don’t need to point out that programming is one of the most desirable careers at this time, and will stay that way. Therefore, if you have any skills in programming languages, they will enrich your resume in the technological department. Mention in your CV that you are proficient in programming languages such as:
- Go
- C
- C#
- C++
- Python
- Java
- JavaScript
- PHP
- Swift
- SQL
- Objective-C
- Scala
Do your research on the companies on digital platforms that consolidate reviews and data from employees or previous employees. If you have a specific skill in an obscure but much-needed language, or can work with rarely used programs, point it out.
5. Expertise in creativity and productivity suites
If you’ve achieved something noteworthy using productivity or creativity software suites, or possess advanced to exceptional knowledge, add it to your resume. Based on the industry and niche, mention any expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud, as well as Google Workspace, Apple iWork, and Corel WordPerfect Office. On the topic of programming and developing, point out competency in IDEs (integrated development environments) such as Visual Studio or Eclipse.
6. Cloud skills
Cloud storage, sharing, and computing are technological areas that an increasing number of businesses transition into. Therefore, if you possess any cloud technological skill set, it will enrich your resume as it grows higher in higher demand as the years go by. In the best-case scenario, you understand back-end systems. However, you should mention any cloud-related skills, such as:
- Advanced familiarity with cloud platforms for personal and business purposes
- Managing cloud backups, data syncing, and data migration
- Handing data security in the cloud and on the premises
- Creating and managing databases
- Managing networks
- Management of integrated environments
Again, researching the company can let you spot its weak links, e.g., the ability to improve its systems to be faster, easier to use, or more cost-efficient.
7. Data analysis
You shouldn’t need further convincing to list data analyst skills on your resume after reading our list of the Big Data advantages and disadvantages and its mining and study. Data is the key to financial success, and companies are looking for employees that can analyze it and showcase the results. Again, don’t be discouraged by the fact the company doesn’t specifically demand it. They may need someone to point out the benefits for their productivity, Customer Service, and profits.
8. Social media management
Applicants with a deeper knowledge of social media and its engagement potential can be attractive to employers. After all, you can help almost any business drive engagement and establish a greater online presence via social media websites. It can also help you find work if you need an alternative to job search engines.
Which tech skills should I avoid putting on my resume?
You should avoid putting these three tech skills on your resume:
- Basic computer skills. A basic skill set in software suites such as Microsoft Office suite is expected nowadays.
- Irrelevant tech skills. Don’t include skills that are irrelevant to the position you’re applying for in your resume unless you spot a chance to use them. A good example is government programs or old programming languages that the organization still uses.
- Technological skills (or their level) you don’t possess. While bluffing may get you hired, someone will discover your boasting about technological or technical knowledge sooner or later.