Should You Include Microsoft Word or Office on a Resume in 2024?

Charlotte Grainger
Charlotte Grainger

8 min read

Yellow geometrical pattern

If you want to get a cut above the competition, your skills section needs to be strong. But you already knew that. One of the most common questions job seekers have is whether to include skills like Microsoft Word on a resume. It’s a tricky conundrum. 

Of course, including relevant skills on a resume is really important for two reasons. Firstly, it quickly shows the hiring manager that you have the skills required for the position. Secondly, it helps you to get past an ATS system, which is a software used by most employers to automatically screen resumes. It’s a win-win scenario! 

Not sure what we’re talking about? Don’t panic. You can read more here on how to get your resume past an Applicant Tracking System.

When you’re ready to put pen to paper, you may be wondering whether to include Microsoft Office skills on your resume. The truth is that it depends which particular skills you mean. In the following guide, we will look at each of these skills, whether they are worthy of a top spot on your resume, and, if so, how you should be including them. 

Should you include Microsoft Word on a resume?

The short answer: No.

If you’re thinking of putting Microsoft Word on your resume, here’s your sign not to bother. Why? Nearly everyone knows how to use Microsoft Word and including it on your resume does not give you an edge. Frankly, it’s 2023, and any employer would expect you to be proficient in Microsoft Word.

Here is an article worth reading if you don't know how to use Microsoft Word.

When you highlight that you can use Microsoft Word on your resume, you’re not saying very much at all. It's like saying you know how to operate a cell phone — it just doesn't belong on a resume. Including it will do more harm than good.

Now, that doesn’t mean that you should be leaving out other key skills. Your resume is the ideal place to show an employer what you are bringing to the table. ​​We'll discuss more later in this post on the types of skills to include on your resume to stand out. However, the important lesson here is that Microsoft Word is certainly not one you should include.

Should you include Microsoft Excel on a resume?

The short answer: Yes.

If you’re a complete whiz kid when it comes to Microsoft Excel, you should be including it on your resume. Microsoft Excel is a little more complicated than Word and can be a useful skill in many jobs. This is especially true for positions that require you to use Microsoft Excel, such as accounting or bookkeeping. 

So, is it worth putting Microsoft Excel on your resume? Chances are that it might be. Here are two things you need to keep in mind when listing Microsoft Excel on a resume.

  • First, make sure that you know how to use Excel at a near expert level. The program is pretty complex so ensure that you know the ins and outs. It’s no good saying that you are proficient in this skill if you only know the basic functions. 

  • Only include Excel on your resume if it's relevant to the position you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for a Nursing position, you probably won't need Excel on your resume. Before you decide to put Microsoft Excel on your resume, consider whether it aligns with the job position for which you are applying. 

Here is a good article that outlines the basics of Excel. If you don't know how to use Excel at an expert level, there are many classes available online that may be worth looking into.

Should you include Microsoft PowerPoint on a resume?

The short answer: No.

So, you can put together a wicked slideshow on PowerPoint? That’s not the massive flex you think it is. Microsoft PowerPoint, like Word, is fairly simple to use and doesn't require advanced knowledge. For that reason, when you add Microsoft Powerpoint to your resume, it doesn't tell the employer anything that they don’t already expect of you. 

Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. If your job relies on putting together engaging sales decks for clients, you might want to point out that you use Microsoft PowerPoint to do so. Consider how well this program aligns with your job duties. 

Should you include Microsoft Outlook on a resume?

The short answer: No.

In the modern world, we all know how to use email software. Microsoft Outlook is exactly that — it’s Windows’ version of an email platform. As you might imagine, it’s not particularly hard to get your head around using this type of software. You simply log in and get going. 

When you brag about being able to use Microsoft Outlook on a resume, it could be a red flag to employers. The fact that you think that is an impressive feat may worry them. Instead, stick to including Microsoft Office software that is more difficult to use here. 

How do you list Microsoft Office skills on a resume?

Now that you know which skills are resume-worthy, let’s talk about how to get the job done. Learning how to describe Microsoft Office skills on your resume doesn’t have to be difficult. The most obvious place for these talents is in your skills section. When you bullet point your hard and soft skills, you can include the software that you are proficient in. 

Of course, you can also include any Microsoft Office specialist certification on your resume. So, if you have undertaken training in how to use Microsoft Excel, don’t be afraid to include that information in your next application. The extra time and effort you have put into your ongoing learning and development may be enough to turn a recruiter’s head. 

You don’t need to confine your Microsoft Office skills to the skills section either. When you’re writing your resume, you can weave these talents through the rest of the content. 

For example, when it comes to your employment section, you can include the skills in bullet points below your job roles. For example, you might write “Utilized Microsoft Excel to keep track of sales figures, accounting, and general outgoings.” This not only highlights that you can use the software, but it also shows what tasks you have used it for. 

Should you include Microsoft Office on a resume? 

If you know how to use all of the programs in Microsoft Office and it's listed as a required skill in the job description — then you can include it. However, if this package is not listed in the job advert, you should avoid adding it to your resume. It is not worth the trouble!

So, which skills should you be including on a resume?

Microsoft Excel is the only skill you should consider listing independently. So, what other skills should you be listing? We’ve got you covered here. Check out: 10 Vital Skills to Put on Your Resume.

You want to include hard skills and technical skills on your resume that are relevant to the position you're targeting. Remember that the purpose of your resume is to show how you're qualified for that particular position. Listing irrelevant information and skills on a resume will do you more harm than good. Look at the job description to see which skills they require or prefer and list those on your resume.

The takeaway

By now, you should know which core skills you need to list on your resume. Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Outlook are fairly simple to use and any employer would expect you to be familiar with them. Listing it on your resume does not give you an edge over the other candidates. For that reason, you should leave them off your next application in most cases. However, as we have covered here, there are sometimes exceptions to the rule. 

When you’re creating your resume, it pays to be selective in what you write. The last thing you want to do is waste the hiring manager’s time with unnecessary information. Include skills that show your employer you have what it takes to get the job done. Highlighting relevant hard skills will also help get your resume past ATS systems. Since most employers now use that software, you need to get it right. Good luck with your job search!

Looking to land your next dream job? Sprucing up your resume is the first step toward success. Don’t leave things to chance. Take a look at our expert-backed resume writing services now. Having an optimized application written by an expert means that you have a better chance of getting that all-important interview. 

Recommended reading: 



Charlotte Grainger

Written by

Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer, Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer living and working in Sheffield, UK. She has a passion for career development and loves sharing tips and advice. Follow her on Twitter

Person working on laptop outside. ZipJob Branded.

Our resume services get results.

We’ve helped change over 30,000 careers.

PROTECT YOUR DATA

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy. You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.