How to List Computer Programmer Skills on a Resume: Best Skills and Examples

Computer Programmer Skills | Best Skills, How-to & Examples | Resume.com

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If you’re applying for a computer programmer position, there are many skills to consider that you should include on your resume. These include a mixture of both hard and soft skills that work together. Many of the required skills focus on specific programming languages. Discover some of the most sought-after computer programmer skills and find out how to list them on your resume.

What is a computer programmer?

A computer programmer or coder writes code for both software applications and operating systems. Their role often comes in after that of a software developer. Developers design programs, then programmers write code, adding to the design a set of instructions for computers to read and follow. Computer programmers primarily focus on the writing, testing, and maintaining of code. They master one or more programming languages to write code based on their particular niche.

Why do employers want to see computer programmer skills on your resume?

Most employers want to see computer programming skills on your resume because they want to know which languages you’re familiar with and what other supportive skills you may possess. Knowing a specific programming language is not always enough to earn a role. The duties of a programmer are often difficult and stressful, requiring several additional skills that many employers look for in their applicants.

Best computer programmer skills to add to a resume

The following list includes some of the best computer programming soft and hard skills to add to a resume.

Problem-solving

Computer programmers face unique challenges multiple times a day. For example, if even there is even a single missing letter or misspelling within a set of code, it won’t execute properly. Programmers have to scour through their often long and complicated lines of code to find the problem. They may also face a confusing situation where planned code doesn’t work for the type of application they’re working with. In this case, they often have to develop something new to handle the issue.

Efficiency

Computer programmers often work under tight deadlines, finding creative methods to handle complex issues in a short amount of time. Their main duty is to make tasks easier and more efficient through the use of program development.

Self-motivation

Computer programmers often work on tasks alone. After they begin their work, there is little chance for outside help as they’re using their own code. Only the individual working on a specific task knows the code they used and most likely is the only one who can fix a problem. This requires programmers to be independent, taking on tasks on their own and seeing them to completion.

Patience

Computer programming takes time as it’s often rare for code to work on the first attempt. Programmers work long hours, sometimes through the night, to ensure that an application runs successfully. The work is frustrating at times, requiring an immense amount of perseverance. Companies need strong-willed individuals for this role that can handle the often stressful nature of the position.

Dexterity

Computer programmers type complex code for the full duration of their workday. This puts a great deal of strain on wrists, hands, and fingers. Typing intensively for long periods of time requires a decent amount of strength and agility in hands and fingers.

Coding languages

List all coding languages you have experience with. Consider the job description for the role you’re applying for and ensure that relevant languages are listed first. Most companies specialize in a specific language that is best for their work. Although knowledge in multiple languages is an asset, they often prefer expertise in specific ones.

How to list computer programmer skills on a resume

The following steps outline how to list computer programmer skills on a resume.

1. First, break down skills into two subsections

Instead of having a normal skills section, break yours into two subsections. One section lists your basic soft skills, while the other focuses solely on programming languages. Include all programming languages you’re familiar with or have some experience in.

2. Then, add scales for competence levels

Show your competency level in each programming language by offering a scale beside it. There are many different options to choose from, such as a bar graph, progress scale, number scale, and more. For example, if you’re proficient at structured query language (SQL), then you might give yourself a score of 10, being the highest value on your scale. In contrast, if you know Python but haven’t used it in several years, you might give yourself a seven instead.

3. Finally, include specifics information throughout

Listing skills on your resume shows hiring managers what you’re familiar with, but it often helps explain a bit more. A great way of showing this in your work experience section by explaining a major accomplishment using a particular skill. For example, during your time at your previous company, there was an error in their transaction system, causing the company to lose millions in sales. All programming teams were placed on the issue, but only you were able to address the problem with your unique code. Let hiring managers know this in your resume by explaining that your code saved the company millions of dollars.

How to improve computer programming skills

The following steps outline how to improve your current programming skills.

1. First, practice a new programming language

As with any skill, programming is a commitment that takes practice for success. You can self-teach yourself new programming languages by reading books or looking up free resources online. Download a sandbox coding application and practice simple to advanced coding processes and test how well you do. If you encounter problematic code at work that you feel took you far too long to solve, try to recreate the same situation at home in your testing software to see if you can come up with more creative solutions.

2. Then, create and publish your own project

Many programmers create their own code or applications as a form of practice. Programming allows the opportunity to create many different applications such as helpful computer tools, browser extensions, mobile apps, and video games. Come up with an idea, write code for it in your spare time, allow friends and other programmers to test it and publish it. If you publish your application in an online store, you can even make money on your practice project.

3. Finally, join an online community

Online programming communities bring together coding professionals from a wide variety of industries and businesses. Community members often have the ability to offer feedback and advice on other programmer’s work. Participate in the community and give your own feedback. There are even opportunities for you to write your own code for other people’s projects. It’s a great way to stay relevant with new trends and continuously educate yourself and evolve your skills.

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