Resumes are an important part of an application package. They outline your experience and abilities, and give the employer an overview of your competencies. Of the various sections shown in most resumes, the skills section, for architects and designers, provides an opportunity to communicate proficiency in the software programs that will be required for the position in question. However, there are some alarming trends among more "modern" professionals in relation to this section that can negatively impact your success in the hiring process. 

When tackling the skills section of your resume, make sure not to do these two things.

Using graphic charts to show software knowledge

In an attempt to be more creative, many have started using a kind of graphic measuring system to communicate proficiency level in various software. For instance someone might list Revit, Photoshop, and Excel. They'll place five dots next to Revit, to communicate that they know it really well; next to Excel they'll put two dots, to show they are a bit less proficient; and then next to Photoshop they'll also place five dots. 

I'll admit that it looks cool, but it doesn't communicate anything valuable to the employer because, to them, knowing something really well might mean that you have at least five years of experience using that software. In addition to that, employers will always have an application expectation for the software they want you to know. For example, in Revit, they may want you to be able to set up sheets, create families, and compose a set of CDs all by yourself. How can they know your five dots communicates that level of knowledge?

Instead, just list the software you know without the measurement indicators. Let your portfolio show what you can do with production software, and, if necessary, you can communicate during your interview any programs you are not as versed in. Why kill your chances at moving to the next step in the process because a hiring manager misunderstands your chart and thinks you're not qualified for the position?

Listing generic software

There's usually no need to list Microsoft Office as a software that you are familiar with. With the exception of Excel, it's assumed that the majority of people who have graduated college have the basic knowledge to use a word processor. Try to list only the items that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Remember, the sole purpose of your resume is to communicate that you hold the core (and preferred) qualifications to fulfill the need of the firm in question.

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