When conducting a job interview, a common question is, "What computer skills do you have and what programs are you comfortable using?"

Of course, the answer to that question will vary greatly depending on the job you are applying for. If you are applying for a high-tech position that requires a lot of information technology skills, for example, you should know your skills and experience as the back of your hand and be able to count them without being fired.

However, if you are applying for a position that requires simple computer skills, you may need help with a solid answer. Here are some tips, as well as some sample interview questions and answers.


How to Answer Computer Questions



Common software used for office work is word processing software such as Microsoft Word, spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel, and presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint. Keep in mind that many job applicants will be aware of these Microsoft programs, and many employers will be waiting for you. So, say that you know or are familiar with these software programs, but don't spend too much time explaining this.

Depending on the nature of the company, they may have special software that you need to know. You should research what they use ahead of time, if possible.

For example, you should look at the job description and see if you need to be familiar with the programs. Be sure to mention your experience or knowledge of this software.

Remember, you should always be honest when answering interview questions. If you claim to be a program specialist, your employer will expect you to be able to enter the office directly and start working. It will only make you worse if you do not have the skills you need.


Ten Skills of Computer Communication and Sample Answers



These computer skills questions are the ones you are most likely to include in a personal conversation. By practicing your answers ahead of time, you will be able to provide confident answers even when you are under pressure.

1. How comfortable are you using Microsoft Office?

What They Want to Know: In almost any job that requires word processing, job seekers will be expected to have the knowledge to use Microsoft Word. Many administrative roles also require expertise in Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet creation) and Microsoft PowerPoint (presentation presentation)


I have information about Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. I am very comfortable using these programs and have a lot of experience in doing so.


2. How skilled are you at learning growing computer programs and programs?

What They Want to Know: Business technology changes overnight, so any computer user must be able to keep up with the latest updates and / or install new software.


I am very comfortable using computers and I am confident in my ability to learn any new programs quickly. For example, in my last job as a web editor, I learned a new content management system very quickly: within two weeks, I was teaching this program to our students.


3. What operating software programs are you familiar with?

What They Want to Know: There are a variety of features that go into the companies of key computer programs that they choose to invest in. While many creative and design technologies still prefer Apple Mac products, costly companies in some industries often equip low-cost Microsoft PC offices. Most listings will talk about the computer system used in the company, so be prepared to describe the level of expertise in their favorite OS.


I am free to use the Windows and Apple operating software. I have used both in my previous work ten years ago.


4. How easy is it to use the spreadsheet software?

What They Want to Know: Any job assigned to an accountant or accounting officer will need to demonstrate that they can use computer technology to calculate, table, chart and compare numerical data.


I am an expert in Microsoft Excel and Mac Numbers. I can create fully functional spreadsheets and often edit and analyze large data sets. For example, I collected and edited all our school test results in both maths and English two years ago. I then analyze it and translate the findings of our manager.


5. How skilled are you in the use of photo and video creation software?

What They Want to Know: Although the use of deceptive graphics software was the domain of creative and advertising designers, these types of systems have become so easy to use that many office professionals now use them, especially in small businesses where administrators may be asked to update websites or develop internal or external communication.


In addition to basic computer skills and word processing, I am familiar with photo and video editing software. I have used both Adobe After Effects and iMovie to edit short promotional videos of my previous company, and I have received great praise from my employer for my skill in these programs.


6. What mobile technology do you have in use?

What They Want to Know: Mobile technology, such as smartphones and tablets, has become an increasingly important tool for small businesses, especially in the retail and marketing sectors. This trend is only growing as telecommunications companies roll out new cloud-based programs and services for business users.

As a project leader in my last project, I have greatly improved communication between our team members - spread across five different geographic sales areas - through our GoToMeeting mobile app. I learn new apps very quickly, and I use Saleforce1, Pipedrive, and Nimble every day.


7. Part of the responsibilities of this position will include that you help us build our communication presence. What social networking sites do you usually use?

What They Want to Know: Social media has become a popular channel for many businesses to reach existing and potential customers.

I have improved my pages on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and created a business profile of my former employer on Facebook, where I posted at least three times a week, tracking student engagement, and setting up Facebook ads linked to the company’s website.


8. How can you measure your relevance to HTML?

What They Want to Know: If any of your job responsibilities include maintaining a website or writing a marketing or business blog, you will no doubt be asked about your expertise in HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), or JavaScript. Don't be surprised if the hiring committee asks you to take an HTML skills test in case you get to the second or third round of interviews.


I have 8 years of experience using HTML to create websites, and a solid experience of converting HTML pages into WordPress. I also have strong CSS editing skills, and as a result have become my company person when they need someone to help train others in using cascading style sheets.


9. What Google-based business tools have you used in your previous role?

What They Want to Know: With more and more communication tools at their disposal, many small businesses have begun to control office costs and improve the work / living standards of their employees by allowing their employees to work from home or on the go. Any employer who relies on mobile or remote employees may use Google-based tools to increase the speed and efficiency of their business.


Because most of our team in the construction department at ABC Company works remotely, we have used G Suite for communication through our business email, video conferencing, file sharing and cloud storage.


10. Have you obtained any computer certificates?

What They Want to Know: Being able to demonstrate that you have successfully completed IT certification programs in various software programs can be of great benefit to the candidate, as this lets prospective employers know that you are professionally qualified and will not need additional training or advice to use their computer programs.

In order to fully expand my Microsoft Dynamics 365 Financial and Performance mandate, I recently received my certificate as a Financials Functional Consultant Associate. The experience I gained has helped me to become more effective in my ministry.

Keep these tips in mind as you prepare to answer interview questions regarding your technical expertise.