Can one really be inaccurate when using a common household cleaning item such as a mop? I’m sure there have been many a mop-related mishaps that have yet to be posted on Instagram or recorded and shared via viral video, but today, I’m referring to a different type of mop. Of course, this “mop” I’m blogging about could very possibly be flung around lifelessly like that of a cleaning mop, and unfortunately, this does happen – quite frequently, actually.
“Microsoft Office Proficiency”.
The phrase seems harmless enough, sounding impressive every single time it’s typed into the body of a resume. It can get an applicant noticed, just as much as a degree can. Most jobs require proficiency in Microsoft Office products, which are very task-specific. Because of this, it is never a good idea to list the phrase “Microsoft Office Proficiency”, or “Proficient in Microsoft Office” within the skills section of a resume unless the applicant is, in fact, proficient in all Office products.
The word “proficiency” means high level of skill, a background of frequent experience. To toss “proficient” on a resume when actual skills are basic or barely average is not honest, and could lead to issues with a future position if and when you’re expected to deliver those killer skills. When describing actual Microsoft Office skills within a resume, the writer should be specific. Are you a whiz at Word, but not so hot at working with formulas and developing charts on Excel? Just stick with the phrase, “Proficiency in Microsoft Word”. Do you have mad presentation skills that go along with your amazingly engaging PowerPoint slide shows, but have no idea how to format a table in Word? Be specific and note proficiency in PowerPoint. It’s perfectly fine to list programs you’ve used regularly and comfortably within the skills section, but be careful when adding words like “advanced”, “proficient”, and “expertise”. Interviewers will assume you’re just that, and if you’re hired, you’ll be expected to be “MOP”.
When listing your Microsoft Office skills, be honest, be accurate, be specific – and if you are Microsoft Office Proficient – meaning you’re a Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Access rockstar – list that skill with confidence!