As more and more workers switch jobs and shift careers, they're also updating their resumes as they pursue opportunities that allow them to move beyond living paycheck to paycheck .
However, refreshing your resume might require you to remove some outdated job skills. Listing these skills might actually reduce your chances of landing a potential new job.
So as you draft your new resumes and cover letters, purge some of these job skills that just aren't as special today.
Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially 1. Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word has been around for a while. The first version of Microsoft Word came out in the early 1980s, and there have been several major changes to the software since then.
Word has become so prevalent in the workforce that employers assume you already know it. Adding it to your resume might be seen as unnecessary bloat.
And remember that Word isn’t the only Microsoft program that has become ubiquitous. So apply this advice to other programs, such as Microsoft Excel or Microsoft PowerPoint.
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2. Data entry
Some understanding of basic data entry is expected for many jobs, thanks to the increase in the use of technology in offices, on shop floors, and anywhere else you may work.
Skip mentioning proficiency in data entry unless the job requires you to add large amounts of information to a database. In that case, mention a specific database entry program you understand thoroughly.
3. Packaging and shipping
Mailrooms used to be busy hubs for offices. In the past, you might have been able to use your packing and shipping knowledge to get items moving through the system as quickly as possible.
But packing and shipping skills have become more common and easier to master, thanks to the use of email and the availability of online programs that can print labels or track packages.
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4. Phone support
Offices once were filled with big black phones sitting on the desks of every employee making money . Phone support technicians were required to run phone lines or service newer phones with digital screens.
Company phones aren’t used as often as they used to be, and some companies have even ditched landlines for smartphones in the hands of each of their workers. So, mentioning phone support skills on your resume might make you look outdated.
5. Typing
In the past, typing proficiency was reserved for people who held positions where typing was regularly needed.
Now, most employees have computers on their desks, meaning typing has become a universal skill for all workers. Many students also are exposed to typing at a young age in their schools.
6. Online research
Finding a specific database or knowing where to get hard-to-find data in a corner of the internet used to be a vital skill. Now, most workers know how to use online search engines to retrieve the information they need.
These days, there is nothing special about mastering online research skills.
Get Out of Debt for Good: Try these 6 clever ways to crush your debt 7. Filing
Your computer is likely packed with folders that hold all your files. The idea is based on paper filing systems that once were the standard way to organize office papers.
Understanding filing systems and filing folders is a job for the technology department now that virtual files have physical files. Those who work in other departments no longer need to boast of this skill.
8. Computer languages
Computer languages are constantly evolving as programmers try to develop new technology to keep pace with changes in the market.
You might have experience with multiple computer languages, but it’s probably better to limit your resume to mentioning languages specific to the job opening.
Some computer languages are outdated now, so adding them to your resume might make you appear out of touch with today’s technology.
9. Email
Understanding how to write, send, or receive emails was once a new concept, but that’s obviously not the case anymore.
Ditch any references to your work with Microsoft Outlook, Gmail, or other email platforms.
Break the Cycle: 8 moves to escape the paycheck to paycheck grind 10. College degree
While not a particular skill, employers might not be as interested in your college degree as they once were.
Perhaps you majored in a field that is irrelevant to your current position. Or maybe you graduated a few decades ago, meaning anything you learned to earn your degree might be outdated.
So don’t overemphasize your degree. On the other hand, it’s fine to highlight recent certification programs or continuing education classes that are relevant to your position.
Pro tip: If you’re an older worker and want to keep your college degree on your resume, another option might be to remove your graduation date.
11. Web browser use
Unless you are applying for a job to design websites, your understanding of web browsers such as Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or Google Chrome probably is not useful to mention.
It‘s especially crucial to delete references to outdated browsers, like Netscape.
Bottom line
The employment market has become more competitive as people change jobs to find better positions or to get a raise that will help them get ahead financially .
If you want your resume to stand out, consider giving it a good refresh or even overhauling it to give it a more modern feel. You will stand out more by focusing on current job skills instead of those that are no longer quite so relevant.
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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