Employers often look for a variety of Excel skills when hiring for a job that involves working with data.
Some of the most commonly sought-after skills include:
Basic data entry and manipulation This includes skills such as sorting, filtering, and using basic formulas and functions, such as SUM and AVERAGE.
Data analysis This includes skills such as creating pivot tables, using advanced formulas and functions, such as IF and VLOOKUP, and creating charts and graphs to visualize data.
Data visualization This includes skills such as creating charts and graphs, using conditional formatting, and creating dashboards.
Automation This includes skills such as creating macros, automating repetitive tasks, and using Excel add-ins, such as Power Query and Power Pivot.
Database management This includes skills such as connecting Excel to external data sources, such as databases and websites, and using data validation and data quality tools.
Problem-solving and critical thinking Employers look for candidates who can use Excel to analyse data, identify trends and patterns, and make data-driven decisions.
Advanced Excel Employers look for advanced excel skills like using Power Query, Power Pivot, and using excel solver, excel VBA, and advanced data analysis techniques.
Collaboration This includes skills such as sharing and collaborating with others, using Excel in a team environment, and using Excel in conjunction with other tools, such as SharePoint and Power BI.
Financial analysis This includes skills such as using Excel to perform financial analysis, such as creating financial models, forecasting, and budgeting.
It's also worth noting that some employers may look for specific Excel certifications, or proof of attending courses to ensure that the applicant has a certain level of proficiency in Excel.
Some inherent characteristics to complement Excel skills generally include:
Time management This includes skills such as being able to efficiently manage large amounts of data, automate repetitive tasks, and prioritise tasks to meet deadlines.
Communication This includes skills such as effectively communicating data insights, creating clear and visually appealing charts and graphs, and presenting data in a way that is easy to understand.
Adaptability This includes skills such as the ability to work with different types of data, to troubleshoot and solve problems, and to adapt to new technologies and tools.
Attention to detail This includes skills such as being able to spot errors, inconsistencies, and outliers in data, and ensuring that data is accurate, complete, and up-to-date.
Data Governance This includes skills such as understanding data privacy, security and regulatory compliance, as well as implementing controls to ensure data quality and consistency.
Business Acumen This includes skills such as understanding the business context, the ability to apply data analysis to real-world business problems, and the ability to use Excel in a way that supports the overall goals of the organisation.
It's important to note that the specific Excel skills required will vary depending on the job and the industry. It's always best to review the job description and requirements carefully and focus on the skills that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.
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