Excel Certification on Resume

What Is Excel Certification

The Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification for Excel validates expertise in using Microsoft Excel to perform tasks such as data analysis, modeling, and presentation. This certification is issued by Microsoft Learning, a division of Microsoft Corporation.

The core skills validated through this certification include proficiency in creating formulas, functions, and macros; manipulating and formatting data efficiently; building complex models and charts; and working with pivot tables and Power Pivot data analysis tools. This certification is significant in the industry as IT demonstrates a high level of mastery over Microsoft Excel, an essential tool for professionals across various industries.

Prerequisites for obtaining this certification typically include basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Windows. No specific experience or education is required, but candidates should have a good understanding of Microsoft Excel's features and functions. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issue, after which IT must be renewed by retaking the exam. Estimated preparation time varies based on individual skill levels but can take between 30-60 hours to prepare and achieve the certificate at an intermediate level.

Should I Include Excel Certification on Resume?

Including your Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Excel certification on your resume is recommended, particularly for positions where data analysis or management skills are essential. The recency of the certification matters, as more recent certifications may reflect a candidate's current competence in using Microsoft Excel. In some cases, having an up-to-date MOS Excel certification can significantly increase your chances of landing a job, particularly for entry-level or junior positions where demonstrating proficiency in using Microsoft Excel is crucial.

However, IT might be less important to include this certification when applying for roles outside data analysis and management, such as creative or leadership positions. Additionally, if you hold multiple certifications, consider prioritizing the most relevant ones based on the job requirements.

Geographical relevance can also play a role in deciding whether to include your MOS Excel certification. If you're applying for jobs in regions where Microsoft Office Suite is widely used, such as North America or Western Europe, IT might be more valuable to highlight this credential.

Hiring Managers And Excel Certification on Resume

• Hiring managers view the MOS Excel certification as a demonstration of a candidate's technical competence and proficiency in using Microsoft Excel.
• The specific skills or qualities they associate with this credential include data analysis, modeling, and presentation capabilities, as well as an understanding of complex data manipulation.
• In industry-specific perspectives, this certification can be particularly valuable for roles such as financial analysts, business intelligence analysts, and data scientists.
• Having the MOS Excel certification sets candidates apart from competitors by providing tangible evidence of their Microsoft Excel skills.
• Potential negative perceptions to be aware of include certifications obtained through less reputable sources or those that are outdated, as they may raise questions about a candidate's competence and commitment to continued learning.

How to List Excel Certification on Resume

• Exact Formatting: Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Excel Certification, [Certification Level] Examples: Microsoft Office Specialist Excel 2016, Expert; Microsoft Office Specialist Excel 2019, Master

• Certification Number/ID: You can include the certification number or ID if desired but IT is not required.

• Expiration/Renewal Dates: Include the expiration date if the certification has already been renewed or will expire soon; otherwise, only indicate the initial issuance year.

• Certifying Organization: Include "Microsoft Learning" or simply "Microsoft Corporation" to indicate the issuing organization.

• In-Progress Certifications: If you are currently working towards your MOS Excel certification, list IT under "Certifications (In Progress)" or similar.

Where to List Excel Certification on Resume

• Dedicated Certifications Section: Create a dedicated section for certifications, listing all relevant professional certifications in this section.
• Education Section: If you have recently graduated from a program that included Microsoft Office Suite training or covers data analysis, consider listing your MOS Excel certification under the education section.
• Summary: Depending on the context and relevance to the position, you can mention your MOS Excel certification in the summary or career objective statement at the beginning of your resume.
• Multiple Placements: List multiple certifications in reverse chronological order, with the most recent one first.
• Order/Hierarchy: If a candidate holds multiple Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, prioritize listings based on their relevance to the position and the level achieved (Expert > Master > Specialist).

Examples of How to List Excel Certification on Resume

Example 1 - For a Technical Resume

Skills Microsoft Office Specialist Excel: Expert (2021-2023)

In a technical resume, IT's essential to highlight the skills section prominently, as most recruiters quickly scan this section. Listing the Excel certification under Skills demonstrates your proficiency and expertise in using Excel, making IT easy for employers to identify your qualifications at a glance.

Example 2 - For a Recent Graduate

Education Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (2018-2022) Microsoft Office Specialist Excel: Master (2022)

As a recent graduate, you might want to showcase your academic achievements along with relevant certifications. Listing the Excel certification under Education emphasizes that you have the necessary skills for the job market and also demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning.

Example 3 - In a Dedicated Certifications Section

Certifications Microsoft Office Specialist Excel: Expert (2019-2021)

In some cases, IT's beneficial to have a separate section for certifications to provide a clear overview of your professional accomplishments. This format is ideal for candidates who have multiple certifications and want to highlight their Excel proficiency specifically.

Example 4 - In a Skills-First Resume Format

Skills & Certifications Microsoft Office Specialist Excel: Master (2019) Proficient in data analysis, pivot tables, and macros using Excel

In a skills-first resume format, you want to showcase your abilities first before diving into your work experience or education. By combining the certification with relevant skills, you can demonstrate both your technical proficiency and specific areas of expertise, making IT easier for employers to understand your qualifications quickly.