Basic Computer Skills Every Job Seeker Should Have  

Many jobs today require computer skills. For those who lack training in computer skills, it can seem intimidating to find a job or to apply for one. Sharp IT skills may help you score a better interview on a job or provide you with better pay in some cases. It also opens the door for more opportunities. Computer skills are not something to put off – they may be one of the most important sets of skills you take with you on your next job interview.

At Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona, we can help you secure the proper training you need to meet these computer demands many times over. The key is knowing what you need to learn. Work on building your resume by increasing the type and number of skills you have.

Microsoft Office Skills

Microsoft Office is one of the most commonly used software programs. It provides a wide range of tools that businesses can use for gathering and organizing information. That includes the use of:

• Word processing programs. Microsoft Word is one part of Office. It focuses on providing a way to write messages, letters and other correspondence in a file. Many businesses use this program.
• Spreadsheets. A bit more complex, spreadsheets allow for the gathering and management of data. It can be done in a wide range of tables and with various factors. Microsoft Excel is Office’s version of spreadsheets.
• Note taking. Microsoft OneNote is a type of digital note taking app. It is very easy to use once you learn some basics. It allows you to organize notes from meetings or other tasks in a way that makes them super easy to navigate.
• Presentation. Sometimes you may need to watch or even create a visual display of information. Microsoft Powerpoint is the tool you may use for this. It’s another component of Office often used in jobs where there’s a need for training or communication that’s more visual than just words on a paper.

Other parts of Office may be important to some industries as well. Learning about Microsoft Office, including how to access files, create new files and fill in spreadsheets are core computer skills to many positions today.

Emailing

It may sound simple, but professional emailing is a bit more elaborate than just sending a short message. Rather, it’s about learning how to communicate in a professional manner. You may also benefit from skills such as:

• Learning how to address emails
• Sending to multiple people, including with blind copy
• Responding to emails properly to keep a data trail
• Uploading and downloading attachments
• Email security risk management

Learning to open, use and respond to emails is a big part of many people’s work. Business communication skills to support emailing are just as important here.

Web and Social Skills

While many people have a history with things like social media use for personal needs, it’s a whole new world when it comes to business-based web and social skill use. Social media use is a task some employees provide to their employers. This may include things like taking photos or creating crafty marketing messages.

Most employees will also need to do some work online. This is perhaps one of the most important tasks that employees need to be able to do in any work environment where the company operates in the cloud. That means they are using an internet-based system to manage information and communications. It will be important for you to have valuable skills in this area. That may include:

• Understanding what the cloud is and how to use it
• Security factors, such as how to minimize security risks for the company
• Learning how to navigate the programs within the cloud
• Using the web safely to conduct tasks
• Managing online connections with safety and security in mind

It’s also a good idea to have some computer skills to help you find a job. You may be able to use these tools to help you navigate sites like LinkedIn, which encourages connections between employees and employers.

Basic Computer Management Skills

For those without any history of computer use, some basic computer management skills may be beneficial. This may include things like:

• Using a computer and properly managing computer use.
• Navigating software and hardware programs
• How to change the layout of a computer screen
• Working within multiple programs at one time
• How to save and access files, including using internet browsers

If you do not have these basic skills, it’s okay. Learning them is not hard to do, especially for those who know how to use a smartphone. Working on computers is nearly always a component of the work you will do in some capacity. These basic skills can help ensure you are mastering the process and have access to navigating it well.

Troubleshooting Skills

While most people will say they have okay computer skills, it is hard for many people when it comes to problems with applications. There are going to be times when the computer screen does not come on, or a USB port is not working. You may have connectivity issues with the internet or struggle with getting the system to operate fast enough. Learning some basic computer troubleshooting skills can help you overcome those challenges. Some of the topics you may need to learn include:

• Running virus checks and scans to minimize risks
• Handling basic computer problems, such as connecting to the internet or what to do when the system does not respond to you
• Learn how to get help – how to find information to help you when something happens
• How to handle a software or hardware problem (they are different)
• How to prevent problems with good skills in computer use

Troubleshooting skills are often overlooked when it comes to IT skills training, but knowing what to do when something is not working properly is critical in nearly all applications.

How Do You Get Computer Skills Like This?

If you want to bulk up your resume to ensure you have these and other computer skills to impress hiring managers, turn to our team at Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona. We’ll work closely with you to ensure you always have access to skill training. We can offer help with learning to use computers, including navigating the internet and basic computer functionality. We’ll also help you with computer program skills, like using Microsoft Office programs to the best of your ability. There are also advanced courses available for those who may need a bit more support.

Work closely with our Career Services team to build your resume. We’ll also help you with tasks such as navigating interviews and building strong communication skills so you look your best on your interview day. Even if you have no skills at all right now, our team is dedicated to providing you with access.

At Goodwill, we offer no-cost courses and certifications like this to help you secure the job you want to have. There’s no reason to put off getting the support you need to land the job you want. Reach out to us today to learn more about these programs and how you can get started.