The importance of information technology in the workplace is empirical. Keeping computer related jobs aside, even roles in non-computer related departments such as sales, distribution, teaching, hospitality etc, all need to make use of computer technology. This makes it a necessity for every employee to acquire related computer skills if they don’t have them already.
Even if you are comfortable handling the computer keyboard and fidgeting with basic computer software, it is needed to equip yourself with better skills. It will only do you good to acquire the necessary computer skills. Computer skills courses is often offered to the employees by their own companies in order to increase the productivity levels. But if not, try to convince your manager to get you some good computer training. Even if it comes down to your paying part or the entire computer training course, it is all worth it because it helps you to excel in your career.
There are many basic computer skills you must master. The three levels of skills are referred to as basic, intermediate and standard. Most of these courses are available online or in the form of inexpensive software offered for sale. Some of them are discussed here:
1. Computer Typing
Typing is perhaps the most basics of skills required in almost all workplaces and careers. If you haven’t already mastered the skill of touch typing on a computer keyboard, it’s the time you do that. Slow typing can not only slow down the speed of work but also the growth of your career. Taking computer skills courses are certainly worth avoiding unmet deadlines.
2. Processing Word Documents
Word processing computer skills courses offer the basics of putting a document together, such as a report and editing it on need basis. This is often done in Microsoft Word. This is a very basic skill needed ever since typewriters have become redundant. There are recruitment firms and employers who go the length to check candidates’ proficiency in word processing. This comes really handy in managing day to day tasks of letter typing, preparing proposals and reports in the workplace.
3. Using Spreadsheets
Many businesses require basic expertise in managing spreadsheets such as Microsoft Excel. Spreadsheets are very useful when it comes to record keeping and managing information. It is imperative that office workers and small business owners undergo computer skills courses so as to enable them to use this basic skill properly, as spreadsheets with their formula applications and advanced functions can be tricky.
4. Learning To Manage Databases
As opposed to how jargon-like, the term databases range from extremely difficult to fairly simple. A variety of CRM or Customer Relationship Management tools exists out there. It is best to stick to what you already know and keep upgrading your database skills as needed. Databases are especially useful for businesses having lots of customer interaction and offices needing records that are referred to time and again.
Learning computer skills benefits the employee in achieving not only better productivity levels but also greater job security, higher pay and better job opportunities.
