In this day and age, everyone is expected to know how to use technology to a certain extent. For example, the people you hire should know how to use computers, surf the web, and more. In fact, you could argue that it’s rare to find anyone who doesn’t know how to do these things.
However, there are some basic skills that employees may not have and which are either required or helpful for the job. Fortunately, a lack of certain computer skills shouldn’t cripple their ability to do their job, especially since there are so many ways that they can learn new computer skills, whether they are beginners or not.
Basic Computer Skills All Employees Should Have
While it’s unnecessary for employees to know how to code (unless their job is related to software development), they should have some general computer skills to be able to work in a modern-day office environment. The following are the basic computer skills every employee should have.
Web Skills
Employees should know how to use the web effectively, whether it’s doing research via search engines or engaging with people on social media, such as LinkedIn, or using emails, such as through the use of Microsoft Outlook or Gmail.
Word Processing Programs
An employee should know how to use word processing programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. These programs may seem simple to use on the surface, but they tend to be packed with features and integrations that can be helpful to know.
Spreadsheet Programs
Just like word processing programs, an employee should also know how to use spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Spreadsheets are useful in the office environment because they allow people to keep track of complex data. However, building a spreadsheet can be a little complicated for people who have never learned how to use a spreadsheet program before.
Job-Specific Computer Skills
Of course, employees should also know how to use any programs that are specific to their jobs. For instance, if the employee was hired for their graphic design skills, then they should know how to use programs like Photoshop. A content writer should not only have writing skills, but also some knowledge of certain digital marketing solutions. While it’s not necessary for employees to have every single job-specific skill, they should know the general idea of how to use them.
Ways Employees Can Learn Computer Skills
Learning computer skills can be difficult for employees. However, there are some ways that they can learn how to use new programs and improve on the ones they already have.
On-Site Training
One way for employees to learn new computer skills is through on-the-job training. This is where the employees get training from their managers or co-workers as they are working. Such a method of learning can be helpful because it allows employees to learn computer skills in the context of their job.
You could also offer training sessions for employees. For example, you could set up a training session on using a specific software solution in your conference room, using digital signage as a way to instruct anyone who attends.
In-Person Computer Literacy Classes
You can help your employees find classes on improving their computer skills in your area. There should be no shortage of in-person adult computer literacy classes that employees can sign up for, wherever you’re located. Community colleges are a good place to look for adult classes that employees can enroll in.
Online Computer Courses
Some employees may not have the time to travel to and from in-person classes. Or there may not be in-person classes available on the specific computer skill an employee wants to learn or master. Fortunately, there are a number of free and paid online courses available nowadays, so you should be able to find the one that best suits the employee and their needs.
Employees should be able to take these courses at home, so they can still learn how to use the programs they want even if they can’t be in the office. Taking online classes requires less time as well since they don’t have to travel.
Online Tutorials
Employees who have a basic familiarity with certain programs but want to learn more may not feel like they need to enroll in an in-person or online class. Instead, they can find tutorials online. More often than not, the software producer will have tutorials and other resources available on their website that users can check out. YouTube is another excellent resource for tutorials. People often post short tutorials on how to use certain software features on YouTube to help fellow users.
Encourage Your Employees to Learn Computer Skills
Employees can always improve their computer skills even if they are already computer literate, especially when it comes to more complex software applications. Encourage them to learn certain computer programs or to improve the skills they have by recommending resources. You can also offer training or provide information on where they can take in-person or online courses.