Archive for September 2011
Improve Your Computer Skills and Get a Better Job
September 30, 2011 | 
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The time comes when most people want to find another job. Many have been in their current job for years and have learnt how to use the computer system for their particular job. They might have been taught to use a patient records system, a stock control system, a data entry system or a company specific program. If you ask them to use a computer for any other task they panic. Does this sound like you? Are you being let down by your lack of computer knowledge or your lack of confidence?
Many jobs these days require you to use a computer. You might be able to navigate your way through your company’s stock control system, but could you type a letter and format the text? Could you produce a poster with illustrations and formated text? Do you know how to turn the computer off correctly, save and open documents properly. Too many people panic at the thought of doing these things and think they are stuck in the job they have.
Don’t feel you are stuck in your job. It is possible to improve your skills. If you live in a town or city you will probably find a choice of computer courses you can attend. Don’t feel you will be “the idiot” and everyone else will be much faster/cleverer that you. They won’t – that’s why they are there! You can all learn together, make new friends and have fun.
Not everyone can attend a class. If you live in a more rural area there might not be any classes close to your home. If you do find a class, it might not be at a convenient time. Some people lack the confidence needed to attend a class, especially if they had a bad experience at school. If this is you, consider phoning and talking with the class tutor. Most of us aren’t dragons and will be more than happy to chat to you and put your mind a rest before you start the class. I have had people literally shaking with fear at the first class. I try hard to make my classes relaxed, fun and sociable. By the second week even the most timid students are keen to return. We have a laugh and a joke – and most importantly a tea break.
If you are unable to attend a class, what are your options? Consider studying at home. Find a course that is written for adults, in an easy to follow style. Make sure the course has step by step instructions and contains lots of illustrations to help you. Make sure the course starts at the beginning and teaches you all the basic jargon. If you have never use a computer before, make sure it shows you how to use the mouse. Buy the course and work your way through it at home.
Set some time aside when you won’t be disturbed. Make yourself a cup of tea and work your way through the course at your own pace. If you get “stuck”, don’t get frustrated. Turn the computer off and go and do something completely different. When you come back you will most likely find the problem has disappeared. If you are older, don’t get cross with yourself if you learn more slowly. Remember – you are studying at home, at your own pace, in your own time. It isn’t a competition. You just want to improve your skills. Learn slowly and you will remember what you have learnt. Try and learn too fast and you will become confused and frustrated.
Posted in job skill technology | 
Tags: Computer Knowledge, Computer System, Stock Data | 
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Computer Training – 5 Reasons to Maintain Computer Skills
Would you say you are computer literate and what does that mean for you?
Computer literacy is defined as the knowledge and ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Computer literacy can also refer to the comfort level someone has with using computer programs and other applications that are associated with computers. Another valuable component of computer literacy is knowing how computers work and operate. Having basic computer skills is a significant asset in the developed countries. (Wikipedia.org)
Technology is changing at a rapid rate and new systems are constantly being installed and updated in businesses making it difficult for the average person to keep up to date.
There are a number of ways to maintain the necessary computer skills, through online courses and taking computer courses through classroom involvement or with one-on-one training. As everyone has a different way of learning it is important to use whatever means BEST suits the individual to achieve the BEST outcome.
It was not that long ago that every manager had their own administration staff or secretary. However in many instances today, most managers are expected to write their own correspondence, plus manage the business for which there they were employed. This places additional pressure on people to maintain their skills and update them on a regular basis.
Why should we integrate as part of our work skills the need to keep a current level of computer expertise? Here are just five reasons to maintain currency with computer skills:-
With the continuing change of pace in today’s world it is important not to be left behind. While we are employed today, tomorrow it is possible this may not be the case and having up to date skills is an advantage when applying for a new position. Being able to carry out tasks for your employer in an efficient manner will save them time and money. Knowing your system well will save considerable stress as you perform your tasks in a timely manner. When companies introduce a new or updated system, being a quick learner, as you have kept your skills up to date, will give you greater recognition for a potential upgrade in your position. For example Susan was an accounts clerk who showed initiative and was moved to a support role providing staff training for staff who were struggling with the new accounts system. Susan had taken the manual home and studied it in her spare time and had always kept her finger on the pulse of any changes. With young people in school and universities an important element in their ongoing knowledge is to be proficient in computer skills. As they move into the workplace this will stand them in good stead obtaining a job. As managers it is important to have up to date skills to compete in the global market. Time is of the essence and while it may take time to update skills it is time well spent when it comes to training.
These are just a few reasons why we need to maintain these skill levels. There are no doubt many others that come to mind as you read this article. As a trainer I have loved watching people from all areas of business and life attending courses. Some are terrified as their company has taken away their secretary and they have been told if they want their jobs they need to gain the skills to do their own work. Others are excited and eagerly wanting the knowledge.
Being a trainer is a very rewarding job and one that I have loved. It is important when a person leaves a course they feel confident in their ability to use the program and providing ongoing support is a way to encourage this. To be good at any job role is to walk in the shoes of the person receiving what you are giving.