Why Computing Skills Have Become the Norm

Why Computing Skills Have Become the Norm

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Most industries and businesses are relying on the use of computers for most of their employees these days. There are obviously different levels of computer skills that you could possess.  Not everyone is required to be a computer whizz, but it is almost essential that you have basic computer literacy for all office jobs (and even most non-office jobs these days).

Why do you need computer skills in your workplace?

Computer skills enable a workforce to be much more productive and effective, and they also enable better communication across teams. Basic computer skills mean you know how to:

  • Operate a computer
  • Use a mouse
  • Use basic computer programs
  • Create document and spreadsheets

This is basically mandatory knowledge in any job. Good internet skills are more important than ever in an increasingly internet obsessed world.  If your job is office based, it is likely that using the computer and the internet is part of it. Email is such a huge part of our corporate culture that without knowing how to use it you would be greatly hindered in the communication department.

You’re more likely to get a job if you have computer skills

The ability to use programs such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint or Word gives you an edge over those don’t know how to use them. If you know how to use them at a more advanced level, you may be much more likely to be hired for some jobs.

Job seekers are aware of this and ensure that their computer skills are up to scratch so they can get a job in the company of their choice. It’s relatively easy to take classes for basic and intermediate computer skills these days, and there are plenty of exciting home learning courses you can take to brush up on them. For more advanced training to use more specialized programs and software’s, your workplace may offer you training on the job. It will only benefit them in the long term to have more employees with specialised computer skills.

You’re also more likely to be promoted to higher positions if your computer skills are more specialised. This is another reason why many are encouraged to continue learning about new software and skills. If you possess a good set of computer skills, you can also teach your team members and become a more valued member of the team.

Possessing computer skills enables you to work more effectively

If you know how to use a computer and just some of the millions of different programs or apps, you’re likely to be able to get your work done efficiently and in an organised manner. These programs have been designed specifically for improving our work performance.

Becoming a pro at Excel or PowerPoint will definitely make you a popular member of the team at work. It will also improve the quality of your work, as you will be able to deliver the most professional looking presentations and other outputs of work will be improved and more efficient.

Internet skills can help with communication and access to knowledge

The internet is such a huge part of most of our lives now that those who don’t know how to use it are missing out on communicating with those who spend so much of their time on it. Not only that, you open yourself up to so much information that you previously had limited or no access to. You can basically learn about pretty much anything using the internet, and you can communicate and keep in touch with friends or family that are thousands of miles away with ease. It’s easy to feel like you’re missing out on a whole world if you don’t know how to use the internet!

There is a wealth of free resources available online. It has become so much easier to be able to learn from home and teach yourself about topics or learn skills that you previously might not have been able to. This world of free resources can open so many doors and opportunities for us. It really is essential to have a firm grip of computer and internet skills these days to avoid not missing out on anything!

Nick Cooper
Nick is NCC's resident blog author and covers a range of subjects, including teaching and health & social care. NCC is an international learning provider with over 20 years’ experience offering learning solutions. To date, NCC has engaged with over 20,000 employers, and delivered quality training to over half a million learners.
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