Why Are Computer Skills So Important in the Workplace?

As a freelancer or entrepreneur, having a high level of computer skills will allow you to perform tasks that your competitors may be lacking. If you’re job hunting, computer literacy will improve your prospects, since many companies and organizations highly value this skill. 

At a minimum, you should be familiar with programs such as Microsoft Word, Gmail, Excel and other commonly used programs. 

In this article, we dive deeper into why computer skills should be a priority for you. 

Why should you prioritize computer skills? 

They are essential to add to your resume 

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Computer skills are among the most important points to include in your resume as this will undoubtedly lead to more and better job opportunities. 

Proficiency with computer programs relevant to your work will help you complete tasks more efficiently, improving your output.

Another skill you should prioritize is your computer-based communication level. This is essential for communicating with colleagues and with people from other organizations. 

They’re included in many job descriptions 

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When applying for a vacancy, you’ll see computer skills mentioned in almost every job description. Whether it has to do with being proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, an iOS developer, or more, you’ll see them more often than not. For example, here is an iOS developer job template. 

Computer skills enhance performance at work 

Are you someone who still uses a notebook to write things down? Well, if you are, know that computer literacy eliminates the need to do this. Taking notes by hand is an outdated way of doing things. If you know how to use a PC, you’re going to be able to organize your work in a far more efficient and timely manner. 

This is even more important if you’re performing a job requiring you to use a computer at all times. Many modern-day jobs require you to use a computer. In fact, by the end of this decade, a staggering 9 out of 10 jobs will require digital skills. 

More job opportunities 

Here are some of the basic skills employers look for in candidates: 

• Problem-solving skills 
• Communication skills 
• Leadership skills
• Technical skills 

According to statistics, skilled workers are more likely to get a higher wage than unskilled workers. Moreover, if employers won’t offer a better salary, talent with marketable computer skills can quickly find jobs elsewhere. 

Which programs should you focus on to build your computer skills? 

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Having computer skills involves knowing a few of the most common programs. So, which ones are the most important to know? 

Here are the most basic ones: 

• Microsoft Word: Microsoft word is used for writing things down and putting text documents together. If you’re a copywriter, content writer, or are in any role that includes a lot of word processing, you should become familiar with Microsoft Word. 
• Microsoft Excel: This is undoubtedly one of the most powerful programmes to know. It’s used for organizing large amounts of data into spreadsheets and is used in a wide range of industries. So being proficient in Excel as part of your computer skills will certainly benefit you. 
• Microsoft Powerpoint: Very useful if your role involves preparing presentations. If your job is not related to presentations, you can get away without knowing much about Powerpoint. However, it’s extremely useful to know. 
• Typing skills: Another important part of computer literacy is typing skills. It’ll be challenging to be successful at a job if you can’t type fast and your duties include writing thousands of words! There are plenty of online apps that can aid you in improving your typing skills. 

Consider using Gmail test assessments 

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Knowing how to communicate professionally via email is one of those ‘soft skills’ most employers will be looking for. If you need to hire someone for a role requiring this minimum level of computer-based skills, you can give them a test for basic Gmail skills. 

This test allows you to hire candidates after assessing if they have the basic level of email knowledge. The covered skills here are: 

• Using Gmail
• Email etiquette 
• Basic email functionalities 
• Managing events and Google calendar 

This type of test is normally used to hire: 

• Executive assistants
• Receptionists
• Personal assistants
• Email managers and more 

Final word

The digital world is evolving at a fast pace and if you don’t know how to use a computer in this age, things won’t get any easier for you. Most businesses are entirely reliant on the online world. Before long, almost everything we buy and sell will be online. 

Whichever career path you choose, it will always be beneficial for you if you possess computer skills. Whether you want to be a programmer, virtual assistant, social media manager, or any number of other roles, having computer skills will always give you the upper hand.