Importance of Computer Literacy in Job Hunting
Computer skills are not just useful, they are a requirement in today's workplace, which means that today's job seeker needs basic computer literacy skills to be competitive. Not only will computer skills allow job seekers to attain jobs they would otherwise be unqualified for, these same skills are increasingly necessary simply to find a job, as more and more companies post openings online and require potential employees to fill out applications online or use email to send resumes.
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Significance
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Computers have become an important business tool. Used to contact customers and vendors, store and generate information, and link employees, nearly every work place uses computers in some capacity, making computer literacy a requirement for job seekers. Moreover, most employers now post jobs or accept applications online.
Aspects
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Computer literacy begins with familiarity with computer components - the computer itself, monitor, mouse and printer.
Computer literacy also refers to an ability to navigate and use computer operating systems, such as Windows XP or Windows 7, word processing and spreadsheet programs and email programs. The ability to search the Internet for information is also an aspect of computer literacy.
Today's job search requires all these skills. Job seekers should be able to turn on a computer and use its components, search the Internet for job openings, fill out website forms, use word processing to create a resume, and email that resume -- either as inline text or an attachment -- to potential employers.
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Training
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Local unemployment offices can assist those looking for jobs in contacting local agencies, such as adult literacy and basic education offices or community colleges that offer computer literacy training free of charge or for a nominal fee.
Additionally, public libraries offer access to computers and materials to help job hunters develop computer skills. Many public libraries host computer classes that are free or charge a small materials fee.
If you are currently receiving unemployment benefits, the cost for a computer course can be waived or covered as part of your benefits.
Applications/Resumes
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As computers have become more integral to business, they have become more integral to the job hunt. Many employers list their job openings exclusively on their company website or in online classifieds, and take applications or accept resumes in electronic formats, making computer literacy not only important for employment, but for gaining employment, as well.
Considerations
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MSNBC reporter Alex Johnson wrote in 2009 that older, less educated workers were not only less likely to have computer literacy skills, but are also bearing the brunt of unemployment in the U.S.
One of the programs targeted toward training and reemploying older workers mentioned by Johnson is Experience Works, a national non-profit organization that trains older workers in skills such as computer literacy while also assisting workers in finding employment that incorporates those skills.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit computer image by blaine stiger from Fotolia.com
