Want to improve your tech skills? You don’t need to break the bank…
Basic computer skills are now essential in a wide range of industries, making them a pretty invaluable asset – whether you’re looking for a new job or want to progress in your current one. Luckily, there are a variety of ways to get up-to-speed with the latest software – and not all of them come at a cost.
Here are a few ways to can gain essential IT skills (for free):
What IT skills do I need?
IT skills are becoming more and more essential in the workplace – no matter what field you’re in.
And with many employers considering IT proficiency a prerequisite, there’s never been a better time to brush up on your knowledge.
Here are a few of the most useful, versatile, and essential IT skills that everyone should learn:
- Word processing. An ability to use word processing software (e.g. Microsoft Word) efficiently is valuable across a wide range of sectors. This includes skills in data entry, layout and formatting, editing tools, and more.
- Spreadsheets. With software packages like Excel used daily in a number of different roles (in sectors from marketing and sales to HR and finance), your ability to create, manage, and analyse spreadsheets (along with charts and graphs) is vital.
- Presentation software. Alongside the ability to present confidently, it’s also useful to be competent in the software that allows you to put together an informative and engaging presentation. From slide editing and formatting, to animation and preparation, excellent PowerPoint techniques could drastically improve your skillset.
- Soft skills. It’s not just hard skills that employers are looking for when it comes to IT competency. From problem solving and analytical abilities, to communication skills and attention to detail, there are a number of soft skills needed to work in this industry.
How to gain essential IT skills
So you know what skills you need; but how do you get them?
Here are a few great ways to gain and develop your IT abilities:
- Practice
One of the best ways to learn is by doing. Just ask whoever invented the phrase, ‘practice makes perfect’.
Because whether it’s by watching/reading tutorials (or just going it alone) to get to grips with the basics of computing, creating your own projects, carrying out training and development at work, or taking an online training course – there are a number of ways to advance your skills.
From essential skills like web, email, and Microsoft Office, to more advanced industry-specific skills, you might find that all it takes is a proactive attitude (and access to a computer) to expand your knowledge.
- Learn from an expert
OK, so it might not always be possible to learn everything alone.
Luckily, there are a number of ways to gain essential IT knowledge and hands-on experience from tutors, mentors, employers, or other industry professionals.
Pursuing voluntary positions or internships within a field that allows you to work with computers, for example, is a great way to learn practically, with the guidance of others. If you’re able to work alongside IT professionals within your current organisation, that could also help to build your skillset.
In addition, attending conferences, listening to webinars, or taking a course with a dedicated tutor, are all great ways to gain valuable insights into not only the field of IT, but also on the best way to grow your skills.
- Take an online course
Taking a free IT course is the perfect way to combine all of the above learning techniques to develop your understanding of tech; and also boost your CV with an industry-specific qualification.
In fact, it’s perfect for anyone looking to develop their computer skills and improve their IT productivity – whether it’s to find a new job, enhance their performance in their current role, or fulfil a personal learning goal.
You can study in everything from cyber security and coding to software development and data, helping you to gain sector specific skills in an area you’re passionate about.
Ready to start studying? View all free courses now.
