In this job market it is important to have some bread and butter skills to help you in the lean times of a recession. Though most indicate that the job market is improving. It is best to arm yourself with some basic tools that will keep food on your table. Even if your field is medicine or construction most all business will require basic computer skills. Being behind on some technology changes is in the same category as not knowing how to read. Don't get left in the dark. Fortunately, even though employers seek out those with the most up to date skills in this era getting the education you need will prove easier then in past generations. With places like Coursera and other free educational sites you can get basic to even complex skills to help you find the job you want. The down side is, of course, this makes the competition ever so much more . Therefore, with access to so much free information its important now more than ever to be an expect in a specific area. The following are some tips to help you get the most from the free resources available.
Learn Microsoft Office Suite
I know this seems like a no brainer, however, making sure you are in the know on the lastest programs, before they come out, will keep you from getting lost in the sauce. While there are many free office programs out there online, most offices still use Microsoft to manage at least one part of their day to day business activities. Remember new versions come out usually every two years, so even ancient companies use at least the 2003-2007 version of Microsoft OfficeSuite. No matter your field, you would do well to learn the basic computer programs that most businesses use. Try to research computer trends by reading the tech section of the newspaper. You will be up to date on the most current software available and which versions will be coming out.
Take advantage of YouTube and other online tutorials
Places like YouTube and others offer tutorials on the lastest programs available. Do what you can and try not to let the techy language scare you. Remember many videos are not college courses so the information may or may not be what your place of employment requires; remember to always take non-credible sources with a grain of salt.
Be an expert
Get certified. Some fields like being a doctor will never worry about job security, so if you want job security make sure you learn a speciality. Even if you are certified in WORD, EXCEL or more advanced computer training; using keyword searches employers with a special need may have an easier time finding you.
Talk to others in your field, join LinkedIn to keep up to date on new tech and skills trends in your field. It's important to remember what was needed in the past may not be in demand now. So keep learning and much success to you in your job search.
