Are you wondering if your technology skills are up to date? While out of the workforce we have used technology at home or in our volunteer and part-time roles. Many of us have learned to use the software and apps our children are using to communicate. How do we ensure our technology skills are up to date and even if they are up to date do we know how to use the software used by our new or potential employer.
With two young adults in our house I have learned to use google calendar to share our schedules, email, text, snapchat, share stories on instagram, tweet, use Messenger & Facebook; I can even have an emoji only conversation. If you haven't tried this technology don't be fearful of it. Download the apps, put your settings on private (for now?) and give it a try!
But how does this translate to the office? Think about the software you have used before, are those skills up-to-date? Have you heard about Tableau or cloud based programs such as Slack, Asana and Trello. At the office you may find Skype, instant messaging, Microsoft Suite or Google products, and in-house systems. Our advice-- use technology to learn new technology. Online courses like www.lynda.com and www.alison.com provide new training or an opportunity to refresh skills. You might also consider evening classes at a local school. There are many ways to refresh or upgrade your skills. Make time in your day, even 10 minutes, to devote to learning or refreshing these skills.
In some instances it seems like we never left -sending an email is the same, but deciding when to instant message rather than email is something new. We might have had a conference call before but now we use "Go To Meeting" for a video meeting with a phone voice connection. Deciding what to use and when might be no different for you than another new employee working in a new environment.
It helps to remember that everyone was new at your employer at some point in time. The technical help desk and co-workers can shed light on why the system doesn't like your password or how to find a meeting location when rooms don't seem to be available through the software. And don't forget to try to search the internet for help. Many people have most likely asked the same question you have and there is a good chance you will find an answer, help, or the advice you need. You will be surprised at the number of YouTube videos that give you a demo or a the solution to your question.
So remember .... You can do this! We've got this!
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