I upgraded my computer skills. While I kept busy applying for positions and doing informational interviews I also took time to upgrade my computer skills. WorkSource Oregon offered 20 hours of self-paced training in the use of Microsoft Office. The classes were actually offered by Portland Community College but available at the Capital Center where the WorkSource employment center is located.
Four courses in one month I took four courses to learn or improve my skills in MS Word, PowerPoint, Access and Excel. I spent four hours a day from 8:00AM until Noon for five day (20 hours) for each course. I found it to be a very practical and valuable learning experience. There were about 15 other men and women in the room. Most were in their 40's or older. All wanted to improve their skills in order to meet office skill requirements posted on job descriptions.
How expensive was the 80 hours of training? It didn't cost me anything! I qualified as a displaced worker with WorkSource and the state paid the tuition for me. All I had to do was attend all the classes and successfully complete the self-paced course work. The training manual and computer program showed me everything I had to do step-by-step. If I got stuck, there was a facilitator to help me. Portland Community College offered the classes I took for about $120 per course.
It was worth it. If lack of knowledge and skills in the use of a computer program is keeping you from being hired, it's worth the investment of time and money to get the training you need. Gaining the skills will not guarantee you a job but it will remove a reason for an employer to reject your resume.
Most of the courses only took me three days to complete. I could then review the material or do additional training assignments for the last two days of each week.
Was it worth the time? I certainly think so. My new career as a Career Advisor and Trainer involves writing documents and creating PowerPoint presentations. I gained skills and confidence. As an added bonus, I listed in my resume that I earned a certification for 80 hours of training in Microsoft Office. When employers read that, they take note that a candidate is teachable, takes initiative and is up-to-date with essential computer skills.
How to become proficient with an unfamiliar software program. Here is a valuable tip I learned from a fellow job seeker about becoming proficient with a software program an employer lists but you don't know. You can obtain many software programs for trial periods of 30-60 days for free. Download the program and practice using it! Most have tutorials or you can check out a training book at the library. You can also go online to Hewlett Packard and find free training courses for software. Make yourself a viable candidate by gain experience with computer programs employers expect job seekers to know.
