How Computer Literate Are You?
Everyday IT skills have become the key to earning more money, keeping an existing job or getting a new one according to new research among both bosses and staff. Yet many people still need to bring their computer knowledge up to scratch.
In a learndirect survey half of employers said they view IT-savvy workers as more valuable to their business than those lacking these skills.
Six-in-ten companies say they would increase a salary offer in a bid to attract someone able to use applications such as email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and the internet.
When recruiting, 92% of businesses ask about applicants’ ability to use IT, and 73% of companies say these skills are a must for all employees.
Most employers (94%) also claim existing staff would perform more efficiently if they improved their computer skills, with nearly two-thirds (61%) saying IT ability among staff is increasingly essential for the continued success of their sector.
Staff believe computer skills are vital to their job - only a good grasp of English and communication skills are considered more important. Despite this, two-thirds (64%) aren’t fully confident in their ability to use IT, with 29% admitting they’ve had to redo tasks, cover up mistakes or deal with an angry boss because they lacked the right skills.
Commenting on the findings, Colin McDonald, Head of Curriculum Development at learndirect said "The research shows how important IT has become in the modern workplace. A large majority of jobs now need staff who know how to use computers, so it’s crucial people aren’t left behind as IT becomes central to working life.
"Learndirect offers flexible qualifications to help people improve their everyday IT skills whether they’re looking for a new job, want to progress in their current one or simply want to know how to do more with a home computer.
"Our qualifications fit around learners’ lives and our friendly advisers are on hand to offer support."
More widely among the general public, people are struggling with a number of common IT terms:
* 23% don’t understand the meaning of the term ‘web page’;
* 19% don’t understand the word ‘inbox’;
* 15% can’t explain what a ‘download’ is.
Many also recognise the benefits of being computer literate outside the workplace, with 36% of Britons claiming it helps save money on bills and shopping and almost a fifth (19%) saying it leads to better relationships with friends and family.
5% admit a lack of IT skills has meant they’ve had to ask a child for help to do something with the computer.
Tagged in Recruitment