Escaping from the fact that we live in a digital era is impossible. Computers are the core of so many things that we do in life and at work, and it’s challenging to find a job advertising these days that doesn’t feature some “computer literacy” as a necessary skill.
Because we live in a digital age, the following five digital skills offer you the best chance of landing any job you choose. The good news is you could already have all five skills! If you’re considering starting a new career, you’ve noticed skills like attention to detail, knowledge of basic computer programs and cooperation highlighted in job descriptions. These skills, such as digital literacy, come under an extensive range of abilities that are essentially vital yet can be overlooked at times.
The Essential Digital Skills Framework, a study from the UK government, was issued some time ago but is still very relevant. This section describes the essential abilities that all adults should acquire to participate in digital life safely and successfully.
Top Five Digital literacy skills
You can see why different levels of digital literacy may be required depending on the career you select. We have asked hiring managers to list some of the critical digital literacy skills they are looking for and why.
- Content Management & Information Management
The term “content” refers to text, photos, videos, and other forms of media that we encounter daily. For this competency, you should find the content you need online and actively engage with it. This includes using search engines like Google to find information, saving and organizing files on the device or cloud, and streaming music and video from sources like Netflix or Spotify.
You need to be able to go beyond Google and know other platforms to find various kinds of content. For example, Unsplash is a great source of free images. Nuwber can be used to find one’s contact info and any other additional details. Vimeo could be a Youtube alternative.
You also wish to know how to sync your devices so that some information, such as your calendar, is accessible from your PC and phone.
- Basic Knowledge of terms and common platforms
Although you may not consider Wi-Fi as something unusual, it did not even exist as a notion forty years ago. There are various terms that an average internet user should be familiar with, as well as many that you may learn with some more study.
According to Shayne Sherman, CEO of TechLoris, “digital literacy” entails learning your way around the digital landscape. “This does not indicate that you can build programs or set up and configure a new LAN in the office.”
Sherman views her familiarity with basic office applications as part of her digital literacy. “They should be comfortable with Microsoft Office and Google applications. Most programs should be manageable if you’re comfortable with Office.”
Sherman observes candidate emotions during interviews. “If I notice a glazed expression in their eyes as I approach more technical issues, they’re generally not a good fit.” But if I see that spark of recognition, we could have something.”
- Cooperation
“Playing well with people may not appear to be a particularly digital ability,” Cross-Smith, president of Heretto, argues. “When the entire team is part of an ecosystem that uses various technologies, the ability to blend collaboration with autonomous problem-solving makes true digital literacy a well-rounded professional trait.”
Furthermore, many firms rely on digital tools and software to facilitate collaboration. You don’t need to be an expert on every platform right first, but navigating with ease is beneficial.
- Adopting new technology
According to Joaquim Miro, one of the most critical aspects of digital literacy is quickly adopting new technology. “When it comes to workplace innovation, you must keep an open mind.”
“This is the most important skill since it allows the workplace to be flexible and up to date on the latest innovations in each company’s specialized industry.”
While we all prefer to feel at ease with our day-to-day jobs and the routines that go with them, the world isn’t fixed in time. New tools, technologies, and software will soon be introduced, and you must be prepared to make necessary modifications.
- Explaining and instructing about new technology
Technology has the potential to be significant in a variety of ways. Cross-Smith suggests educating a recruit on using the technology they will need daily. You may need to translate how you use a specific platform in cross-functional cooperation. “Ongoing digital literacy requires both understanding and providing knowledge,” says the author, “which is crucial since you will be on both the learning and teaching sides of technology for the rest of your career.”
Digital literacy is an easily transferable skill
You’ve probably noticed that most of the digital literacy abilities listed above aren’t technological. However, when people work in a digital environment, they gain the necessary skills for today’s employment.
The most appealing aspect of digital literacy to a job seeker may not be limited to specific technology or systems. The capacity to adapt to new technologies is a talent that develops with each new platform learned, and it can be utilized in any professional context.
Cross-Smith emphasizes the need for adaptability. “This is the ability to learn, extend, adapt, and navigate the always-changing digital environment.”
Verdict
Consequently, digital literacy isn’t the only broad term you’ll see in the workplace. There are other opportunities to find essential qualities you may not have recognized yet.
Now that you have a broad answer to the questions regarding Internet Literacy, you may be able to recognize some of these in your life. Employers want applicants who can adapt and flourish, as many vocations become more reliant on specialized technology for their jobs. You might be surprised to learn that you already have some of these valuable skills at work.
