From Job Seeker Weekly:

 

Article:	Do Executives Need Computer Skills?

By George Blomgren

I was recently taken to task about an article in which I mentioned some generalizations about older executives and computers. The gentleman challenged my generalization and argued that computer skills are over-rated and may be of limited value for senior executives. On both counts, there may be some merit to his arguments.

He then admitted his computer skills were limited. Mentioning that his company was heading for layoffs, he admitted he had some concerns about his future. He wanted to know specifically what an executive should know about computers.

Almost any worker in an office environment today needs basic computer proficiencies, even executives. In a nutshell, these include familiarity with hardware and the operating system (typically Windows) - monitor, CPU, printer and their basic functions. You should know how to turn on a PC, login to a network, locate and copy files. Additionally, most office workers should have experience with an office productivity suite, most commonly MS Office. The suite includes Word, Excel, Outlook and several other programs. The ability to create word processing documents and spreadsheets are office essentials. Email skills and basic web browsing are critical.

Aside from the value of these basic skills, achieving this level of mastery bestows an important overall benefit otherwise hard to come by. People who lack hands-on technology skills reveal their limited computer knowledge any time they talk about technology. Consider this parallel: I can read lots of books about brain surgery, but as soon as I start talking to a real brain surgeon, I'll give myself away. The same thing happens when non-computer users talk technology - even those who read the Wall Street Journal's technology news regularly. In today's work environment, we do talk about technology, (even in high-level strategic meetings) and it's dangerous to look ignorant every time the subject comes up.

So, if you need to advance your computer skills, what's the best way? Depending on how you learn best, start with one of three paths - classes, books or PC lessons. No matter which path, you must practice what you're learning. Either at work or home, you need to use your new skills daily.

If you decide to tackle this from home, and you need to purchase a computer, try to get the same software you use at work - using AOL email from home won't help you with Outlook at work. Exercise similar care with regard to an office suite: many home PCs come with MS Works, which is different than MS Office, the software most offices use.

As Operations Manager for a Milwaukee-based employee benefits firm, George Blomgren is often involved in recruiting and interviewing. He provides an employer's perspective on job-hunting issues.