Finding a job in a competitive market is tough, but the right combination of skills can make it easier for college graduates to stand out. Research from LinkedIn reveals that 20 of the top 25 skills sought by employers are technology skills. By focusing on teaching some of these skills, you can help students gain employment opportunities and achieve success in their chosen career paths. Here are some basic technology skills all students, regardless of their major, must learn to improve their career prospects.
Cloud computing is used by organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to multinational corporations. It enables employees to create, share and access documents and files from any web-enabled device. The growing use of cloud computing has created a need for employees with basic cloud computing skills. Teaching students to use cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, OneDrive and Dropbox, is one way to boost familiarity with cloud computing.
All organizations use data, and proper data management and presentation are critical to driving business performance and growth. The need to turn data into insight that provides organizational value means there is increasing demand for employees with data management and presentation skills. Introducing students to database and spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Access and Google Sheets; presentation programs, such as Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides; and document creation programs, such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs, is key to developing these core competencies.
Practicing proper online etiquette and maintaining a high level of Internet security awareness is something that many employees overlook. Hiring college graduates with the skills required to communicate effectively and safely can help organizations maintain a professional image and improve Internet security when conducting business online. Teaching best practices, such as using proper spelling, grammar and punctuation when communicating online, creating strong passwords, running vulnerability scanning tools and backing up data, is essential to preparing students for employment.
Teaching students the technology skills they need to prepare for successful careers has never been more important. It is no longer enough for students to learn just the specifics of their majors – they also need the technology skills that employers across all fields will look for in job seekers.