As we swiftly move towards paperless workspaces, every function requires at least some level of interaction with computers. Those with sharp skills in using computers get an edge over those who don’t when interviewing for the same profile. And the good news is that using basic computer applications to get work done is not difficult at all. After putting some effort into getting acquainted with the applications, you will start experiencing much more efficient workdays.

1. Microsoft Office

An office would find it difficult to function without Microsoft Office. The suite has a set of tools that almost all functions at all workplaces have some use for. If you are still not very confident about your MS Office skills, brush them up before you start losing out on excellent job opportunities just because of this one shortcoming. Here is what all you need to learn:

• Spreadsheets

Excel spreadsheets are incredibly versatile tools for storing and organizing tabular data, doing calculations on it and performing some strong analytics. As the focus shifts to data in nearly all workplaces, it will become all the more important for workers at all levels to have to deal with at least some bit of it through Excel files. In this scenario, not knowing Excel well will snap points off your resume.

• PowerPoint

Presentations are a means of succinctly communicating the results of your work or an idea with others. Being able to quickly put up decent presentations without faltering is a skill you can highlight during interviews.

• Microsoft Access

Microsoft Access extends the data storage and analysis capability of Excel. While spreadsheets work splendidly for relatively small amounts of data, Access supports database management for huge volumes. It’s an extremely useful skill to have if your profile requires working with large datasets like those of annual sales figures.

• QuickBooks

QuickBooks is accounting software useful in accomplishing a range of tasks like managing bills, invoicing, tracking miles, managing contracts, reporting, inventory management and capital management. It finds applications most commonly in small to medium sized businesses. Owing to its versatility and reliability, QuickBooks has become a very popular tool and being able to use it will be an add-on in your resume.

• OneNote

OneNote is an interesting application that lets you store a variety of styles of notes from handwritten notes to screenshots to audio clippings to sketches. Many different users can collaborate and store their notes together in one place.

• Email

Almost all of business communication happens on email. Writing mails that put your point across without being wordy make you come across as professional and well put together.

2. Web and Social Skills

Web skills include being able to do an effective research on data, acquire a new skill off the Internet, or quickly get images or graphics to support your presentations. Even though nearly everybody can accomplish these tasks, those with real skills will be able to do so considerably faster than the others.

Social media skills too are exceptionally important in today’s workplace. This is the space where a significant number of leads are obtained, networks are formed and even hiring takes place. To begin with, brush up your LinkedIn profile and approach recruiters – this will in itself enhance your chances!

3. Troubleshooting

If a frozen program or a malfunctioning USB port leaves you in a frenzy, it is time to study the systems a little better so you can fix up little problems on your own. Delve a little into the common software and hardware you use, and watch YouTube videos on how to troubleshoot issues like crashes etc.

4. Graphic Design

From marketing to product design, graphics find a crucial space in many industry verticals, and knowing how to use all the computer resources at hand to create graphics is a highly valued skill.

5. Blogging

Whether you write about your own career progressions or do so for a product or service on behalf of a company, blogging is ubiquitous. Good blogs not just inform but also entertain the reader. If you have knowledge, blogging is one of the best ways to share it, and also to let potential employers understand the value you could bring them.

6. Writing Skills

Analytical writing is a powerful skill. While creative writing may be a bit of an inherent talent, analytical writing is a skill you can develop. Read lots of good blogs from your industry, make writing a habit and don’t hesitate in getting writing tips and feedback on your own writing by others. If you are planning to be a professional writer, you need to learn to use various tools such as spreadsheets, video editing, blogging platforms, collaboration apps etc to succeed.

7. Job Specific Skills

Besides generic computer proficiency, different job profiles may require their own specific set of computer skills. If you are applying into a role for the first time, do a research into the commonest technologies in use in that area, and make an effort at learning some or all of them on your own. Not having to train an employee from scratch on a software application is a delight to most employers and will naturally earn you some brownie points in the hiring process.