Digital skills to find a better job

What is the course about?

This course will provide you with the digital skills you need to maximise your chances of finding a better job or moving out of unemployment - from looking for work to applying for it either by completing a job application and personal statement or writing a CV. You will learn how to make the most of on-line support. You will also focus on key aspects of word processing including writing and editing documents in Word and using its key features to ensure you have the skills needed for the modern workplace. Other IT skills will be addressed according to the needs of the group where possible. You will also receive on-going help, guidance and support from our experts in Information, Advice and Guidance to help you decide what the best ‘next step’ is for you.

This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.

What will we cover?

• the digital skills needed to improve your job prospects
• looking for work on-line, where to look and how to contact the right agencies
• applying for work either by completing a job application and personal statement or writing a CV
• how to use LinkedIn effectively and other on-line platforms
• key aspects of word processing including writing and editing documents in Word and using its main features
• other IT skills will be addressed according to the needs of the group where possible
• on-going help, guidance and support from our experts in Information, Advice and Guidance.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• make use of the main digital skills needed to improve your job prospects and employability
• identify where to look for work on-line and be confident in doing this
• contact the right agencies for the type of work you are looking for
• use LinkedIn effectively to look for work and advertise yourself
• complete a job application and personal statement effectively that will get you noticed and make the most of your skills
• write and present an effective CV
• use the key features of Word regularly required in most work environments
• identify the best ‘next steps’ for your work prospects
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What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You should have some computer skills and be reasonably confident in your use of the internet and keyboard skills.
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How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will learn in a supportive and welcoming environment with an emphasis on your discovering how to do and complete tasks and functions, with guidance from the tutor. You will learn in a step by step manner so you can achieve challenging aims in an enjoyable and productive way. You will have lots of opportunities to practise as well as understand what you are doing and why. Everyone will be encouraged to participate and interact in a way that is best for them, including working in pairs and groups, as well as on your own. You will need to do work outside the classroom and use Google Classroom to help you.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring a folder, pens and paper. There are no additional costs.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

There are a variety of other courses you could do either at the same time or after this course. We have a number of courses on Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint many of which are specifically geared to helping you in the workplace. We also have IT Skills for the Office: an introduction, Making sense of Windows 10. We have a number of courses with qualifications including ECDL Levels 1, 2, and 3. If you are unsure if you want to do a qualification course straight away, you can join one of our Pathway to ECDL courses.