Best Work Productivity Apps for Your Mobile Device

Work-life balance looks different today than it did 20 years ago. More people than ever want to get things done with a smartphone in their hand, rather than be stuck to a computer. Not only that, but a lot of jobs move at a startling pace, thanks in great deal to the power of computer software. It’s easy, then, to feel left behind in the world of productivity software and mobile devices.

It’s almost as easy to fall into the “groove” of the productivity software though, as it is to fall behind. A little bit of effort on the front end to take stock of your busy day can help you find just the right productivity apps that enable you to work out of the office and still get more done. 

17 Best Work Productivity Apps for Your Mobile Device 

Here is our list of 17 of the best work productivity apps for your mobile device, along with links to free tutorials to help you get started.

1. DropBox

If you lead a life where you tackle projects at odd times of the day or night, using cloud storage such as DropBox can make it easy for you to pass along completed projects from your smartphone. Simply backup your computer work in your DropBox drive, sign in from your smartphone or tablet, and you have access to these docs wherever you can access the Internet from your device.

Attaching documents (Word docs, spreadsheets, presentations, images, and more) from DropBox to an email or text is simple and fast. For those that like to work from the palm of their hand, DropBox (or a cloud storage equivalent) is a must have.

Click here for a free DropBox tutorial.

2. Slack

With the look and feel of Twitter merged with instant messenger, Slack allows a company to virtually connect departments and teams on projects. Especially for those that hire remotely or on flexible schedules, this app can keep you connected easily throughout the day. It effectively eliminates hours of unnecessary meetings and even integrates with other productivity software including (but not limited to): 

• DropBox
• Trello
• Asana
• Gmail
• Outlook
• Salesforce

Click here for a free Slack tutorial. 

3. HelloSign

If your work requires signatures, HelloSign is one of the better (and cheaper options available). You can send and receive documents for legally-binding agreements. If you want to spend money for an entire team of users, there are a number of paid options. But for just yourself, it is free to use and sign. You can also use the app to send reminders or updated contracts and more.

Click here for instructional videos on getting started with HelloSign.

4. Trello

Trello organizes your life through lists and boards. You can create your own lists and boards or use a number of templates available. Signing up is free, and the user interface works similarly to Pinterest and Medium. While most people use this app to organize both their personal and professional lives, some companies use the app to collaborate on projects with employees and freelancers. If you’re a list person, this app is definitely for you.

Click here for a free Trello tutorial. 

5. Google Hangouts

If you do not care for all the bells and whistles on Slack but want to be able to communicate with your team via an instant messenger, Google Hangouts is popular and simple to use. In addition to instant messages, the app allows you free video conferencing and screen sharing for presentations or tutorials. Also, if you do not care to share your personal phone number with clients and contractors, Hangouts integrates with Google Voice where you can create a separate phone number that routes to your cell for free.

Click here for a free Google Hangouts tutorial.

6. Google Docs

Instead of attaching a Word document or spreadsheet in an email, share them for free on Google Docs (also known as Google Drive). You can do word processing and many of the same Excel functions on Google Sheets, as well as build slide presentations on Google Slides. It works well for computer, tablet, and smartphone. If your office decides that they don’t care to pay for Microsoft Office anymore, you might get by just on Google Docs alone. All the documents are cloud-based and available for use to anyone that has been given permissions and has an Internet connection.

Click here for a free Google Docs tutorial.

7. YouTube

If you are interested in new software or simply knowing how to fix a problem yourself, there are literally thousands of experts on YouTube making videos to help beginners. From changing your oil to becoming an expert computer coder, YouTube has everything, and as long as you don’t mind the occasional ad, it’s all free from the palm of your hand.

8. Evernote

If you like the idea of Trello, but you work more comfortably using post-it notes and notebooks, then Evernote may be the better solution. Power users of the app swear by it, and are constantly amazed at the developments that allow them to save and organize everything that they need. This app tracks lists, photo reminders, document attachments, voice memos, and even has the ability to read text from an image.

For those that have a fast-paced life and a poor memory, Evernote is your second brain, easy to use, and completely free.

Click here for a free Evernote tutorial.

9. LastPass

Isn’t it nice when your iCloud keychain helps you keep track of your passwords? Or maybe for you it’s Google Chrome? Or maybe it’s both. Wouldn’t it be nice if all of these security password systems could integrate and work together? That’s what LastPass is.

With a single password (or fingerprint), you can keep all your passwords in one place. This includes bank logins, social media, and even your WiFi passwords. You can activate and deactivate devices that you use and want to have access to your LastPass account. There is both a free version, as well as a few paid options for individuals, families, and organizations.

Click here for a free LastPass tutorial.

10. Focus Booster

Do you feel that you waste time? Or, maybe you have an unusually long work day that wouldn’t be so long if you could focus just a little more during the day? If this is true of you, you may already be familiar with the Pomodoro Technique. According to this technique, you should learn to maintain superb focus for blocks of 25 minutes. However, after 25 minutes, you deserve a quick break in order to resume focus. That block of 25 minutes is called the pomodoro. After so many pomodoros, you deserve greater rewards and longer breaks.

Believers in the Pomodoro Technique developed the Focus Booster app that teaches you to access your powers of concentration in blocks of 25 minutes. Those that use the technique and the app find that they accomplish far more in far less time. It helps you keep distractions at bay while also making time for others (or other things) throughout the day. Finally, it also helps you stretch the concentration powers of your brain while also consistently giving it the break it needs to keep going at optimum levels.

Click here for a free Focus Booster tutorial.

11. CamScanner

CamScanner helps you send official-looking PDFs from images on your smartphone or tablet. It seems simple enough, but it happens to be one of the most helpful digital tools for people on the go. Whether you are needing to send identification or income documents to your mortgage lender or signature pages for a time-sensitive contract, all you need to do is snap a picture from the app using your mobile device’s camera. It will instantly convert the image into a professional-looking scanned PDF.

Click here for a quick guide to getting started with CamScanner.

12. Square Appointments

For automatic scheduling, services like Calendly only allow you to set up and manage bookings on a computer. Square Appointments allows you to manage everything from your mobile device. Whether you are booking appointments with clients, consultations, or even onsite trade jobs, the app allows you to set your availability and then let clients and colleagues book times on your calendar that works best for them.

Also, if you already use Square as your merchant provider or point of sale system, Appointments will sync with those apps, as well. However, the service is not free. That being said, for those that provide services and manage a high volume of meetings each week, the convenience is well-worth the cost.

Click here for a free Square Appointments tutorial.

13. Toggl

Do you want to track your hours for various projects but don’t want to feel restricted by the 25-minute pomodoros? Want to work with team members so that you can track their hours? Both are easily accomplished using the Toggl app.

Aside from a simple time tracker, there is an endless supply of features that allow for both auto time tracking and manual tracking. Whether keeping track of hours for a contracted project or simply wanting to boost your own productivity, Toggl tracks everything and gives you regular reports. The free version is itself quite extensive, but there are also paid versions that might work better for your team or company.

Click here for a free Toggl tutorial.

14. IFTTT

IFTTT is the name of the app and also an acronym, If This Then That. For those that love social media, digital tools, mobile devices, and wearables, IFTTT will not let you down. While each user’s needs are different, the app sets off a chain reaction of digital actions that you want it to take. And all you need to do is set up a “recipe” of the first action which triggers the next and then the next. This often includes social media posting, but can also include a wide variety of digital integrations, such as unlocking doors and turning on lights.

Of all the productivity apps in this list, this one is the most intense and best suited for the tech junkie. But be warned. Start slowly with one or two recipes until you get the hang of it. Once you feel comfortable, your life will become wildly more convenient than you thought possible.

Click here for a free IFTTT tutorial.

15. Asana

For the more robust version of an app that combines the collaborative potential of both Trello (lists and boards) and Slack (communication), Asana is a project manager’s best friend. It integrates with nearly all the leading productivity apps and is built for project teams with a wide variety of customizable needs.

If you’ve already been using a few of the productivity apps listed here and still feel less than efficient, getting started with Asana is likely your next step to streamlining your professional life. And best of all, it works perfectly with your smartphone. 

Click here for a free Asana tutorial.

16. Milanote

Here’s one more app that will help your productivity. Milanote is a tool for organizing creative projects into beautiful visual boards. By design, it feels a lot like working on the wall in a creative studio – visual, tactile and sometimes a bit messy – Milanote is a great fit for designers who work in teams remotely.Key Features:

• Write notes & to-do lists, upload images & files and save things you find on the web
• Organize visually using the flexible drag and drop interface.
• Boards by default are a private place to think, but with a single click you can create a shared workspace for collaboration with your team.
• Milanote is filled with hundreds of built-in templates to help you get started with a variety of different projects, from creating a moodboard to writing that perfect creative brief.

Pricing: Free version available with no time limit. PRO version $9.99 per month (monthly and annual plans).

17. Xtensio

Xtensio is a fully-packed project management tool where collaborators can share and edit files simultaneously. It is also a powerful tool for team collaboration where everyone can create and design business contents and documents. It helps increase team’s productivity with its drag-and-drop features and available professional-looking templates.

Pricing: It’s free to try, Basic plan is $8 a month per user, and the Full Access plan is $15 a month per user.

Take Time to Practice 

Many people that are determined to maintain their current workload while getting out of the office are making it work with these powerful productivity apps. Don’t be surprised if you feel confused at first as you try to integrate new technology into your daily routine.

It’s like learning any new skill. Keep practicing and you’ll find that your work goes faster and looks more professional with the help of these productivity apps for your mobile device.

Our step-by-step guide to improving your productivity at work will help you get on the right track.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/3hroVbw

Read More

14 of The Best Real Work From Home Jobs

Are you looking for a job that will let you work from home or from wherever you happen to be? In today’s world, there are more legitimate jobs that allow you to work remotely than ever before. If you’ve got the right skills, there are plenty of options to consider, including jobs where you’re on a company’s payroll as an employee and gigs where you’re your own boss and you line up clients to work for.

What You Need to Get Started

Some positions require professional certifications and advanced education, while, for others, you simply need excellent communications skills and the equipment necessary to work from a home or another remote location.

A work from home job requires that you have a reliable computer and Internet access. It is ideal to have at least one backup computer or access to a computer you can use in case your primary equipment goes down. In some jobs, the employer may provide a computer and a phone, but this is not very common.

You’ll also need basic computer skills, strong time management skills, and a workspace where you can focus on the job without a lot of distractions.

14 Real Work From Home Jobs

Here are good remote job options to consider, their salary range, a brief job description, what you need to get hired, and where to look for jobs.

1. Customer Service Representative

Income Range: $25,000-$40,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Salary.com)

Compared to most work from home jobs, it is especially important that remote customer service representatives have their office set up in a quiet room. While you don’t need much experience to begin a career, you do need to possess decent phone etiquette and be able to work with a computer.

Most companies hiring remote customer service representatives do require you to have a landline phone and Internet that you can connect to via an Ethernet cable.

To get started: You should note any current or transferrable skills relevant to customer service and tweak your resume to highlight those skills. Here is a list of the top 100 companies hiring remote customer service representatives.

2. Computer Programming

Income Range: $60,000-$100,000+/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & U.S. News and World Report)

Much of today’s infrastructure is sustained by artificial intelligence. These computers must have coding engineers telling them what to do. That is basically what your job is as a computer programmer. Naturally, you need experience to be a professional programmer. While formal training is not required, it can be a great way to learn and make connections in the industry.

To get started: Begin building a portfolio to demonstrate your skills and then search for jobs via websites such as Coding Ninjas, FlexJobs, Stack Overflow, and We Work Remotely. Often, computer programmers work as freelancers through websites such as UpWork. If you lack formal training and a lot of paid experience, it is usually best to use a freelance site or two to help you gather more experience.

3. Website Developer

Income Range: $40,000-$85,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

Developers learn and do many of the same things as programmers, except that they create and manage online tools.

• Some developers are front-end: that is, they are skilled in creating code that looks appealing and is user-friendly for website users.
• Other developers are back-end, meaning that they handle intricate, functional tools that online software might use to interpret, calculate, and otherwise interact with users.

To get started: Consider volunteering or contributing to open-source projects to build your portfolio. Most web developers are freelance, and freelance sites such as UpWork and fiverr allow new developers to begin making a little money while they gain experience. Many of the best web developer jobs are acquired in the same way you would find a computer programming job. The tech industry is always in need of expert coders.

4. Freelance Writing, Blogging, or Editing

 Income Range: $30,000-$75,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

For great writers, there is still a strong market for published books, scripts, etc. But even if you are not a great writer capable of producing a bestseller, your strong writing skills are in high demand in a variety of roles. With the growing world of content marketing, for example, you could write and proofread content for business blogs or marketing pieces.

Career writers are bloggers, editors, journalists, children’s book writers, poets, and more. You are likely to do well if you enjoy writing and have a liberal arts degree from a university.

To get started: You need a portfolio relevant to the industry and type of writing work you desire. For example, a business in the psychology industry often needs writers who are highly knowledgeable in the field and able to communicate complex ideas to novices. Among the best freelance websites for writers are UpWork, FlexJobs, and We Work Remotely.

5. Graphic Designer

 Income Range: $30,000-$60,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

In business branding, graphic design is key. Most people know beautiful when they see it, but it takes a unique touch and expertise to be able to craft the perfect logo, flyer, or ad. While many graphic designers have a formal education, some experts have taught themselves.

You will need a working knowledge of design programs such as Adobe Photoshop and InDesign. If you have a flair for graphic design but are unfamiliar with Adobe programs, you can complete tutorials for free and even pass certifications.

To get started: you will need a portfolio of visually impressive designs. If you are new to doing graphic design for money, you should consider freelancing your skills for a bit until you are more experienced. Freelance sites such as UpWork and fiverr offer plenty of graphic designer jobs.

6. Medical Billing and Coding

Income Range: $30,000-$65,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics Statistics & All Allied Health Schools)

A key role in the healthcare industries is played by reliable coders, medical assistants who can interpret physicians’ notes for patients and assign the appropriate codes for medical billing. A separate but closely related role is medical billing, where medical assistants use the codes to send to a patient’s insurance company.

Both coders and billers typically work out of their homes. If you begin a career in medical coding and billing, your schedule will be extremely flexible.

To get started:  Getting trained in coding (even if you are a biller) is highly recommended. There are a number of certification and degree programs that will train you in a short time and at a moderate cost. Companies will hire coders and billers as freelancers or as payroll employees.

7. Accounting and Bookkeeping

Income Range: $30,000-$100,000+/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics Statistics)

Many individuals and small business owners can’t keep track of books on their own, and filing taxes on their own is not an option. While accountants are typically certified and college educated, bookkeepers simply need to have a high school degree and be good with numbers.

If you get excited about spreadsheets and find that you can easily understand accounting programs such as QuickBooks, you might try bookkeeping. Many accounting practices hire bookkeepers, and small business owners often outsource their books to someone else.

To get started: you can take tutorials for free on Microsoft and QuickBooks. Many tax-filing businesses (such as H&R Block and Liberty Tax) will hire extra bookkeepers around tax season. Becoming a full accountant is hard work, but it is highly lucrative. A happy medium for many is becoming an enrolled agent (EA). EAs do not have to complete as many certifications/credentials as accountants, but they are fully authorized to file taxes and assist in the event of an audit.

8. Virtual Therapist

 Income Range: $30,000-$100,000+/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & ZipRecruiter)

If you are a mental health professional and licensed therapist, demand is increasing rapidly for virtual therapists. While virtual therapists make slightly less than traditional therapists, your schedule will be more flexible, and you do not have to commute.

To get started: more and more virtual therapy websites (such as TalkSpace) are catering to those looking for virtual therapy. Listing yourself as a virtual therapist on Psychology Today also helps the right patients get in touch with you.

9. Virtual Assistant

 Income Range: $20,000-$60,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

Anyone who is moderately experienced working as an administrative assistant or secretary can easily perform the same tasks virtually. Some virtual assistants negotiate with their employers to make their jobs remote. You would likely be more successful, however, if you worked with an individual or company that is specifically looking for a virtual assistant.

Today, most virtual assistants manage client email and social media accounts. But you could be called upon to assist in a wide variety of clerical tasks, including data entry.

To get started: You don’t need any experience to get started. However, the more experience you have with virtual communication tools and social media, the more valuable you will be to your employers. Most virtual assistants work for owner-operator entrepreneurs or successful freelancers. You should pick a specific industry in order to land the better jobs.  A number of websites help connect employers with virtual assistants, such as Timeetc, Fancy Hands, and UpWork.

10. Teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language

 Income Range: $25,000-$80,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

English has become one of the most important languages to know, especially if you live in a developing country. While many people who teach English as a second/foreign language actually travel overseas, you can easily build a large base of students virtually from your home office. The best part is, you don’t need experience teaching if you are already fluent in English and have a college degree.

To get started: There are many websites looking for online teachers. You would need to consider what age or level of English you would prefer to teach to non-native speakers. Some experienced online instructors have been successful at going completely independent, building their own websites and setting their own rates. You will need fast Internet, a computer, and a webcam to interact with your students.

11. Digital Marketing (Google and Facebook Ads)

Income Range: $30,000-$70,000/year (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Indeed)

Digital advertising is growing more powerful and also more confusing for businesses. Both Google and Facebook ads managers are more complicated than ever when it comes to building the ad and targeting the perfect recipients. You could learn the ropes of how these online programs work and deliver powerful ad engagement to small businesses nationwide from your home computer.

To get started: You should get some training in the world of digital marketing and ads managers. While some digital marketers can do both Facebook and Google Ads, most prefer to specialize in one. Google Academy is free, and after completing the basic and advanced courses, you can become officially Google Ads certified. Facebook offers free training and certifications as well.

12. Website and App Testing

Income Range: $25,000-$75,000/year (Glassdoor & ZipRecruiter)

Many companies need people to test the usability of their apps and websites before launch or for ongoing improvement. You do not have to be a computer programmer or website developer in order to be successful as a tester.

Unless you are experienced at software coding, it is difficult to make a lot of money. But if you know how to navigate a website and use a smartphone, you can start making a little money on the side testing websites and completing surveys. Some of these gigs are app-based, and it’s a quick and easy way to earn some extra money.

 To get started: You might check out a handful of websites looking for testers: UserTesting, Userbrain, and TryMyUI. If you are an experienced software coder, you can make quite a bit of money testing websites and apps full-time via a freelance website such as UpWork.

13. Telemedicine

Income Range: $65,000-$200,000+ (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & Payscale.com)

Technology is saving medical practices and insurance companies millions of dollars. That’s why they are looking for qualified medical professionals to assist with formal health assessments and a more streamlined way to prescribe medicine.

You do, of course, need to be a credentialed physician or nurse in order to advance in telemedicine. But if you have the expertise and no longer wish to leave your home, you can do quite well virtually.

To get started: many telehealth practices are actively seeking your expertise. You can search  “telemedicine” on job boards (such as this one on ZipRecruiter). Also check telemedical services that hire directly. DoctorOnDemand, for example, has opportunities for employee and independent contractor physicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists. While Teladoc has opportunities to practice telemedicine via phone or video. If you are more entrepreneurially minded, you can launch your own telemedicine practice.

14. Translator

 Income Range: $35,000-$100,000+ (US Bureau of Labor Statistics & ZipRecruiter)

It seems that there are far more translation jobs than there are available translators. Any bilingual or trained linguist can do it. Translation needs include verbal translation, but most often translators are creating written translations of an original piece of writing or audio file or proofreading others’ translations.

Many people who teach English as a second language (but also know the native language of their students) supplement their income with translation work. Military veterans who formerly did linguistics in third world languages can do translation full-time for decent pay.

To get started: make sure that your resume highlights your language abilities. Look for translation companies that are hiring translators, such as Google or Global Link Translations Ltd.

More Remote Job Options

If you’re looking for work that doesn’t require a high level of skills, check out these easy work from home computer jobs.

Is travel in your plans? With some remote jobs, you may be able to take your work with you when you travel. Here’s a selection of excellent job opportunities for travelers.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/35kNJiR

Read More

Basic Computer Skills Every Worker Needs

When we talk about computer skills in a professional context, we’re usually talking about job-specific skills, e.g. Python for data scientists or Salesforce for sellers. But before you get to the advanced stuff, you need to build a foundation.

Without basic computer skills, you may find it hard to move on to the more complicated software and tools that will help you advance in your career. In fact, there are some skills that are so essential for modern working life, you need them even if your job takes place entirely outside of an office environment.

If you’re having trouble starting or growing your career, ask yourself if you need to brush up on some of these basics. (Then, dive into these free ways to improve your computer skills.)

10 Basic Computer Skills Every Worker Needs Now

1. Email

Don’t laugh – knowing how to use email in your personal life is not the same thing as knowing how to use it professionally. To get the most out of your email, you need to be able to:

• Stay organized. Use folders and rules to keep your inbox tidy and your deliverables clear – and delete the junk.
• Stay focused. Disable your alerts and check your email only once or twice a day. Choose a time when you’ll have a few minutes to file messages appropriately and plan responses.
• Stay appropriate for work. Using your personal email for professional purposes like job searching? Now’s not the time for the cute, silly, or NSFW handle. Keep it clean and intuitive – like firstname.lastname@gmail.com.

2. Collaboration Apps

If you haven’t had an office job for a while, you might be surprised to discover that email is no longer the only – or at some companies, the principle – choice for work communications. Collaboration apps like Slack combine the interoffice memo functionality of email with the immediacy of instant messaging. You may find that most of your watercooler chatter and casual collaboration takes place over a messaging system like this. Meanwhile, workflow management apps like Asana and Trello have crept out of software development and into the workplace in other industries. This roundup provides a good overview of some of the most common collaboration tools, as well as other productivity apps that might make your workflow easier.

3. Word Processing

Most offices around the world use either Microsoft Office or G Suite for their enterprise applications, including word processing software. (No seriously: according to Statista, the two providers combined have 93.2% global market share.)

But just because you’re probably using one or the other (or both), doesn’t mean that you know all the tips and tricks – or even how to get your formatting to go back to normal after an inadvertent keyboard lean moves your margins to the center of the page.

If it’s been a while since you really looked at the options in Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it might be time for a refresher. Both Microsoft and Google offer tutorials: Word for Windows TrainingHow to Use Google Docs

4. Basic Google Skills

And speaking of Google, do you know what the world’s most popular search engine is showing employers about your work history – and personal life? Even if you don’t use a computer for work, it’s a good idea to Google yourself when you’re applying for jobs.

Chances are that the hiring manager will do the same. According to a CareerBuilder survey, 66% of employers say that they use search engines to research candidates, while 70% review candidates’ social media profiles. Post something that makes you appear unprofessional – pictures of you partying, for example, or rants about a former employer – and you could find your resume moved to the “no” pile.

But Google-proofing your online reputation isn’t the only reason to start searching. Google and other search engines can help you find out more information on the employer, as well. Check Google News for recent stories about the company and its officers, and run Google searches on the names of anyone who’ll be interviewing you.

You might find out that you have more in common with your potential boss than you knew – or you might find some deal breakers that change your mind about interviewing.

5. Social Media

Your social media use can work against you during a job search in some surprising ways. While those party photos are an obviously bad idea, the solution isn’t to become completely invisible online. (Not that you’re likely to achieve that unless you just bought your first computer yesterday.)

The aforementioned CareerBuilder survey showed that employers are even more likely to look up candidates on social media than they are to look for them via search engine.

And if they can’t find you on social, they might think twice before extending an offer – 20% say that they expect candidates to have an online presence. Need help curating your social profiles? This primer will tell you how to get the right sort of attention online.

6. Spreadsheets

If you use spreadsheets for work, chances are that you’re using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. The two products have a lot in common – as well as a few key differences. (In short: Excel offers more storage and a formula for just about everything, while Google Sheets makes it easier to collaborate with others and a low, low price point of zero dollars.)

Want to improve your spreadsheet skills? Get help from Microsoft 365 Training, the G Suite Learning Center, or one of HubSpot’s resources.

7. Presentation Software

Employers want solid public speaking skills, but just knowing how to deliver a speech won’t be enough to hold your coworkers’ and clients’ attention.

Facility with presentation software can make the difference between a riveting presentation and an awkward yawn fest. Microsoft PowerPoint dominates this space with some competition from Apple Keynote, Prezi, Google Slides, etc.

Learn one of these, and you’ll learn enough basics to transition to whatever presentation software your future employer prefers. PowerPoint for Windows TrainingKeynote Support

8. Video Meeting Software

Unsurprisingly, the pandemic led to a boom in video meeting software downloads. But even when COVID-19 is behind us, it’s likely that video meetings – and job interviews! – are here to stay.

Certainly, today’s office worker needs to be able to navigate a Zoom or GoToMeeting. To avoid looking like the clueless coworker in every Zoom-themed commercial, learn more about video meetings and interviews here.

9. Security Best Practices

Surveys show that over half of computer users choose the same password for multiple accounts. You don’t need to be a security pro to know why that’s bad. But that’s not the only security mistake most of us are making.

Even if you never use your computer for work-related purposes, it pays to bone up on security basics. Why? Because ID theft can cause big problems during the background check phase of the job interview process. Keep your information secure and save yourself some headaches.

10. Touch Typing

If you’ve made it this far hunting and pecking, you might be tempted to give touch typing a pass. But there are plenty of good reasons to learn to type, even later in your career. (Just for starters: you’ll save yourself loads of time and appear more professional when you type in front of coworkers, for example, in a meeting environment.)

Best of all, there are loads of excellent free touch-typing programs online, so you can learn at your own speed and on your own time.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/35bR43U

Read More

13 Signs You Should Turn Down a Job Offer

It can be a difficult decision to make, to turn down a job offer, especially if you have been looking for some time. Remember though, that you spend a lot of your time at work, and it is really important that you find the right fit.

Taking the time to evaluate whether the job you have been offered is the right job is well worth it, for your sake (and your family) as well as for your potential employer. Remember, you’re not the only one whose turned down a job – here are some of the most common reasons for rejecting a job offer.

In addition to the job content, evaluate both the salary and the benefits. Here’s a job benefits comparison worksheet you can use to help with your decision-making. After you have crunched the numbers, consider some of the other factors that aren’t as quantifiable. Those are as important as the compensation package. When considering both types of factors, sometimes it can make good sense to say no thank you.

Review these warning signs that should, at least, get you thinking about whether it makes sense to accept – or decline – a job offer.

13 Signs You Should Turn Down a Job Offer

Your gut says no.

One of the best bosses I ever worked for told me to listen to my gut, and he was right. If you left the interview with a knot in your stomach and hoped you wouldn’t get an offer though the job offered a high salary and greater responsibility, it may be time to decline.

Nobody has anything good to say.

At lunch, you had the opportunity to meet some potential colleagues who report to your prospective boss. When you asked them to describe her management style, they hesitated and struggled to convey any positives.

You’re not sure what you would be doing.

The employer was unable to communicate a clear sense of what your job would entail. If more information would help you make a decision, it’s fine to ask for more details.

You’re looking for work-life balance.

You are a parent and need to balance between work and family. It became apparent during the interview process that a key to a successful career in the organization would be working late many evenings.

You would have to get up and talk.

The employer is looking for someone who excels at public speaking or requires some other skill that is not strength for you, and you are not interested in developing that skill area.

There’s too much turnover.

Turnover in your prospective job is much higher than normal for the industry.

The career ladder isn’t clear.

You are interested in career advancement, and a career ladder rising from your prospective job is not well defined.

There’s too much too learn too soon.

Neither formal or informal mechanisms for training appear to be in place, and the job would involve a steep learning curve for you.

Your values don’t mesh with the company’s mission.

Your personal values are at odds with the mission or practices of the organization. For example, you are a dedicated environmentalist and the organization has a reputation as a major polluter.

The company isn’t as successful as you would like.

The company is losing market share in their industry, and success in your role would require a well-respected brand.

The salary isn’t enough.

The salary offered is a step up for you but significantly below market for the job, and the prospect of gaining salary increases is not clear.

The base salary is too low.

Compensation is heavily weighted with commissions and/or bonuses and the goals for achieving adequate compensation do not seem reasonable.

There isn’t enough room for personal and professional growth.

The salary and benefits are great, but you wouldn’t be developing the knowledge and skills that would qualify you for the next step toward your ultimate job.

When and How to Turn Down a Job Offer

Even though this may not be the right job for you, the company may have other positions that are a better fit. You don’t want to burn any bridges, so take the time to decline politely if you have decided to turn down the job. Here are tips for how to decline a job offer with class:

• When to Turn Down a Job Offer
• How to Turn Down a Job Offer

Having Second Thoughts?

What if you’re already said yes? Here’s what to do if you have changed your mind, and want to decline a job offer after accepting it.

Read More:  Get Hired in 30 Days (or Less) | What to Consider Before Accepting a Job Offer

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/3hitu8N

Read More

Top 12 Do’s and Don’ts for Starting a New Job

Are you about to start a new job? Are you getting the new job jitters? Even though it’s really exciting to be beginning a new phase of your career, it can also be stressful and a little scary to start a new job.

Review these tips for starting a new job, and you’ll be ready for a smooth transition to your new employer.

Plan Your Departure

One way to alleviate some of the stress is to take some time to plan and get organized. If you’re currently employed, give notice to your employer (two weeks is typical), and let your co-workers know that you’re moving on.

Here are tips for resigning gracefully while maintaining a good relationship with your boss and colleagues.

Plan Your Arrival

Plan your arrival at your new workplace as carefully as you did leaving your old job. If you can, schedule a break between jobs. Taking a few days off, or a vacation if you can swing it, is a good way to decompress, relax, and start anew with a refreshed and engaged brain. 

Make a List

Start your planning by making a “to do” list. What do you need to get done before you start work? Take care of any appointments you need to schedule ahead of time. That way, you won’t need to be asking for time off right away.

If you need to figure out transportation, child care, elder care, or anything else you need in place prior to starting work, don’t wait to get it lined up. The more organized you are, the smoother the transition will be.

Also, make a “to do” list for starting your new job. Not doing much other than listening and learning, even though it sounds odd, can be on that list. Taking the time to prepare, will help your first day on the job a successful one.

Listen and Learn

One of the best bosses I ever had told me that whenever he started a new job, he spent the first couple of weeks immersing himself into the organization. He wanted a thorough understanding of how the company, his job, and his team worked before he made any suggestions or shared his input.

Of course, everyone’s job is different, but taking the time to learn as much as you can from everyone you meet at work is excellent advice.

There are other things you can do, as well, to make your first days and weeks on the job a positive, exciting, and fun experience.

12 Do’s and Don’ts for Starting a New Job

Here are 12 suggestions for what you can do, and what you shouldn’t do, that will help you ensure a smooth transition to your new position.

1. Get the facts.

It’s absolutely fine to ask questions ahead of time. Depending on your organization, you can ask the Human Resources representative or your supervisor any questions. If you’re not sure who to ask, check with the person who offered you the job. Find out about your work schedule, the hours per week you are expected to work, salary, benefits, and any information you need to successfully come on board.

2. Figure out what to wear.

What you wore to the job interview may not be what you will wear on the job. If you haven’t been given a dress code, ask what the appropriate attire is for your workplace. Have a few work outfits ready, so you don’t have to scramble finding clothes to wear.

3. Check on the company’s BYOD or BYOC policy.

Some employers have Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) or BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) policies that include tablets and smartphones, as well as computers. You may be expected to use your own laptop, or you may have the option to use it. Here’s information on when a company can require you to use your own technology equipment.

4. Check on the company’s social media policy.

Check out your new employer’s social media policy. Some companies don’t care about employee’s posting on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or other social media sites during working hours. Others have policies that prohibit it. Find out what is acceptable before you start posting.

Take the time to vet your social pages. Some of your new co-workers or even your new boss might want to be your Facebook friend. Make sure what they can view is fit for public consumption. Check your privacy settings and be careful about who gets to see what.

5. Don’t presume you know anything. 

Being humble is worth a lot when you’re starting a new job. Nobody likes a know it all, especially someone who doesn’t really know anything about the job or the organization. As I mentioned, take the time to listen and learn before you start giving advice.

6. Be nice.

Being nice goes a long way, too. People like nice people, and if you’re nice to everyone you’re going to get ahead. Remember that some of the people at the bottom of the pay scale know more about the inner workings of the company than those at the top. That’s why being nice to everyone you meet is important. Here’s how to introduce yourself to your new co-workers.

7. Do arrive a little early.

One easy way to help minimize the stress of starting a new position is to do a trial run before you start the job. Figure out your transportation and where you’re going.  Make the trip a few days ahead of time to see how long it takes, giving yourself a cushion for traffic or other delays. Then give yourself a little extra time so you can arrive at work a few minutes early on your first day.

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice.

There is no such thing as a stupid question when you’re starting a job. Your employer would prefer that you ask. That’s easier than having to fix a mistake. You won’t be expected to know everything, and it’s better to ask for help than to guess.

9. Ask for feedback.

Feedback is especially useful when you’re starting a job. Ask your supervisor how you’re doing, ask if he or she can give you any advice, and ask for suggestions on what you can improve upon.

10. Build relationships.

Relationship building can be hard, especially if you’re the new kid on the block. It can be harder when you don’t have an outgoing personality, and meeting new people is a challenge. Do your best to be friendly and warm, and again, asking for advice is always a good way to break the ice.

11. Be flexible.

Give yourself some extra time to work at the job when you’re first starting it. Leave room in your schedule to come in early or stay late, if necessary. Spending extra time up front can help your learning curve, and increase your comfort level with your new responsibilities.

12. Try not to stress too much. 

Think of your new job as the next exciting step in your career path. Don’t expect to learn everything at once. It’s all new to you, and it will take time. If you feel yourself getting stressed, take a deep breath, collect yourself, and remember that you aren’t expected to get it all at once.

Even though you’re bringing a wealth of skills and experience to the organization, it will still take a little time for it to all fall into place.

More Tips for Starting a New Job

• How to Handle the New Job Jitters
• How to Have a Successful First Day at Work

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/3aPv1AF

Read More

Computer Skills That Will Help You Get Hired

In today’s technologically oriented economy, it’s no surprise that employees with strong computer skills fare better in the job market than their technology challenged counterparts. This trend influences hiring for virtually all jobs, not just technology-centered positions.

If your computer skills aren’t where you’d like them to be, there are many free and low-cost ways to upskill your credentials – and boost your career.

What Computer Skills Do You Need?

If you are in the market for a new job or formulating your professional development plan to position yourself for future career growth, then you should take some time to assess the technology preferences of employers in your field.

Before you start, be aware that there are basic computer and mobile device skills, as well as software skills, that employers may expect you have to have. If you don’t have them, take the time to brush up your skills so you’re a competitive candidate.

What skills do you need? Take the time to do some research to learn about the most in-demand skills for someone with your background and expertise.

How to Generate a List of Skills

• Review job postings for your target position on major job sites like Indeed.com and niche job sites for your industry. Make a list of the tech related qualifications that are cited most often.
• Review workshop and seminar topics offered through your professional association to identify cutting edge skills. 
• Consult colleagues in your field and ask them which skills are the most highly valued in their environment.
• Check LinkedIn to see what skills your connections in similar jobs have on their profiles.

Also review these lists of the top computer skills employers looks for and the top skills to list on LinkedIn to learn what skills employers are seeking in the candidates they hire.

Computer Skills That Will Help You Get Hired

Here are some computer skills that are prized by employers in a wide variety of sectors.

Basic Computer Skills

Skills vary by job, of course, but there are some basic skills that will help you get hired and boost your chances of getting a promotion. The more skills you have to include on your resume, the easier it will be to find your next new job.

• Basic Computer and Mobile Device Skills
• Computer Hardware Skills
• Computer Software Skills

Microsoft Office

Virtually all workers have some familiarity with Microsoft Word. However, individuals who can carry out mail merges, modify macro scripts, format documents expertly, and execute other complex functions are most highly recruited. You can get certified in Microsoft Office, which will enhance your resume and marketing to employers.

• List of Microsoft Office Skills

Spreadsheets

Facility with spreadsheet programs, especially Microsoft Excel, is referenced in many job announcements. Candidates who can create complex macros to organize spreadsheet information are in particularly high demand.

PowerPoint

A solid grasp of PowerPoint for workers who wish to conduct dynamic presentations or prepare materials for bosses and colleagues is essential. Job candidates who can show employers some attractive examples of presentation slides will often have a leg up in the hiring process.

Microsoft Access

Job seekers who can organize and manipulate data through programs like Microsoft Access have an advantage in today’s information-intensive economy.

QuickBooks

Many small businesses (and some larger ones) use QuickBooks for accounting, payroll, invoicing, reporting and more. If you’re working in an accounting or administrative role, a working knowledge of QuickBooks is definitely an asset.

• QuickBooks Skills

Email

We all use email as part of our personal and professional lives, but those individuals who can perform advanced functions with email programs like Microsoft Outlook can increase office productivity.

Web and Social Skills

Most organizations are looking to enhance their footprint on the web and within social media. Workers who can maintain and upgrade websites using tools like content management systems, HTML, Dreamweaver, WordPress and Java are very attractive to employers. Candidates who understand how to leverage social media to convey messages about their organization are in high demand.

• Social Media Skills
• Tech Skills Listed by Job

Graphic and Writing Skills

Knowledge of Photoshop and graphics programs like InDesign and Illustrator enable employees to optimize the look and feel of websites and other communications. Writing skills are also important for many different jobs.

• Graphic Design Skills
• Writing Skills

Enterprise Systems

Most larger employers utilize enterprise systems like Oracle and PeopleSoft as platforms for their operations. Mastering applications within these systems can enhance your appeal to these types of organizations.

Job Specific Skills

There are many skills that are job dependent. Check out this list of employment skills listed by job to ensure you have the top skills employers are seeking in candidates. Highlight those skills in your job applications to show hiring organizations you have the right stuff to get hired.

• Employment Skills Listed by Job

How to Upgrade Your Skills

If your skills need refreshing or you need to acquire a new skill set, there are many free courses online you can take to upgrade your skills. Want to start learning computer skills today? Here are 5 free and easy ways to learn computer skills and boost your marketability.

Be sure to include all the new skills you learn on your resume.

Showcase Your Skills in Your Job Applications

When you’re working on your resume and cover letters, take the time to mention the skills you have that are listed in the job posting. Show the employer that you have the skills the company needs. Here’s how to match your qualifications to a job description. 

Add a Computer Skills Section to Your Resume

An easy way to show employers the computer skills you have is to include them in a separate section at the bottom of your resume. Be sure to focus on the skills you have that are mentioned in the job requirements. For example:

Computer Skills

• Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Analytics
• Adobe Photoshop
• Microsoft Office

More Resume Skills: Employable Computer Skills You Didn’t Know You Had

Write a Skills Section: Here are step-by-step instructions for writing a skills section for your resume.

Review a Sample Resume: Take a look at a sample resume highlighting the candidate’s computer skills.

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/34p2n8o

Read More

5 Free and Easy Ways to Improve Your Computer Skills

With technology becoming more and more prevalent in the workplace, it’s more important than ever to have basic computer hardware and software skills. An employer will be looking for computer skills on your resume, and you need to be able to walk the walk in addition to talk to the talk—meaning that you need to be able to know how to use a computer when you’re on the job.

Here are 5 free and easy way to improve your computer skills.

Short on time? Jump down to see some free courses, so you can start learning for free today!

1. Identify what you need to learn.

Most likely, you only have so much free time that you can dedicate to learning a new skill. Accordingly, it’s important to use that time wisely. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career or level up within your current field, analyzing the job description of your ideal position is a great way to identify what skills employers are looking for, as well as the tools you should know how to use.

Tip: The “Requirements” section of a job description is generally a good place to find this information.

Networking is another great way to discover what technical skills other people in your field have, or what software and apps they use on a day-to-day basis. This can be accomplished with a simple question, such as “Have you learned any new skills lately that have helped you in your job?,” or “What’s your favorite software or app that use regularly for work?”

In addition, you can also find much of this information online. If you are a customer service representative, for example, you might search for “customer service software.” Keep an eye out for the specific products that appear in your results. Capterra, a software review company, is another helpful resource for identifying common tools in your trade.

Not sure where to start? The specific skills you need are highly dependent on your position and your field, but you can familiarize yourself with this list of top computer skills to start out. Also review some of the best skills to include on your resume.

2. Start with the basics—and ensure you know how to use a computer.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of how to use a computer—ideally, both a Windows or Mac. There are many free resources online. Sites like Lifewire, for example, are very helpful in providing comprehensive tutorials.

These days, it’s pretty common to find free (or affordable) computer training events. Check with your local library, community center or community college to see what they have to offer. In addition, you can take free Mac courses at an Apple store near you.

If you’re working in an office role, consider getting certified in Microsoft Office to improve your skills and add value to your resume.

3. Familiarize yourself with an understanding of how computers (and the Internet) work.

While this goes without saying, before you learn any specialized technical skills, at the very least you need a fundamental understanding of what a computer it is and how it works. In some cases, it can be helpful to learn how the Internet works, too.

Now, do you need master computer science? Absolutely not. But, having an elementary understanding of how the technology that you use functions provides a strong foundation for future learning. Here is a list of some free online computer skills lessons that you can start with:

• Computer Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Internet Basics for Absolute Beginners – from GCF Learn Free (Free)
• Computer Science 101 – from Stanford University  (Free)
• How the Internet Works – from Khan Academy (Free)
• G Suite Training Center (for Google Apps) – from Google (Free)

4. Take a free online or-in person computer course.

There are many free resources available, both offline and online. Be sure to check out offerings in your community, such as at your local library, community center, community college or YMCA. You can also search on sites like Meetup or Eventbrite for educational events or groups. If you live in Los Angeles, New York City or Chicago, CourseHorse is another excellent resource.

If you’d rather learn tech skills for free online, there are plenty of ways to do so! You should be able to search on YouTube for pretty much anything you want to know. If you’re looking for a more formal learning experience, you can find tons of free college-level courses online on sites like Coursera, EdX and Class-Central. You can also find free, introductory courses on sites like Khan Academy, Codecademy, and Free Code Camp.

Tip: Here’s an extensive list of free and low-cost online computer classes you can take to get started.

5. Apply the knowledge and get hands-on practice.

If a job description requests familiarity with a specific tool, try to see if there’s way to get hands-on experience. For example, say a position requires that you know how to use Trello, a project management tool. You could consider ways you might be able to integrate Trello in your current position. If this is not possible, perhaps there’s a case where you could use it in your personal life—like for planning a trip.

Get as creative as possible. Need to learn how to use Google Calendar? Start using it to plan and schedule your families’ appointments and activities. Need to know how to use Skype? Create an account and use it to make a video call with someone you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Alternately, if you are learning a skill like graphic design, web design or development, there are many ways to practice: you can enter contests on 99Designs, or solicit gigs on Fiverr, for example.

If you need to be familiar with a paid tool or software then you cannot gain access to, look to see if that app offers a demo or has any training videos on its website. At the very least, you’ll have a chance to garner a basic familiarity with the structure and functionality of the software

Remember, you should always be honest with an employer about your skills and abilities. Don’t oversell your skills. If you’re lacking a skill that is listed in the job description, you can always mention that it is something you are currently learning (or intend to learn), and emphasize your ability to pick up new skills quickly.

Bonus tip: Does your company offer an education stipend?

Be sure to check if your company offers any stipends for their employees’ professional development. There are a lot of high-quality online learning programs available for relatively low costs – Lynda, for example, is a great option for only $24.99/month, as is ed2go.

Suggested Articles:

• Computer Skills That Will Get You Hired
• Free Career and Job Search Tools

•  
• 

from Career Tool Belt https://ift.tt/2Yrsbgx

Read More