I've been out of the workforce for about 10 years, focusing on raising my child while my ex-partner worked elsewhere. Now that I'm divorced and ready to jump back into a clerical office role or public service, I'm feeling a bit lost. I had a background in property management and a BA in Journalism, but technology has changed a lot in the past decade. Can anyone share insights on what's new in office software and hardware? Also, how do I address my employment gap on job applications and where can I find quick refreshers on office computing skills? Thanks for any guidance!
5 Answers
I can relate! After taking time off, just be honest on your resume. Instead of hiding your gap, highlight your experiences like managing a home and caring for kids. You could even list it as 'professional development' or something similar. Here's an idea to present your stay-at-home experience: 'Managed daily operations and planned activities.' It shows your skills in organization and multitasking!
Just remember, it’s all about adapting. While there are new tech tools, the core of clerical work hasn't changed much. Knowing how to schedule meetings, manage emails, and work with basic documents will get you through just fine. And honestly, feel free to use online resources or templates to help you get back into the swing of things!
I recommend starting with a class at your local community college focused on business software. You'll get a crash course on essential tools. For example, SmartSheets are great for collaborative work where updates happen in real time. Plus, familiarize yourself with apps like Teams and Slack for communication, and Zoom for video calls. Those are pretty much the staples now!
Totally agree! Those tools are crucial for office work now, and a basic understanding of them will get you far.
As for learning the basics, I suggest looking up tutorials on programs like Excel and PowerPoint, and get comfortable with keyboard shortcuts. It only takes a bit of practice, but it can really boost your confidence once you’re back doing clerical work. Also, maybe dress a little better than average when you start—just a simple upgrade can really make a difference in how you feel.
Don't stress too much about cloud computing if you're looking into clerical roles. 'Cloud' generally just refers to online storage accessible through the internet. You'll likely be saving and sharing documents in this way, but it’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it!
While that could work, I'd advise keeping it professional—quirky resumes might not impress everyone. Just stick to the facts!