Computer Training for Baby Boomers
The Baby Boomer generation is an important one. Those of us who were born between the years 1946 and 1964 are referred to as the “Baby Boomer” generation. We’re nearly 80 million in number. That’s no small figure; the Baby Boomer generation is most definitely an important part of our society.
Unfortunately, many younger people believe that this generation has an aversion to newer technologies and advanced gadgetry. This may be true of some but many older people are expert users of technology. Sadly this myth can cause ageist bias against them being interviewed for a job they want.
If you can’t use a computer confidently it can be challenging to navigate many aspects of life. Therefore it is important to access computer training. There are so many things that you can’t do effectively without some computer skills. Even applying for a new Medicare card becomes an issue without basic computer skills.
Public libraries in most areas provide computer training, as does U3A and other community groups.
Five reasons why computer training is important for Baby Boomers
1. You’ll be able to look for work.
Computer skills are a requirement for a lot of jobs. But understanding how to use a computer will help you to actually look for more of those jobs in the first place. Everything is on the Internet these days including job postings. Many businesses won’t even list their job offerings in print. They simply post them on their own website or on a general job site. Consequently there are so many resources that are designed to help you find the specific job you’re looking for, and they can do so with a startling amount of efficiency. They’re all online, though, so you’re going to have to be familiar with a computer to use them.
2. You can connect with news and information more readily.
Since we’re moving faster and faster into the Digital Age, everything is online. This includes a world of information. So when you can learn how to use the computer you’re going to be able to have a much easier time accessing information when you need it. News, information, media, movies, television — anything you can imagine is online. You’ll have access to a lot of what’s going on in the world if you can gain confidence in your skills through computer training.
3. You’ll be able to stay in touch with family and friends.
Sometimes social networks online get bad publicity. But they are a wonderful way to communicate with family and friends, to find long lost friends, and to be part of online communities that share common interests. With your new computer skills, you’ll be able to email and reconnect with people you might not have seen in years.
4. You’re more employable.
Once you’ve learned all about how to use the computer and you’ve gone online to find those excellent job listings, your computer skills will undoubtedly give you a leg up when you’re actually sitting in that interview. If you’ve got great computer skills, your potential employers will be a lot more likely to consider hiring you. You won’t have given them a reason to ignore your experience because of poor computer skills. Having good qualifications and experience isn’t really enough, anymore. Just about every job is going to find you working with a computer in one way or another these days, so it’s pretty important that you are comfortable with up to date technology.
5. You can greatly simplify your life.
Clearly, there are a lot of practical and personal reasons why computer skills can improve your life. A computer is great for organizing yourself and making things easier in so many ways. For instance, you could start by organizing all your photos! Digital photos and files don’t have to take up much space and can be searched through with incredible ease and efficiency. When you know how to use a computer, there’s literally no limit to the ways that you can use it to improve your life.
Read our tips on How Baby Boomers Can Create Extra Retirement Income
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