UCQ University Centre Quayside

Head Office

0333 0048 470

Email:

enquiries@ucq.ac.uk

Student Portal
UCQ University Centre Quayside

Digital Skills

Introduction

Alumni: Higher Education

Career Development Skills

– Job Search and Skills

– Writing A CV

– Writing A Cover Letter

– Interview Skills

– Santander Academy: Free courses

Career Information Advice And Guidance

Digital Skills

Using Linkedin

Volunteering Opportunities

What are Digital Skills?

In today’s job market, understanding digital technology is essential. Developing your digital skills to an intermediate or advanced level can significantly expand your career opportunities. Digital skills encompass a wide range of activities, including:

  • Using Devices: How to use a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or personal computer to access the internet.
  • Online Communication: Using email and social media sites to communicate online.
  • Remote Work Tools: Utilising online tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime to work from home.
  • Online Services: Creating online accounts to access services and purchase goods.
  • Information Search: Using internet search engines to search for reliable information, remember to cross-check for accuracy.
  • Online Safety and Legal Behaviour: Behaving safely and legally online.  Click here to read UCQ’s Safe Use of IT Policy
  • Software Proficiency: Using a range of programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint to enhance your skills and employability.
  • Customer Interaction: Interacting with customers from company social media accounts including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

More advanced digital skills include:

  • Web Development: Coding a website.
  • Graphic Design: Using Photoshop, Publisher or other advanced software.
  • Digital Marketing: Marketing on social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, Tiktok and Twitter.

The Drive to go Digital

Digital skills not only help in maintaining connections with family and friends but also significantly enhance your employment prospects, helping you secure employment or progress within the workplace. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of digital skills:

  • Enhanced Job Prospects: The more confident you are with digital skills, the better your chances of securing, retaining a job and/or progressing within workplace.
  • Access to Information and Services: Improved digital skills give you better access to information, advice, and services, including job/recruitment agencies, Government and financial services, NHS accounts, and other online services.
  • Career Advancement: Digital proficiency makes learning, training, and career opportunities more accessible.
  • Economic Impact: Over half of all CEOs find it challenging to find candidates with advanced digital skills. Roles requiring digital skills pay 29% more than those that don’t.
  • Market Demand: In the UK, at least 82% of online job advertisements list digital skills as a requirement. To boost the UK economy by £12 billion, 750,000 more people with digital skills are needed.

Free Courses to Improve Your Digital Skills

UCQ offer digital skills training in the North East and Tees Valley.  Click HERE to find out further information. If you are out of area, below are some free, self-paced courses that can help you improve your digital skills. These courses can easily fit around your schedule:

By undertaking these courses and developing your digital skills, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern job market and advance your career.