Need Direction Back into the Workplace...

Hi K.!

I would definitely take classes in Excel, Word, PowerPoint and maybe a class in either Outlook or Lotus Notes.

I hope this helps.

Good luck!

I don't have any advice as I'm in the same boat. But, this website may be helpful.

www.lifemeetswork.com

Info on flexible work schedules, returning to work, etc.

Good luck,
A.

Microsoft Word and Excel are a must. Outlook (for email, appointments, etc), Power Point (presentations) and being able to get around the internet. There are classes at Community Colleges that will get you into the programs. Since you have run your own business, I would think that you could get into an accounting position pretty easily. Quickbooks is great to know for that and isn't that hard to learn, I taught myself actually.

Sign-up with a temp agency...It gets your feet wet about work. I had the best experience temping! Doesn't pay a lot but it does give you the experience to move back into the work force.

One thing you might try is calling a temp agency and ask what they are looking for in one of there office temp. employees.

Good Luck, S.

I think taking intro classes to computer programs is a GREAT idea, because they will pace you and give you exercises to practice.

I know that some professional office administration jobs want experience with the software, and some require "advanced knowledge"---I have to say that it is VERY HARD to get proficient or be "competent" with the software ON YOUR OWN. You need real life documents to work on. Also, just taking classes cannot give you advanced knowledge---that really comes down to using the software regularly, troubleshooting to find the short cuts, and problem solving on actual documents and spreadsheets to see how the program formats etc.

I just throw that in as "heads up" in that it is good to practice at home, read manuals, and take a class. THEN get a job that will help train you further for the experience gained vs. trying to land a job that asks for proficiency.

Just talking from my experience. It doesn't take long to get the hang of things, just consistency. Good luck!

The basics are word, excel, powerpoint, outlook, typing skills (I think you will want to type at least 50 words per minute or more depending on the job). I think just about every office uses these programs. They rest probably depends on the type of business. I would try to get advanced knowledge of word and intermediate for excel. Obviously, you want the most knowledge you can get but I think the emphasis would be on word first.

You might want to get started through a temp agency so you can see what different work is out there without committing to any one job right away. It's also a great way to pick up a variety of skills.

When you go to the agencies they will give you a test in all the software to see what level you are at. That might be a good way for you to see how advanced you are and how much training you need. And the agency will be honest with you too. If they think you aren't qualified for the jobs they place people in, they will let you know.

I am a legal secretary but have also worked in accounting and marketing and never had any formal computer training. I have just picked up the knowledge with each job.

It takes a lot of courage to do what you are doing! Kudos to you for trying. Good luck on your search.

There are jobs out there that do not require computer skills if you wanted to try something different. Just a thought :)