Peeves, Pitfalls and Pickles: Part 1
© Douglas E. Welch 1997
After spending 15 years working with and supporting computers
I have developed a few pet peeves about working in the high-tech
arena. These peeves range from simple annoyances to stereotyping
and even harassment. We are all guilty of some little indignities
in the office and my hope is that by pointing them out we might
all be a little easier to live with.
What you need to know
A common pitfall among people who use computers extensively is
that of exclusion. They often learn one or two programs extremely
well but are lacking in the simple computer basics that can make
them more productive. These people can create beautiful graphics
and page layouts but often they don't know how to copy a file
from the hard drive to a floppy disk. Whenever they need some
basic assistance they end up calling the local support person
for help.
You might think this is an appropriate division of labor but in,
in reality, it is productivity drain on both the user and the
support department. How long will the user wait before someone
can address their problem? This is all lost time.
Don't allow yourself to fall into this trap. There are some basic
operations that every computer user, from the youngest beginner
to the oldest expert, should know. These include a basic understanding
of the operating system, including how to copy files, selecting
a printer, printing and archiving data.
Poor computer skills could be reflected in performance reviews
even though you might be quite adept at running specific programs.
Don't let this happen to you. A computer is your tool, as much
as a hammer is a carpenters tool. While a computer is infinitely
more complex, it is important that you know its basic operation
and application. This knowledge will make sure that you aren't
trying to do the computer equivalent of driving a screw with a
hammer.
Specialization
Just like programmers, creative and craft professionals cannot
afford to be too specific when it comes to the hardware and software
they use. While we all have our specialties it is important to
always be investigating the newest tools from the computer industry.
This insures that when an important new tool is released you can
begin to use it immediately.
An overall knowledge of the tools available will help to insure
that you are always employable. Not every company uses the same
hardware or software. If you ever have to leave your current job
you may need to use software outside your specialization. An awareness
and basic knowledge of this software can certainly help you succeed.
It is important to remember that in today's business world, even
those people who don't support computers or write programs still
need to know the basics. Every workman should know their tool
intimately and computers are no exception.
Douglas E. Welch is a freelance writer and computer consultant
in Van Nuys, California. Readers can discuss career issues with
other readers by joining the Career Opportunities Discussion on
Douglas' web page at: http://home.earthlink.net/~dewelch/
He can reached via email at dewelch@earthlink.net |