There was a time (not that long ago) when businesses needed typists. Word processing eliminated most of them. Change was difficult for some, but welcome by those who survived.

We are about to enter another time when much will change. Bosses will realize that some of their employees are not really needed. They will also realize that many jobs can be done at home and as much office space will not be needed. Instead of traveling to meet customers/clients, Zoom may be enough.

It may be a good time to consider what you can offer when this terrible time is over. New skills may put you ahead…or leave you behind. Consider these skills for the future:

PowerPoint has been an office staple for decades. Speaking online has shown that that may not be enough. When this is over it may be a very good idea to find your local Toastmasters club and develop your public speaking skills.

PhotoShop is difficult to learn. Actually, very difficult. And that is the very reason you should learn to use it. Knowing what others do not know has always been an advantage. Now, even more so.

Although learning Microsoft Word is important, mastering Adobe’s InDesign will give you skills in designing documents, not just writing them.

Finally, your high school English teacher taught you how to write compositions and essays. She did not teach you to be a copywriter. Instead of paragraphs, copywriters using one or two sentences at a time. It’s different.

Be ready for the next phase of life/business…before it’s too late.