I struggle with this one particularly because of the modern world. There's several layers to peel back on this onion, so let's take a look at them:
> That colleague who insecurely asks a (somewhat naive) question about IT does not deserve to be treated rudely, just like you yourself would not like to be treated rudely when you had a (to them: naive) question to legal or HR.
What did the colleague do before making their way to my desk or Teams / Slack / Chime / Whatever chat?
Did they search this in their search engine of choice? Did they break out their manual - digital or print - and thumb / arrow key through it? Did they use the "Find" feature in their PDF program?
If someone comes to me and says, "Hey, cbozeman, I have a question about <insert thing here>... I tried searching for the answer, but I didn't find anything really useful, and I couldn't find what I needed in the manual..."
If you do that, you will have my undivided attention for as long as it takes to resolve your issue or answer your question.
If, however, you did like one of our interns who emailed me saying, "I need access to \\OurServer\Training Committee. Big Boss says I have to watch training videos."
"You aren't authorized to have access to that directory - it's even in the name - it's for the Training Committee only."
"You're holding up my training, this is important, I have to do this!"
"You can go to him and tell him that I told you, I'm not giving you access to that directory, you're not a member of the Training Committee and it's for their use only."
Fast forward to later in the day and Big Boss swings by my office to let me know that Intern actually meant \\OurServer\Firm\Training Materials\Intern Training Videos. I asked him, "How do you know that?"
"Because that's the UPN that I emailed to her in her onboarding email."
"So she can't read?"
"She can't read..."
"Well, could be worse, at least she knows how to use File Explorer to even try to input the file path..."
"Laughs."
Yes, I will be rude to you if you are lazy and don't read. I will be rude to you if you do not care and do not want to learn. Every single person we hire - Hell, every single person every Fortune 500 company hires - must have "Basic" Computer Skills. It's right there in the job description for any job that sits in front of a computer. Basic Computer Skills. And just so I didn't lose my mind, I wrote an email to my old professor at my alma mater, and I asked him - after some pleasantries and asking how he was doing, "If you had to break down what entails "basic computer skills" in the year 2023, what would that look like?"
Here is his response:
"Hi cbozeman,
I'm glad you're doing well in your life and career... yadda yadda blah blah...
Here is PDF of a page of my newest introductory textbook that we use in IT and BIS courses regarding, "Basic Computer Skills". Hopefully this is instructive."
It was. Here is his list of what constitutes, "Basic Computer Skills":
When companies mention "Basic Computing Skills" in job descriptions or requirements, they typically refer to a set of foundational skills in using computers that are considered essential for most office or administrative roles. These skills usually include:
1. Proficiency in Operating Systems: Basic knowledge of operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux. This includes understanding how to start and shut down a computer, use the desktop interface, open and close applications, and manage files and folders.
2. Word Processing Skills: Ability to use word processing software like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. This includes creating, editing, formatting, and printing documents.
3. Spreadsheet Skills: Familiarity with spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Skills might include creating and editing spreadsheets, using basic formulas, and understanding how to sort and filter data.
4. Email Communication: Ability to use email platforms like Outlook or Gmail. This includes composing, sending, and organizing emails, as well as understanding email etiquette.
5. Internet Navigation and Research: Competence in using a web browser, navigating websites, and using search engines effectively to find information.
6. Basic Understanding of Computer Hardware: Understanding the basic components of a computer, such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer.
7. Data Entry: Ability to enter data into various systems or databases accurately and efficiently.
8. Understanding of Basic Security Practices: Knowledge of basic cybersecurity practices such as creating strong passwords and identifying common online threats like phishing.
9. Use of Collaboration Tools: Familiarity with collaboration and communication tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom, especially relevant in remote or hybrid work environments.
10. Presentation Software: Basic skills in creating presentations using software like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides.
These skills are considered basic because they are often necessary for efficiently performing a wide range of tasks in the modern workplace, regardless of the specific job role.