What is digital literacy?
Digital literacy is the ability to effectively navigate, adopt, and utilize various digital technologies. It goes beyond using new tools; it involves equipping employees with the skills necessary to innovate, communicate and succeed in a technology-driven workplace. Embracing digital literacy is fundamental to modern business operations, promoting the development of new skills and etiquette and fostering a willingness to learn.
Digital literacy integrates a variety of skills and competencies, including:
- understanding how to use computers, smartphones and other digital devices
- knowing how to search for information online, evaluate the credibility of sources, and use web browsers and search engines effectively
- using digital tools such as project management software, video conferencing platforms and collaborative apps to streamline workflows and enhance teamwork
- organizing, storing and retrieving digital information efficiently
- protecting personal and organizational information and avoiding cyber threats
- using digital technologies responsibly to solve problems and make informed decisions.
Digital literacy in a competitive job market
The job market is more competitive, globally connected and technologically engaged than ever, and millions of young Canadians will join a workforce that is very different from what we know today in the coming decade. Digital transformation will impact everything from human resources to job automation.
Rapid technological advancements will also require job seekers to be flexible and prepared for frequent changes in career paths in a digital-first global economy. Companies with strong digital leadership that understand the strengths and benefits of different technologies will be better positioned for success.
Improving digital literacy
Employers, educators and government can start by training and reskilling the workforce with transferable skills and a desire for lifelong learning to help prepare them to successfully navigate and shape their future. Workers with these transferable digital skills will be equipped to thrive in the modern world.
The Government of Canada offers a digital competencies framework for team and personal development. It includes digital literacy, continuous improvement, information and data stewardship, digital responsibility, cybersecurity vigilance and inclusive interactions.
It’s a lifelong learning process that begins with a willingness to explore and use new or unfamiliar digital tools and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence tools, open-source software, robotics and augmented reality. Embedding digital skills training into your workplace culture can cultivate a team that’s adaptable and ready to innovate as technologies evolve.
Fostering digital literacy in the workplace
Fostering digital literacy in the workplace is crucial for your businesses to succeed. It’s no longer a nice-to-have skill for employees; it’s a necessity. By investing in digital literacy training, employers can unlock numerous benefits. Here are six benefits:
Increased productivity and efficiency
Employees who are digitally literate can utilize technology more effectively, unite teams for maximum productivity and optimize workflows. Those skilled in automation tools can minimize repetitive tasks, save time and focus on high-value activities. A workforce with strong digital skills supports remote work, enhancing flexibility, productivity and work-life balance for employees. Additionally, employees with robust digital skills can analyze data, identify trends and make informed decisions.
Enhanced innovation and creativity
A workforce with improved digital literacy is more likely to embrace innovation and actively contribute to developing new products, services and processes. Employees can access information and resources online, which fuels innovation and creativity. Digital tools also promote collaboration, generating innovative ideas and solutions for effectively marketing products and services online, thereby reaching a wider audience.
Improved communication and collaboration
Digital literacy can help organizations improve workplace communication skills using various digital channels, fostering collaboration and reducing misunderstandings. Digital tools such as email, instant messaging and video conferencing facilitate seamless communication, enabling employees to work effectively with colleagues in different locations. This ultimately improves knowledge sharing and teamwork.
Cybersecurity and data protection
Understanding cybersecurity best practices is essential to protect organizations from cyber threats and data breaches. Digitally literate employees can identify cybersecurity risks, mitigate potential threats, safeguard sensitive company and customer data, and ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
Adaptability
As technology advances, digitally literate employees can quickly adapt to new tools and platforms, ensuring the organization remains competitive. Investing in digital literacy helps employers future-proof their workforce and stay ahead of the competition.
Customer engagement
Employees skilled in using digital tools can more effectively engage with customers through social media, email and other online platforms. This enhances customer loyalty and satisfaction. By personalizing customer experiences based on individual preferences and improving customer service across various channels, employees can leverage data-driven insights to identify trends and further enhance customer satisfaction.
Training and development
Employers who invest in digital skills training and development can gain a competitive advantage, enhance efficiency and foster innovation. Creating an effective training and development program can provide continuing education through workshops, online courses, tutorials and practical experiences. It may also include mentorship to speed up skill development and incentivize learning by incorporating digital skills into performance evaluations. This approach helps individuals acquire new digital skills.
Recruiting, hiring, and upskilling employees for digital literacy is crucial. Giving them access to the latest technology and software tools can create a more agile, efficient and secure organization that is better prepared to address the challenges of today’s business environment.
Indeed supports the digital hiring process with recruitment, candidate evaluation and hiring strategies to help your company grow in a competitive and connected job market.
