Think digital skills are only for the tech-savvy or people born after 1995? Think again. Whether you're reentering the workforce, growing your side hustle, or just tired of asking someone else to “fix the Wi-Fi,” there’s a place for you in the digital world. And no, you do not need to know how to code or build websites to get started.
Today’s most useful tech skills are surprisingly approachable—and incredibly helpful for both everyday life and your career. According to the National Skills Coalition, 92% of jobs now require digital skills, but nearly one-third of workers have low or no digital proficiency. That means if you’re reentering the workforce or switching careers, leveling up your digital know-how is a powerful move. You can absolutely join the growing number of professionals making meaningful career strides.
If you’re ready to restart your professional journey, check out this guide to restarting your career for practical, step‑by‑step advice.
11 Digital Skills Anyone Can Learn
Here are 11 digital skills you can learn right now, even if you do not consider yourself “good with technology.”
1. Email Etiquette
You likely use email all the time—but are you using it well? Many people never learn the basics of professional communication via email. Knowing how to write a subject line that gets attention, when to CC versus BCC, and how to write clearly without being too formal or too casual is a skill that will serve you in nearly any job. Plus, mastering simple things like formatting, adding attachments properly, and knowing when to hit “Reply All” (or more importantly, when not to) can save you from embarrassing or confusing email threads.
Take this course: Email Etiquette: Professionally Write Business Emails
Email is still one of the most common tools in the workplace—but using it well takes more than just hitting send. From subject lines to tone and formatting, writing a clear, professional message can shape how others see you. If you want step-by-step guidance on writing effective business emails, this Email Etiquette course teaches you exactly how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
2. Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
Google’s free productivity tools are used in offices, schools, and businesses all over the world. Google Docs is a simple, cloud-based word processor that is great for resumes, reports, and notes. Google Sheets is their version of Excel, ideal for simple lists or calculations, and Google Slides lets you make professional presentations quickly. The best part? Everything autosaves, and you can share documents with others and work on them together—no more “Final_Draft_v3_REAL_FINAL” file names.
Take this course: Introduction To Google Docs - Increase Your Productivity
If you're new to Google Docs or want to get more comfortable with its features, this course is a great starting point. It walks you through everything from creating and formatting documents to sharing and collaborating in real time. Perfect for beginners, it helps you build confidence using one of the most widely used digital tools today.
3. Canva
Canva makes graphic design accessible to everyone. You can create everything from social media posts to posters, resumes, flyers, and even pitch decks using drag-and-drop templates. If you have ever felt frustrated trying to make something look good in Microsoft Word or PowerPoint, Canva is the answer. It helps you create beautiful designs without needing any technical design skills. Once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself designing things just for fun.
Take this course: Canva Graphic Design Masterclass
If you're looking to elevate your visual skills—whether for a résumé, social post, or presentation—this Canva Graphic Design course is the perfect starting point. It guides you through using its intuitive drag‑and‑drop tools, templates, and design principles, even if you’ve never done graphic work before. By the end, you'll be confidently creating eye‑catching visuals that look polished and professional.
4. Basic Excel Skills
Spreadsheets are not just for accountants. Learning how to use Excel to track your budget, organize project tasks, or even plan a vacation can save time and give you more control over your information. You do not need to know complex formulas—just learning how to enter and format data, use autofill, and apply basic functions like SUM or AVERAGE will get you far. If you want to stand out to an employer or just stay organized in daily life, Excel is worth learning.
Take this course: Learn Simple But Powerful Excel Functions
If you're just getting started with Excel, this course is a great way to learn the basics. You'll explore simple functions like working with dates, generating random numbers, and using the RANDARRAY function. It is perfect for beginners who want a clear, hands-on introduction to Excel formulas.
5. File and Folder Management
If your desktop is covered in untitled documents and old downloads, this one’s for you. Learning how to create folders, rename files clearly, back up important documents, and use cloud storage services like Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox makes it easier to find what you need, when you need it. It is a simple skill, but it makes a huge difference in both personal and professional productivity.
Take this course: Microsoft OneDrive Crash Course
If you're ready to keep your files organized, secure, and accessible across all your devices, this Microsoft OneDrive course is a fantastic choice. It walks you through everything—from syncing and sharing documents to managing storage effectively and collaborating with others. By the end, you'll confidently navigate OneDrive like a pro, making your digital life smoother and more efficient.
6. Video Conferencing (Zoom, Google Meet)
Love it or hate it, virtual meetings are here to stay. Knowing how to join a Zoom call, adjust your microphone and camera, share your screen, and troubleshoot basic issues helps you feel confident in both work and personal settings. Whether it is a job interview, a virtual doctor’s appointment, or a family catch-up, learning to use these tools well can eliminate stress and awkward moments.
Take this course: Master Video Conferencing In Zoom
If you're ready to lead virtual meetings without the usual "Can you hear me?" moments, this Master Conferencing with Zoom course is a game-changer. It guides you through every feature—from joining and hosting calls to managing participants, screen sharing, and security settings. By the end, you'll navigate Zoom confidently and professionally in any online meeting.
7. Social Media Basics
You do not have to be an influencer to benefit from social media. Whether you want to connect with old friends on Facebook, build a network on LinkedIn, or share your hobbies on Instagram, understanding how social platforms work can help you stay informed and connected. It also helps to know how to adjust your privacy settings, avoid scams, and recognize credible information when you see it. If you own a business or are looking for a job, basic social media knowledge can also boost your visibility.
Take this course: Thrive In Social Media Interactions
If you're looking to boost your confidence online and interact more effectively on social media, the Social Media Interactions course is an ideal choice. It walks you through crafting engaging posts, responding thoughtfully to comments, and maintaining a professional tone across platforms. By the end, you'll feel empowered to build your network and share your ideas with clarity and authenticity.
8. Internet Safety and Passwords
Staying safe online is not just about installing antivirus software. It is about knowing how to create strong, unique passwords, using password managers, recognizing phishing scams, and setting up two-factor authentication when available. These habits protect your personal information and give you peace of mind, especially as more of life—banking, healthcare, communication—moves online.
Take this course: Introduction To Cybersecurity
In this Intro to Cybersecurity course, learn how to protect your personal data and browse the internet safely. Understand phishing, strong passwords, and two-factor authentication. Stay cyber safe and secure in your digital life.
9. Online Calendars (Google Calendar)
If you have ever missed an appointment or double-booked your day, an online calendar can help. Google Calendar is simple, free, and works on any device. You can set reminders, create repeating events, and even share your schedule with others. It is great for staying on top of personal routines, meetings, deadlines, or even planning family events.
10. Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts might seem like a small thing, but they can save you time and make you feel much more in control. Learning common ones like copy (Ctrl + C), paste (Ctrl + V), undo (Ctrl + Z), and switch window (Alt + Tab) makes everyday computer use smoother. Once you get used to these shortcuts, they become second nature—and you will wonder how you ever worked without them.
11. Digital Note-Taking
Physical notebooks are great, but digital note-taking apps like Notion, OneNote, or Evernote help you stay organized across devices. Whether you are jotting down ideas, making a grocery list, writing a journal, or saving links for later, digital notes can be categorized, searched, and updated easily. You can even attach images, checklists, and links to keep everything in one place. It is a simple habit that makes a big difference in keeping your thoughts and tasks manageable.
Take this course: The Complete Evernote Mastery Course: Maximize Productivity
If you're ready to take your organization game to the next level, the Evernote Mastery course is a fantastic starting point. It teaches you how to create structured notebooks, capture ideas with notes and images, and search your content like a digital detective. By the end, you'll be in full control of your ideas and information—easily accessible, organized, and ready whenever you need it.
Tools That Make Learning Easier
If you are ready to try some of these skills but want extra guidance, a few beginner-friendly platforms are designed to help you build digital confidence at your own pace.
- Datacamp is ideal for absolute beginners who want to explore spreadsheets, dashboards, and other data skills without pressure. It breaks concepts down into short, interactive lessons that make numbers less intimidating.
- Designlab is perfect if you are interested in creative tech. It offers hands-on learning in user experience (UX), design thinking, and digital design. It is not about being an artist—it is about learning how to use design tools and solve problems visually.
- Notion is more than just a note-taking app—it is a flexible digital workspace where you can manage projects, to-do lists, goals, or even a personal journal. It has a bit of a learning curve, but it becomes incredibly useful once you get the hang of it.
- Xero is a beginner-friendly finance tool that teaches you the basics of accounting and money management. If you run a small business or just want to learn how to handle your finances better, it is a great place to start.
- Sellfy helps creators—writers, artists, hobbyists—build a simple online store to sell digital products, printables, or merchandise. You do not need to know how to build a website; it handles the setup so you can focus on your content.
Key Takeaways
There is no finish line when it comes to digital skills. New tools and platforms will always emerge—but the basics stay the same. Once you feel confident with one or two tools, it gets easier to try the next one. The most important step is simply starting.
So what will you try first? Writing clearer emails? Making your first design in Canva? Cleaning up your desktop? Wherever you begin, just remember: you are not behind—you are building momentum.
If you want a simple way to keep learning without the hassle of paying for each course, the Skill Success All Access Pass gives you unlimited access to every course in this guide and thousands more to explore at your own pace.
