How Can I Update My Computer Skills After Being a SAHM?

Hi F.,
Are you talking about programs like MS Office, etc.? You might check your library as they often have no/low cost computer classes.
And depending on the type of work you're looking for, computer skills ARE very important! In my field, (marketing, design, adv) the programs ARE important and it is essential that employees are very proficient at the programs needed to function in their job. In my case it's InDesign, Photpshop, Adobe Illustrator, etc. There is no "on the job" training!
So, since you know what programs you'd like to learn, google "program + tutorials" and you should get some results for the overall basics.
And like I said...definitely check out your local and larger public libraries!

Look into your local library!! Our library offers all kinds of free computer classes.

You could enroll in an adult education class, these are often very reasonably priced.

Check at the library, there are often free classes, or volunteers who will assist you. Or check out a book and learn on your own.

Try some of the tutorials on this website
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/support/training-FX1017...

I'm in the same boat....it's time to brush up on my office skills!

Our local community college offers some great online classes. Check with your local schools.....

Good Luck!

If you don't want to go to a community college, get some "for dummies" books.

I know my kcal library offers free Computer training classes you should check your local library and see what they have to offer.
Good luck!

One of the best things you can do is putting ANYTHING on the top of your resume that has a date that says to present. For example, you can write something like home maker or book keeper (for your husband's business) whatever 2008 - present. It will catch a recruiter's eye and hold it for a moment. Long enough to scan down your resume.

Also, check your local community for inexpensive classes and also googole free online computer classes.

Good luck!

Do you have state sponsored Work Force Centers in your state? We have them here in each county and they are a good resource for finding free or low-cost basic training. Or, you could check with your local library, or community college. And, I just Googled "excel training online" and immediately found several options.

I'm curious. You say you are not getting interviews. What makes you think that it is your computer skills that are preventing you from being interviewed?

We have Community Education classes here that teach computer skills at many levels starting at the basics. They are usually held in the evening 1 or 2 nights a week for a few weeks. Most of them cost a very small amount and sometimes the classes are free.

Keep in mind most employers are not looking for too much in computer skills. Most will have set programs where all you do is fill in the spaces. But they are looking for typing speed and accuracy! There are free tutorials on line that will help you with that. They give you a paragraph to type then check it for accuracy and let you now how long it took you to type it. Do a google search for free typing tutorials and see what you come up with.

I don't know about online classes or free classes, but your community probably offers adult education courses which are typically not too pricey. Community colleges may also offer these courses for a reasonable price. If you sign with an employment agency, they may offer free training. Good luck!

Superficial computer skills are the last thing employers look for are you sure that is why you aren't getting interviews.

What I mean is the keyboard hasn't changed and typing is the only skill needed for general office work since every company uses different programs. Like in my office I am the only one who knows the full functions of excel, access and word even though it is used in the office. If they need help they call me. Heck last year we hired a chick that didn't know how to type but that ended up being a huge! mistake. :(

We have lots of adult ed courses in our area, everything from basic word processing to Power Point. And, you get a certificate of completion at the end from an actual instructor who can assist you and answer your questions.
It's definitely worth checking into.

Best wishes.