Why digital skills matter
Today, most job searches and many jobs involve a phone or computer. You may apply online, attend a video interview, fill in digital forms or use software at work. You do not need to be an expert, but a few basic skills make a big difference.
Use your smartphone confidently
Learn to install and update apps from official app stores, manage storage and use your camera to scan documents clearly. Keep your phone locked with a PIN or fingerprint.
- Create a professional email address based on your name.
- Learn to write a short, polite email, attach your CV as a PDF and send it.
- When you are applying for jobs, check your inbox regularly, including the spam folder.
Basic computer skills
- Use a keyboard and mouse comfortably, and practise typing a little every day.
- Create, name, save and find files and folders.
- Learn the basics of a word processor, a spreadsheet and a presentation tool. Many entry-level jobs use them.
Searching and applying for jobs
- Use well-known job portals and the careers pages on employers’ official websites.
- Keep your online profile honest and up to date.
- Read each job post carefully before you apply.
- Never pay money to apply for a job. See How to Spot Fake Job Offers.
Online forms and documents
Fill in forms carefully, check spellings and dates, and keep scanned copies of your documents in common formats such as PDF or JPG. DigiLocker, the Government of India’s digital document wallet, can help you store official documents.
Video calls
Learn to join a meeting from a link, turn your camera and microphone on and off, and use the chat. Test everything before an interview.
Staying safe online
- Use strong passwords, do not reuse them, and turn on two-step verification where available.
- Do not click links in unexpected messages, even if they look official.
- Never share OTPs, PINs or passwords with anyone.
- Avoid entering personal or bank details on public Wi-Fi.
- Think before you post. Employers may look at your public social media.
Digital payments
Learn how UPI works and how to check a payment before you confirm it. You never need to enter your UPI PIN to receive money. Read more in Managing Your First Salary.
Keep learning
Many skills can be learnt online, often for free. Read Learning Online Effectively and explore our e-learning services.
Next steps
If you want structured, job-oriented training, send a training enquiry or try the Career Finder.