Software Trainers: Teaching the Technology

Answer 1

People rely on computers more than any time in recent history. Along with that reliance comes a need to understand how to use the software that is installed on the system. Software trainers are professionals that fill that educational need. These professionals can find work in a wide range of areas and can be found teaching in schools, professional corporate trainers and private consultants.

Software trainers are specialist in teaching people how to use computer software applications and programs. These can be as basic as teaching someone how to use their operating system, maximize their Office skills, desktop publishing or specialize in more advanced software. They are responsible for organizing materials, communicating key concepts and educating their clients. There is no set program that a software trainer needs to know, however, the more programs the trainer understands places them in higher demand.

There is no set degree for this career field, unless the trainer is seeking work in a school system. Most educational facilities require a four year degree and a teaching certification. If a company is hiring a trainer, they will want to see proof that the candidate has mastered the required software and has had some training in communication. An Associates Degree in communications can go a long way in helping trainers find employment. Experience is helpful and any training that has previously been done should be kept as part of a portfolio, to show potential employers. Some employers hire trainers from within their current employee pool. This is especially true when the software is specialized to their company and the training is ongoing.

No matter what software the trainer works with, they must master it. They must be able to explain the complexities of the software to users with various levels of experience. Communication skills are one of the key skills required of a professional trainer. Organization is another highly desirable skill for a trainer. Organization will help the trainer convey the message that they need to get across to the client. They should also be able to develop their own training material and be able to use different medium to achieve their training goals.

With a median salary of about $45,000 per year, software training is a highly sought after career field. The various educational backgrounds required make this field available to many people. More companies are requiring proficiency in software than ever before and makes the software trainer in more demand than ever.