What are the most essential IT skills for startup employees?
Basic Digital Literacy
- Proficiency with spreadsheets, word processors, and presentation tools.
- Comfort using cloud platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365.
- Ability to navigate dashboards and shared file systems.
- Understanding of file types, permissions, and formats.
- Familiarity with basic troubleshooting techniques.
Cybersecurity Awareness
- Knowledge of password hygiene and MFA usage.
- Ability to identify phishing or suspicious communications.
- Understanding of data privacy practices and secure sharing.
- Familiarity with VPNs and secure remote access.
- Awareness of security protocols for cloud platforms.
Collaboration and Communication Tools
- Skill in using team messaging platforms (Slack, Teams, etc.).
- Proficiency in video conferencing and screen sharing.
- Ability to organize projects in tools like Trello or Asana.
- Comfort collaborating in real-time on shared documents.
- Experience with time tracking and productivity software.
Cloud and SaaS Usage
- Understanding of cloud storage and version control systems.
- Familiarity with SaaS tools for CRM, HR, and finance.
- Basic knowledge of user roles and account management.
- Skill in managing integrations across platforms.
- Comfort working in web-based applications and mobile apps.
Data and Technical Skills
- Ability to work with data in spreadsheets or simple databases.
- Understanding of basic analytics tools like Google Analytics.
- Familiarity with exporting/importing data across systems.
- Comfort with low-code/no-code tools for simple automation.
- Optional: knowledge of HTML, CSS, or basic scripting for web edits.
