Upskilling TPF Colleagues in Tech

I've been training people to use technology for most of my adult life. Sometimes, it's a casual interaction that happens organically where someone needs quick help on the spot, and in others, training is in a formal group or classroom setting, where people just starting to use computers learn the basics and more advanced users grow their skills. I've had them all, from little ones to people in their 90s and everyone in between. One thing that is special about TPF Tech Excellence is that I get to teach my colleagues, and they are encouraged to learn and get paid for their time.

Working with TPFers on their technology skills since the start of Tech Excellence has been rewarding and enjoyable. I always aim to create an environment where people aren't afraid to ask questions or admit they don't understand -- which can be challenging in a virtual environment. I like to put people at ease with what they don't know, especially if their skills are just beginning to bud. With Tech Excellence, I've had the opportunity to tailor my instruction to people's needs because the groups have been small, and TPFers have been honest about what they don't know. This is when I can have the greatest impact, and I appreciate their courage. No one knows everything there is to know about technology, so being clear about where their skills are brings the stress down and drives the learning up.

Being a tech coach has also reminded me of how important the little things are in technology education. Most people who come to a tech class appreciate walking away with a tip or a trick to make their current work duties more efficient and seamless, in addition to covering the main topic being taught. Since I work alongside TPFers and understand how we use Google Workspace to work collaboratively, I like to share functionalities that make my work life easier and they appreciate that. I'm reminded of how important it is to really listen to what people need in addition to what they want to learn.

I'm excited to continue working as a TPF Tech Excellence coach, meet new colleagues who work on initiatives different from my own, and help more TPFers advance in their digital learning journey.