Microsoft Office Skills for Beginners & Returners

Gemma
Jun 29
2 min read

Whether you’re re-entering the workforce after a break or starting your career for the first time, you’ve probably had this thought:

“I really hope they don’t ask me to use Excel…”

You’re not alone. At Smart Skills Academy, we speak to people every day who feel anxious about using Microsoft Office; Excel, Word and PowerPoint - not because they can’t do the job, but because they’ve never been shown how to use these programs with confidence.

Here’s the truth: lack of tech skills shouldn’t hold you back—and it doesn’t have to.

Workplace tech has changed—and so can you

Let’s face it: tech has moved on. The workplace environment has changed hugely over the past 5 years, processes that were commonplace only 5 years ago have been eradicated and the tools we use look completely different now. Even fresh graduates are expected to “just know” how to pull together data in Excel, write a perfect document in Word, or deliver slick slides in PowerPoint—with no training at all.

students working on their laptops — Those returning to work say they feel “anxious” or “less capable”

It’s not fair. And it’s not your fault.

But here's the good news:

you can catch up—fast

Feeling behind? You’re not alone

Over 80% of job roles in today’s market list Microsoft Office as a required skill.
And yet, more than 1 in 3 professionals admit they feel underprepared to use Excel or PowerPoint in the real world.
Many returners say they feel “anxious” or “less capable” simply because they’re unsure how to navigate digital tools.

We want to change that.

We make the learning fit You

At Smart Skills Academy, we meet you where you are—no assumptions, no jargon, no pressure.

Whether you're:

Returning to work after raising a family
Pivoting to a new career
Looking for your very first role
Or simply tired of faking it in Excel...

We’ve got your back. Our tutorials are:

✅ Easy to follow

✅ Friendly and judgement-free

✅ Designed for real-life work situations

✅ Led by someone who gets it (Hi! I’m Gemma.)

Build real confidence, not just skills

This isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about walking into a job interview (or back into the office) knowing:

✅ How to make a simple spreadsheet that actually works

✅ How to format a Word document so it looks professional

✅ How to create a PowerPoint presentation without wanting to scream into the void

Because when you feel confident with the tools, you show up differently. You speak up more. You try new things. You stop apologising for needing help and start shining.

Let’s get you ready

We believe technical skills should be accessible, simple, and empowering—especially for those at transitional points in their careers.

Whether you’re starting fresh or starting again, Smart Skills Academy is here to make sure you’re not left behind. Our website has examples of Microsoft Office skills training that is available to you and even Microsoft Office skills tests.