An initial idea of the jobs out there

This week, I continued to look for top entry-level computer-based jobs in the Rajasthan and Haryana area.

One source of information that I looked at was employment websites (such as naukri.com and monster.com). From the initial 10 jobs listings, it seemed that almost all of the openings were for a data entry operator/front desk role (two of the listings had a 1000 job openings each!). The requirements were essentially for those who type fast, and can also operate MS Word, Excel etc. Some of the job listings simply mentioned ‘computer knowledge’ as a requirement. An interesting thing to note is virtually all of these jobs were in different industries. However, almost all of them were in major cities, the majority of them being in Bombay. One thing that isn’t clear is whether ability to speak English is a requirement for the job, something which we’ll have to ascertain.

I looked at the government job publications in the local library, and the listings for computer-related jobs were pretty sparse. Of the three that were available, the main requirement was also typing (at a minimum rate of 30wpm).

Detailed information came from two other sources. Through a reference from an Indicorps colleague, I spoke with an NGO in Ahmedabad called Manav Sadhna which offers computer training through the Ambedkar Open University. They mentioned that virtually all of their students get a job thereafter, mainly as data entry operators. The main requirement that employers look for is a typing speed of at least 50wpm (in English and regional languages). They emphasized that students should be proficient in basic, often-used functions – how to create a letter in MS Word, a spreadsheet in MS Excel, and how to format and print these documents.

The other great source was an eminent chartered accountant in Jhunjhunu by the name of Shri B.K. Agrawal. He mentioned that there is indeed a need for Tally operators with a BCom degree. However, the organizations in Jhunjhunu cannot afford to keep a full-time employee just for Tally entry – they need someone who can operate Tally, draft documents, edit spreadsheets, handle customer and perform other office functions. I am planning to shadow him for a day next week to get a more precise understanding of his requirements.