- If you’re interested in this program and you live within our service area, fill out our application form then follow the prompts to schedule a virtual appointment.
- If you’re unable to reserve a virtual appointment or would rather meet with one of our team members in person to begin your application process, we also accept walk-ins at all of our career centers.
Microsoft Essentials Training
Goodwill’s free Microsoft Essentials training course will teach you the ins and outs of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint – three systems many hiring employers want their candidates to know how to use. Goodwill’s Microsoft Essentials training course, which we call “Microsoft Essentials for Business,” is an instructor-led virtual training course designed with 60 hours of lectures, tutorials, daily hands-on exercises and final projects integrating all three productivity tools – Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint. Upon successful completion, students will earn a Microsoft Essentials for Business Certificate of Completion. In this course, you will learn to:
- Master Microsoft Word from beginner to advanced
- Format documents effectively
- Apply various page layout techniques
- Prepare documents for printing
- Build a solid understanding of the basics of Microsoft Excel
- Use the most common Excel functions used in the office
- Create a business presentation
- Minimize text quantity on presentations by using graphs and images
Upcoming Training Dates
| Application Period | Training Dates | Delivery |
| March 16 – April 13 | May 2 – 19 | Virtual (Instructor Led) |
| April 14 – May 13 | June 6 – 23 | Hybrid (In Person & Virtual) |
Course Timeframe
Goodwill’s Microsoft Essentials for Business course lasts three weeks (approximately 20 hours per week). Class meets Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Weeks 1 and 2 include lectures, tutorials and daily hands-on exercises. In Week 3, students will have the option to complete final projects to earn certification.
Certification Opportunities
Upon successful completion of Goodwill’s Microsoft training course, students will earn a Microsoft Essentials for Business Certificate of Completion.
Prerequisite
Prior to enrolling in Goodwill’s Microsoft training course, you must pass a Basic Computer Skills assessment. Having basic computer skills – including the ability to navigate between applications, use a keyboard, manipulate a mouse and navigate the internet – will set you up for success with this course.
Prepare for Training
Access Free Online Learning at GCFGlobal and Northstar Digital Literacy to practice Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and to develop other computer skills needed for the training.
Required Technology
- Wi-Fi for internet access
- A computer/laptop/tablet (a cell phone is not sufficient to access course materials)
- Webcam and microphone to participate in course exercises and discussions
Don’t Have Access to the Above Technology?
- Notify a Goodwill team member upon registration to reserve space at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus to utilize our available technology
- Or click here to get connected with Digital Charlotte, an organization that assists people in Mecklenburg County with signing up for affordable internet service and purchasing affordable technology
Related Career Information
To find out more information about potential careers, trends, wages and benefits for those that complete this course, visit www.onetonline.org.
Job Search Support
As a participant in one of Goodwill’s training courses, you’ll have access to a Career Navigator who can help you with your resume and interview skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to work with our Employer Engagement Team, who can help you find and secure employment.
