We’ve produced this piece with the help of our friends at National Numeracy
When you think of maths it might be algebra, calculus or trigonometry which come to mind. You might think you don’t need to be able to do these things in the world of work and in most cases, you would be right. However, numeracy is not the same as high level mathematics but rather being confident with the use of numbers in everyday situations.
Wherever you want to work and whatever you do you will need the Essentials of Numeracy to tackle problems. Whether it’s working out medication doses in a hospital, taking measurements on a building site or handling cash at a checkout there is no hiding from numbers.  We all need to be numbers people to get into work and perform well once there.
Why does numeracy matter to employers?
Many job interviews now include a numeracy test. You may find that you have all the other skills you need but run the risk of being turned away based on your numeracy. For example, National Numeracy has worked with NHS trusts who know that many potential candidates have the skills needed to deliver quality care, but do not apply because they are not confident with maths.
Employers value numeracy for several reasons, including:
- Good decision making is very difficult without use of numbers and data. Understanding quantitative information is key to making the best choices.
- Confidence with numbers is vital for confidence with money, whether this is cash handling or budget management.
- Safety is often underpinned by numeracy – for example healthcare staff calculate doses of medicine and have the patient’s safety in their hands, cleaners may be mixing potentially dangerous chemicals and construction staff need to be accurate with figures to keep their site safe.
- It is essential for productivity, people who are confident with numbers are likely to get more done.
- It drives efficiency by minimising both wasted time and losses caused by mistakes.
Do numbers still fill you with fear?
If the thought of maths fills you with dread, you are not alone. It can be tempting to hide away from it, but with numeracy needed on a daily basis in the workplace this will hold you back.
Anyone can improve their numeracy skills and become confident with numbers. The formula for success is having:
- Value: Understanding that numeracy skills are important in work and everyday life.
- Belief: Realising that there is no such thing as a maths gene – it is a skill which you can learn, not one that some people are born with. You are capable of being numerate.
- Effort: Accepting that some work will be required to get where you need to be, and that this does not mean that you are ‘no good at maths’.
The National Numeracy Challenge is a free online resource which can help. It’s an easy way of finding out if you have the Essentials of Numeracy. If not, you can use online resources to help you improve your confidence and your abilities, all selected at the right level for you. All the maths is based around real situations you might find in daily life or the workplace. You can work at your own pace and access it any time. When you get the Essentials you can claim a digital badge or a certificate – an easy way to boost your employability from home.
Why not take the Challenge today?
