Ben O'Connell
The skills that employers seek evolve each year. Gone are the days of solely relying on traditional qualifications – the future belongs to people who can offer a cocktail of technical prowess, adaptability, and soft skills.
At the front of this evolution stands the undeniable rise of tech-savviness. Data has become the lifeblood of modern decision-making. The ability to wrangle this information, from interpreting complex trends to building intelligent models, will be a golden ticket across industries.
Employers will increasingly seek those fluent in the languages of AI and machine learning, capable of harnessing their power to solve problems and drive innovation. But technology is a double-edged sword.
As our digital reliance deepens, so too does the vulnerability of our systems. Cybersecurity, once a niche concern, is now a cornerstone skill. The ability to safeguard data, defend against cyberattacks, and navigate the ever-shifting landscape of online threats will be a badge of honour for any professional.
Specifically, a grasp of generative AI technologies is becoming a crucial requirement in many industries. Generative AI, which involves creating new data models from existing ones, opens up new possibilities across various sectors, from creating digital content to designing new drugs.
In the digital age, literacy goes beyond reading and writing to include digital literacy. Being able to navigate and use digital tools is becoming a base requirement in the modern workplace.
Data analysis, AI, and machine learning are key skills that, while particularly relevant in the tech industry, are becoming increasingly important in other sectors too. These data-centric skills enable businesses to make informed strategic decisions and offer personalised services to customers.
Coding, cybersecurity, and digital marketing are more specific skills that are in high demand, especially in tech-related fields. As businesses increasingly move online, the need for these skills is only going to grow.
The ability to work effectively in a hybrid (remote and in-person) setup, is another valuable skill. As companies across the globe adopt hybrid work models, employees who can navigate this new working style will be sought after. Overall, we cannot entirely articulate the changes to expect in the tech world pertaining to finding work because it’s evolving too quickly for us to keep up, but these are just a handful of skills to potentially hone.
Adaptability and resilience are also crucial in a rapidly changing world. The ability to pivot quickly in response to changes and bounce back from setbacks is something employers are likely to prize.
As more companies incorporate sustainable practices into their operations, possessing sustainability skills is also desirable. Workers who can contribute to a company’s environmental goals not just through their work but also through their understanding of sustainable practices will likely be in high demand.
The World Economic Forum estimates that 50% of all employees will need to reskill or upskill by 2025. The time to develop that niche skill, work on the side hustle, and overall be a more diverse cocktail as mentioned before, is now!
Five quick tips for skill development, you ask? We answer that you should identify your strengths and weaknesses, focus on developing a well-rounded skillset, take advantage of online learning resources and courses, network with professionals in your field, and highlight your skills – no matter how niche in your eyes – in your resume and cover letter.
Soft skills like Creativity, Collaboration, Self-motivation, and Problem-solving continue to be highly valued by employers. These skills, which enhance an employee’s ability to work effectively within a team and adapt to various situations, are fundamental across all industries.
Project management continues to be a critical skill across various sectors. The ability to oversee a project from conception to completion, manage a team, and ensure timely delivery are aspects that remain integral to business success.
Communication skills are timeless and continue to be highly valued by employers. In an increasingly digital world, the ability to effectively communicate both online and offline is indispensable.
This human touch is irreplaceable. The ability to listen intently, express ideas clearly, and work seamlessly within teams will be a timeless asset. Leadership, the ability to inspire and motivate others, will be crucial in navigating complex projects and achieving shared goals.
This is not to say that technical expertise will become obsolete. Far from it. Depending on the industry and specific role, in-depth knowledge of programming languages, cloud computing platforms, or specialised software will remain highly valuable.
However, these skills alone will no longer suffice. The future belongs to those who can blend technical prowess with the adaptability of a chameleon and the emotional intelligence of a seasoned diplomat.
Remember, the future belongs to the agile, the adaptable, and the emotionally intelligent. Are you ready to step into it?