We live in an increasingly competitive world, with the job market and business landscape constantly evolving. In a cut-throat ecosystem, companies are on the lookout for the right talent who bring innovation and diverse skill sets to the table and can drive business growth. To gain an edge and thrive in such a market, continuous learning is essential. However, today, a talent deficit has emerged as one of the key challenges faced by organisations across industry verticals.
A recent India Skills Report revealed an alarming fact: the overall youth employability is a mere 50.03%. Besides this, a UNESCO-UNEVOC report showed that approximately 44% of existing workers’ skills will face disruption in the next five years. If this gap is not addressed, there could be an adverse impact on not just individuals’ careers but the economy overall. So, upskilling is no longer a mere buzzword or a choice. It is imperative for the youth to upskill to stay relevant in their fields and succeed in their careers.
Providing the human touch
As technology continues to take centre stage, with many routine, monotonous tasks being automated, the focus is shifting to uniquely human skills. Machines can process data, but they can’t replicate human creativity or emotional intelligence. The World Economic Forum’s 2023 skills report reflects this shift. Cognitive and self-efficacy skills top the list. Analytical and creative thinking lead, followed by resilience, flexibility, and agility.
The tech imperative
In today’s digital age, tech upskilling is crucial. Regardless of industry, basic tech literacy is now a must. Advanced tech skills can set you apart in the job market. They can also future-proof your career against automation. Investing in tech skills is investing in your professional longevity.
People: The key to innovation
People are the driving force behind innovation and business growth. This is especially true in the service and retail sectors. Here, customer experience is central to the company’s purpose. To serve customers well, businesses must create good jobs and invest in employee upskilling. By doing so, they enhance their service quality and competitive edge.
Skills for the modern workplace
Beyond technical skills, there are other skill sets that are vital to thrive in today’s workplace. For instance, effective project management with digital technology expertise is in high demand. Design thinking helps in problem-solving and innovation. Critical and metacognitive thinking enable better decision-making. Self-management capabilities are also vital. These include active learning, problem-solving, and logical reasoning. Collaboration and communication skills round out the essential skill set for modern professionals.
The importance of an early start
The adage “The early bird gets the worm” holds especially true in the job market. The sooner one begins to upskill, the better. For students and recent graduates, early investment in upskilling is crucial. It boosts employability and sets the stage for a successful career. By acquiring in-demand skills early, young professionals can stand out in a competitive job market. They can also adapt more easily to future changes in their chosen fields.
Bottomline
From tech skills to interpersonal soft skills, continuous learning is paramount to building a prosperous career. The future belongs to those who embrace lifelong learning and development and adapt quickly to change.
The author is the Founder and CEO of Unstop.