With so much technology being developed, we’re seeing big changes in our workplaces. While we’ve not all been replaced by robots yet, professionals need to be aware of what changes are taking place and plan for workplaces of the future. Having the right skillset is central if you want to continue to be relevant and successful over the next decade.
So, what skills will be important for the future of work?
1. Emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence has been an important skill for a long time, but businesses are increasingly prioritising it when looking for people to join their team. Emotional intelligence is all to do with our ability to understand our own emotions, as well as those of the people around us. It’s a powerful skill to possess and once you do, you will be more influential and successful in your communications at work. It’s also a skill that can’t be replaced by technology.
2. Creativity
Like emotional intelligence, robots will be unable to replace us in the creativity department. We have a fantastic ability to imagine and come up with new things and it’s through innovation that we continue to achieve economic growth. The companies that innovate will gain a competitive advantage so they need teams of people with creative thinking skills and plenty of new ideas.
3. Adaptability
With the workplace rapidly changing around us, there aren’t as many skills and jobs that will be relevant for our whole life. However, if you can be flexible and adapt quickly you will be able to maintain your value at work. Whatever stage you are at in your career, it’s important to be able to learn new skills, adapt to new processes and continue to invest in your professional development.
4. Data literacy
There’s been a data explosion over the last few years and companies are now inundated with data that can be extremely valuable. However, in order to make the most of this data, businesses need people who can analyse and interpret it in a way that enables companies to make better decisions. And you don’t have to be a Data Scientist for data literacy to be important. The majority of roles will involve coming into contact with data so it’s important for everyone to be able to understand and use it.
5. Technology skills
Technology is completely reshaping our world, never mind our businesses. It’s already playing a vital role in most workplaces and in many cases there’s a whole range of technology coming together to change the way we work. We have:
- The internet
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Data
- Robotics
- 3D printing
- Blockchain
There is ground-breaking technology emerging in every industry and it’s vital for businesses to understand and keep up with these changes and implement those that are relevant for them.
Bringing it all together
We’re living in a world that is more interconnected than ever. We’re working more flexibly and have an age-diverse workforce. With so much advancement, it’s down to us to ensure that we keep up and stay relevant and successful throughout our whole careers. Developing these five skills is definitely a good start.