The future of work is unpredictable, with rapidly evolving technologies and shifting societal norms. Experts from ITM Africa reveal the emerging skill trends that can prepare the young workforce for big and small changes.
ITM Africa Ltd is a leading and comprehensive human capital development and business solutions company. The company has various experts who provide training and personnel management services.
We spoke to one of their experts and here are the skills they recommend young people should have to stay ahead of the job market and get a competitive edge.
Emotional intelligence
Apparently, Emotional Intelligence, or EI is the new IQ. Being a team player, a great communicator, and empathetic can take you places!
Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others. In a competitive market, EI is crucial because it enhances team collaboration, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Individuals with high EI are often more empathetic, enabling them to connect with colleagues and clients on a deeper level, fostering trust and loyalty. This skill is precious in roles that require negotiation, customer service, and team management. In a rapidly evolving work environment, the ability to adapt emotionally and maintain positive interactions is a significant asset.
Adaptability
In this digital age, understanding and interpreting data is the key to making informed decisions. It is what every employer wants and every employee should seek. If you can pivot and adapt, you’re golden!
The capacity to adapt to changes and challenges is vital in a fast-paced, ever-changing market. Employees who can quickly shift strategies, learn new technologies, and embrace new ways of working are invaluable.
This skill is particularly relevant in industries undergoing digital transformation or facing disruptive innovations, as it allows businesses to remain competitive and agile.
Data Literacy
Understanding and interpreting data is the key to making informed decisions. It is what every employer wants and every employee should seek.
Data literacy refers to the ability to read, understand, create, and communicate data as information. With the exponential growth of data in every sector, being able to interpret and leverage data is a powerful competitive edge.
Data-literate individuals can make informed decisions based on factual insights, predict market trends, and identify new opportunities. This skill is increasingly in demand across various roles, not just traditional data-focused positions like data scientists. In a data-driven world, the ability to translate data into actionable insights is a key differentiator.
Coding
Coding isn’t just for computer geeks anymore. From fashion to finance, knowing how to code can make you an asset!
Coding is no longer just for software developers. Basic coding skills are becoming essential across many job roles and industries. Understanding the basics of coding can improve problem-solving and logical thinking skills.
It enables professionals to automate mundane tasks, understand the technological aspects of their work better, and communicate more effectively with technical teams. Coding skills can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities and allow professionals to contribute to innovation and digital transformation initiatives within their organizations.
