A new study from the World Economic Forum reveals that 37% of projected opportunities will be in the care economy; 17% in sales, marketing, and content; 16% in data and AI; 12% in engineering and cloud computing; and 8% in people and culture.
So how can you keep yourself ready and employable for the jobs of tomorrow?
Here are some tips.
Seek resources to upskill
Upskilling requires learning on the job to remain relevant in the changing future. According to a report by Manpower Group, 84% of companies planned to upskill employees in 2020 — a stark increase from 21% in 2011.
Have a conversation with your manager about how you can fit into the organisation’s long-term plans through upskilling.
If you’re looking for roles in customer service, data analysis, project management, recruitment, supply chain and sales development, LinkedIn’s new Skills Path service allows you to upskill with free courses, and validate these skills with assessments, to help you become more noticeable to potential employers. To get linked up to this LinkedIn service, click here!
Cultivate learnability
Candidates who can demonstrate higher cognitive skills, creativity, and ability to process complex information, along with adaptability and likeability, can expect greater career success.
Join industry associations
Industry associations often commission research to help members keep up with trends. The best associations offer practical benefits including certification, conferences, webinars, networking events, and job boards.
So consider joining one to stay current with your job skills.
Don’t ignore soft skills
Developing soft skill abilities can have an immediate and long-term impact on your career. And those are the transferable skills that will continue to be in demand.
Read Also: Transferable Skills: What Employers Are Looking For and How to Develop Them
No matter what work you do, the ability to learn, unlearn, relearn is vital to advancing your career. Employers are looking for candidates with skills and adaptability for this changing environment.
Plan a roadmap for your career
Having a plan for your career is important, but it’s become even more crucial in recent years as companies are fast adapting to changes.
Here are three steps you can take to develop a long-term career plan.
1. Know your skills and strengths
Take a skills inventory to know your strengths and where they could apply in the future. Soft skills like communication, creativity, and leadership can be transferred to new opportunities.
Read Also: Being a Better Colleague: Soft Skills to Improve Your Work Relationships
You can tap on other resources to help you spot your hidden abilities.
2. Have career conversations
Schedule conversations with your manager to discuss how they can assist.
Check with HR on whether your company offers virtual tools or career growth classes, or if they provide any assistance to take ongoing education.
Make your goals and plans known so they can help you succeed.
3. Know your career options
Whether you’re looking for new responsibilities with your organisation or to take on an emerging job role elsewhere, do your research to see what options may exist.
Consider how they fit into your short- and long-term career goals.
No matter where you are in your career, taking the time to consider what you really want is paramount.
Start planning today and give yourself the opportunity to reach where you want to find yourself in the future.
This article is contributed by Manpower Singapore.
