Preparing for the Future of Work

6 Essential Skills Your Organization Needs to Thrive in 2030

As we approach the year 2030, the nature of work is changing rapidly. Advancements in technology and communication have already altered the way we work, and this trend is set to continue. It’s important to identify the key skills that will be necessary to thrive in the future of work.

According to McKinsey, it’s the “social and emotional, and higher cognitive skills” that will be most valuable in the future. However, it’s not just about possessing these skills – attitude will also play a key role. This means that the way employees approach their jobs and their willingness to learn new skills will be just as important as the skills themselves.

Here are 6 of the most important skills that will be needed for success in the future of work:

Digital Competence

As we move towards a digital-first world, it’s essential that workers have the skills to navigate this new landscape. This means everything from basic computer literacy to more advanced skills such as digital product management and UX design. With the pace of change showing no signs of slowing down, it’s important to maintain digital competence through continuous learning and development.

Communication

In a world where we communicate through multiple channels and across different locations, effective communication skills will be vital. This means honing both written and verbal skills and being clear, concise, and jargon-free. Effective communication is a two-way process that requires the ability to listen as well as share information.

Mental Agility

The ability to think, learn, and adapt is key to success in the future of work. This means being creative and resilient in the face of change and having the ability to pivot when opportunities or challenges arise. Nurturing a growth mindset and approaching situations with a beginner’s mind can help to cultivate mental agility.

Critical Thinking

In an era of information overload, the ability to evaluate, filter, and analyze information is crucial. Critical thinking is essential in situations that require effective decision-making, problem-solving, time management, and planning. It involves rigorously breaking down information to lay the foundations for progress and innovation.

Interpersonal Skills

Remote working has many benefits, but it also comes with the risk of isolation. Interpersonal skills such as collaboration, communication, and empathy are essential for building strong relationships and a sense of community in a remote working environment. These skills are also crucial for conflict resolution and giving and receiving feedback.

Self-management

The ability to self-motivate, self-regulate, and be self-aware will be increasingly important in the future of work. Self-management requires emotional intelligence and the ability to manage and understand emotions. This leads to greater clarity around decision-making, improved performance, and the ability to motivate and inspire others.

The future of work is rapidly changing, and it’s important to identify the skills that will be most valuable in this new landscape. Social and emotional skills, along with higher cognitive skills, will be crucial. However, it’s also important to approach work with the right attitude and to be willing to learn and adapt to new challenges. By developing these 6 key skills, workers can prepare themselves for success in the future of work.

Sources: https://www.workplace.com/blog/future-work-skills