Pandemic induces employers to analyze the capabilities that the workforce will need in the coming years
A survey of 5,220 professionals from 31 countries conducted by Robert Walters sought to assess their experience with remote work during covid-19, as well as expectations for the post-pandemic. In this survey, respondents also shared what skills will be most in-demand in the future and what changes the pandemic has brought to the corporate world.
During and for a long time after the pandemic, the Fourth Industrial Revolution will bring a rapid technological transformation to the markets – and companies need people who enable and maximize the value of this transformation. Although artificial intelligence (AI) takes care of more administrative and transactional tasks, humans will remain in control ultimately, warns the consultancy Critical thinking skills will continue to be in high demand, which is why, according to the survey, hiring managers say the five most sought after social skills in the future will be:
Communication
Companies will need people who, in addition to visualizing the commercial potential of technology, also translate this vision in order to inspire colleagues.
Business Intelligence
Data will be the fuel that will fuel new products, services and innovations. Professionals who can convert data into business intelligence will be in high demand.
Management/leadership
The markets will be in constant change, and companies will need leaders who will guide and motivate teams to adjust to continuous change.
Collaboration
Many companies will have an increasingly remote workforce, requiring people to collaborate and promote culture in virtual teams.
Crisis management
In a highly volatile market, employers will look for professionals who are proactive in mitigating risks, managing cybersecurity and assisting companies in challenging times.
Adaptability
Along with these social skills, hiring managers should seek to identify professionals who demonstrate readiness for adaptation, given the continuing evolution of digitalization in the workforce. Professionals who have been exposed to digital transformation and who have the digital skills necessary to fulfil their function will be on the rise in a scenario where technologies continue to evolve and influence the function/sector in question.
“The old saying ‘what can be measured can be managed’ is not just for the technical skills that employees need to learn – it is also for intrinsic qualities like resilience, communication and collaboration. Managers must highlight these qualities in their personal performance development plans, defining the steps that individuals will need to take to practice and sharpen them “, concludes Kevin Gibson, CEO Latam at Robert Walters.
