Cover Some skills help you get hired more than others
Some skills help you get hired more than others
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What do today’s employers expect from potential employees? We round up some essential skills that the new generation needs to succeed
The global landscape of work is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, evolving societal needs, and an increasingly competitive environment. This dynamic shift necessitates a new set of skills from the emerging generation of students.
Global professional services giant Deloitte predicts that soft-skill-intensive occupations will account for two-thirds of all jobs by 2030, cementing the fact that while traditional hard skills remain important, employers are actively seeking individuals equipped with a diverse skill set that goes beyond technical expertise.
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Below are some essential skill sets that will set new graduates apart:
Above Working in a team is an essential skill in most organisations
Working in a team is an essential skill in most organisations
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Tech savviness
In the age of ubiquitous technology, being digitally literate is a fundamental need rather than a luxury. It includes being aware of, making use of and navigating the multitude of digital tools and platforms, such as social media, cloud computing, word processing software, and data analysis.
According to The Future of Jobs Report 2023 by the World Economic Forum, 74 per cent of participants anticipate that digital literacy will become a mandatory prerequisite for the majority of jobs by 2025. Digitally literate people are great assets in every company because they can use technology for learning, communication, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Data literacy
The ability to understand, analyse, and interpret data is an essential skill in the new, information-driven world. Data literacy enables people to derive meaningful insights from raw information, make informed decisions based on evidence, and communicate findings effectively. This translates to better problem-solving, innovation, and strategic thinking—all of which are highly coveted by employers.
A 2022 study by IBM revealed that 90 per cent of executives believe their organisations need a workforce with data literacy skills. Mastering data literacy empowers individuals to navigate the ever-growing volume of data effectively and transform it into actionable knowledge, a skill increasingly sought-after across various industries.
Critical thinking
Success in any field continues to depend heavily on one’s capacity for thinking outside the box. This involves conducting an objective analysis of the data, identifying root causes, and developing creative solutions. Employers value individuals who can think independently, consider different perspectives and develop creative solutions to problems. In a 2023 survey conducted by Jobstreet, problem-solving skills ranked first as the most important attribute employers look for in job applicants. Your ability to solve problems and think critically will enable you to handle challenging situations and make valuable contributions to any team.
Above Tech savviness is more important than ever
Tech savviness is more important than ever
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Emotional intelligence (EQ)
Beyond cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence or more commonly known as EQ is crucial for success in today’s workplace. People who have a good understanding of both themselves and other people are better able to control their emotions, empathise with others, forge closer bonds with others, and create happier workplaces. Good communication, dispute resolution, and teamwork are all facilitated by high EQ, making people invaluable in cooperative environments.
Social skills and empathy
The secret to creating connections and encouraging collaboration in the fast-paced workplace is having the capacity to communicate clearly, form enduring bonds with people, and show empathy. Strong verbal and written communication abilities, attentive listening, and the capacity for productive teamwork are all key elements of good communication.
Companies want people who can create strong networks, navigate work situations, and constructively contribute to a happy workplace. As reported by Forbes, “In today’s collaborative work environment, strong social skills are critical.” By honing your social skills and empathy, you can build strong networks, foster positive collaboration, and contribute to a productive and harmonious team environment.
Public speaking and communications
Effective communication and public speaking abilities are no longer just nice-to-haves, but rather what employers look for in today’s ever-changing job market. Individuals who can clearly articulate their ideas—both verbally and in writing—to a diverse audience will advance faster in their careers. Whether it’s presenting reports to colleagues, negotiating with clients, or fostering collaboration within a team, strong communication skills enable individuals to connect effectively, build trust, and achieve desired outcomes.
Additionally, public speaking skills are increasingly sought-after for leadership positions, as these roles often involve motivating teams, delivering presentations, and engaging with stakeholders. Being proficient in public speaking will empower you to confidently navigate various professional situations and demonstrate your expertise effectively.
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