Companies are increasingly adopting skills-based hiring and employee development, motivated by the desire to leverage the revolutionary possibilities of emerging technologies. This shift prompts a vital question: as a job seeker or employer aiming for success in 2024, which skills should you focus on developing?
We’re in the early AI era, but automation of manual tasks is still limited, and let’s face it, most of us are not prepared to become entirely obsolete just yet.
The most in-demand skills fall into two categories: technology-oriented skills that enable organisations to leverage advanced tools, and ‘soft skills’ that enhance our inherent human qualities. These skills, whether tech-focused or interpersonal, are crucial in a world where machines are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
In his book, Future Skills: The 20 Skills and Competencies Everyone Needs to Succeed in a Digital World, Bernard Marr highlights the skills that will be valuable for the next 12 months and beyond.
- Generative AI Skills
The emergence of generative AIs like ChatGPT, often compared to the disruptive impact of the iPhone, has transformed how we create, automate, and save time in both professional and personal spheres. Skills necessary for recognising opportunities, crafting efficient solutions, managing change, and addressing ethical concerns will be highly valued throughout 2024.
- Sustainability Skills
With the critical importance of sustainable operations becoming more recognised, businesses now see achieving net zero targets as a strategic priority. Skills related to developing and implementing environmentally friendly solutions are increasingly valuable..
- Project Management
Managing both people and technology requires a unique set of skills that combine oversight, strategic planning, and resource allocation—functions that AI tools have yet to master. Professionals in this field are finding great opportunities to use AI in various aspects of project management, from prototyping to compliance.
- Communication Skills
As business environments evolve, effective communication becomes crucial. The ability to convey the insights from data analytics and to communicate effectively with increasingly sophisticated machines is essential for filling emerging roles within organisations.
- Data Skills
In an era dominated by AI, the ability to convert data into actionable insights is crucial. Data science not only supports business success but also ensures that AI applications are ethical, and decisions made by machines are transparent and understandable.
- Interpersonal Networking
The skill of building influential networks and forging relationships based on trust and shared objectives is invaluable, particularly as technology opens new avenues for personal and professional growth.
- Cloud Computing Skills
As the market for cloud computing continues to expand significantly, the demand for professionals skilled in cloud infrastructure and applications will remain strong, ensuring their relevance and competitiveness in the technology sector.
- Machine Learning Engineering
, as evidenced by job market forecasts. Despite the rise of user-friendly AI tools and self-building AI systems, the need for machine learning engineers continues to grow.
- Cybersecurity Skills
With the increase in frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, skills in cybersecurity are more crucial than ever. The race to stay ahead of attackers demands constant advancements in security technology, making this skill set extremely sought after in the coming years.