The Most In-Demand Skills Employers Are Looking for in 2023
In an ever-changing professional landscape, staying relevant and marketable is not just a matter of choice but a necessity. The dynamic nature of the job market means that the skills employers are searching for are continually evolving. According to the World Economic Forum, 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025 as technology adoption increases. So, what are the most in-demand skills employers are seeking in 2023?
1. Data Literacy
The Information Age has given birth to the phenomenon of Big Data. BHEF's report highlights the growing need for professionals who can interpret data, convert it into meaningful information, and apply that knowledge to make informed decisions. This skill is vital across all business sectors, not only in roles traditionally associated with data analysis. By 2025, up to 75% of the global workforce is expected to be data literate. As a result, upskilling in this area can boost a candidate's employability and adaptability in a digital-first world.
2. Cybersecurity
With our dependence on digital platforms growing, so has the potential for cyber threats. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a significant increase in the need for cybersecurity professionals over the next decade. Individuals skilled in detecting, preventing, and responding to cyber threats are vital for businesses to maintain digital integrity. Furthermore, understanding cybersecurity best practices is becoming a desirable skill for any role within an organization, making cybersecurity literacy a universal job requirement in the near future.
3. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence (EI) is more than a soft skill. It's the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions and the emotions of others. Working well with others and navigating complex interpersonal dynamics is critical. A high EI can improve teamwork, improve decision-making, and lower stress levels, making emotionally intelligent candidates highly sought after.
4. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and Machine Learning have revolutionized how we approach problem-solving and decision-making. As automation continues to be integrated into every aspect of business, professionals with AI and Machine Learning knowledge are indispensable. Their skills can be used to streamline processes, enhance customer experience, and generate insightful data analytics. This demand for AI and Machine Learning expertise will only increase as more companies embark on their digital transformation journeys.
5. Project Management
Effective project management can make or break the success of any project. It's not just about overseeing tasks; it's about guiding teams, managing resources, and ensuring alignment with strategic goals. The demand for professionals with solid project management skills spans all industries - from construction to IT to healthcare. These skills and certifications can significantly enhance job prospects.
6. UX/UI Design
As businesses strive to offer seamless digital experiences, the demand for professionals with UX/UI design skills has skyrocketed. They are tasked with making software, apps, and websites functional, engaging, and easy to navigate. Beyond technical prowess, these professionals require a deep understanding of human behavior to design intuitive interfaces that meet user needs. Adobe projects that the demand for these skills will grow exponentially in the coming decade.
7. Creativity and Innovation
Human creativity and innovation take center stage in a world where routine tasks are increasingly automated. The World Economic Forum cites these skills as critical differentiators in the future workforce. Creativity and innovation are not exclusive to traditionally 'creative' roles but are needed across the board. They fuel problem-solving, help businesses stay ahead of trends, and are integral to driving business growth and sustainability.
8. Cloud Computing
As companies migrate their data and services to the cloud to improve accessibility and efficiency, professionals with cloud computing skills are in high demand. This includes expertise in platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud and an understanding of cloud security. LinkedIn's 2020 Emerging Jobs Report indicates that this demand is likely to continue as more businesses digitize their operations.
9. Critical Thinking and Complex Problem Solving
In an increasingly complex world, dissecting problems, analyzing them, and devising practical solutions is a highly sought-after skill. It requires logic, reasoning, and a level-headed approach to decision-making. As we move toward a more global, digital economy, the World Economic Forum predicts these skills will be even more crucial.
10. Sales and Marketing
Even as digital platforms transform how businesses reach their customers, the core skills of sales and marketing remain relevant. The shift towards digital has only increased the demand for professionals skilled in digital marketing, SEO, content creation, and social media marketing. According to LinkedIn, "digital marketing specialist" was among the top 10 jobs with the highest number of job openings in 2020, emphasizing the growing need for digital-savvy sales and marketing professionals.
Staying relevant in the job market requires continuous learning and upskilling. However, this list is incomplete, and the best mix of skills may vary depending on the industry, job role, and region. Professionals should keep abreast of job market trends to remain competitive and meet employers' changing demands.
Sources:
"Building a Data-Literate Workforce." Business-Higher Education Forum. www.bhef.com/publications/building-data-literate-workforce
"Information Security Analysts." U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm
"CareerBuilder Survey." www.careerbuilder.com/advice/emotional-intelligence
"Workplace Learning Report 2020." LinkedIn Learning. learning.linkedin.com/resources/workplace-learning-report
"Emerging Jobs Report 2020." LinkedIn. www.business.linkedin.com/talent-solutions/blog/trends-and-research/2020/emerging-jobs-2020
"Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017–2027." PMI. www.pmi.org/learning/careers/job-growth
"2023 Design Trends." Adobe. www.adobe.com/creativecloud/trends/design-trends-2023
"The Future of Jobs Report 2020." World Economic Forum. www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020
"The Most In-Demand Jobs Right Now." LinkedIn. www.linkedin.com/pulse/most-in-demand-jobs-right-now-andrew-seaman