Believe it or not, we’re just over two months away from 2023. With a new year comes the chance to work towards new objectives. If you’re interested in advancing your career in the near future, you’ll want to make sure your “new year, new me” includes embracing trending skills.
We’ve previously covered some of the best skills to learn for 2022, along with which skills to leave off of your resume. While many 2022 skills are still highly relevant and transferable, the ever-evolving business world requires new skills to stay up to date. Join us as we examine Forbes’ Jack Kelly’s list of competitive skills to master in 2023 and add some insights of our own!
Adaptability
Adaptability was one of our top recommended skills for 2022, and it’s no surprise to see it topped Jack’s list for 2023. While adaptability has always been a prime trait, the speedy advancements in technology and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have further increased the importance of this skill.
Jack mentions the uncertainty of the job market, corporations having massive layoffs without replacing their workforce, and the inconsistency of remote and office jobs as rising traits that look to continue in 2023. The constant uncertainty, and the idea that you may need to switch jobs due to outside circ*mstances, means that those who can adapt and go with the flow will have the most success.
“To adapt to changes, you may need to continually reinvent yourself and pivot to new career directions.” -Jack Kelly
If you’re looking to become more adaptable, Harvard Business Review’s Michael Mankins recommends showing a willingness to adapt in the first place, working on your flexibility, and learning how to plan for multiple outcomes. You can learn further strategies here.
Coding
You may not work in software development or be a coder, but almost every job requires working with ever-evolving technology. There are so many quality-of-life enhancements brought about by new technology, and to get the most out of them, you’ll want at least a basic understanding of the underlying technology.
Jack says that building a comfort level is immensely helpful, and having a basic understanding of coding, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, or cybersecurity will give you an excellent foundation.
If you wish to take things even further, many of the most predicted in-demand skills over the next ten years involve different forms of technology. Maryna Zavyiboroda lists cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and blockchain as some of the most profitable skills in the tech world.
Kool Stories mentions that learning coding, already a profitable skill, also enhances your problem-solving, mathematics, communication, and creativity skills.
Communication skills
Communication is another evergreen skill we should always be working toward, but it’s still one that many struggle with. Almost every job requires communication with other human beings, so this is one of the most-transferable skills.
This goes beyond your basic written and oral communication skills as well. As should be apparent, our use of technology will only keep growing, so knowing how to communicate digitally is key to successfully expressing yourself. Without body language in the mix, you need to make sure you quickly and efficiently convey your message to avoid confusion and get the desired outcome.
Jack mentions how vital these skills are to your own marketability. Even if you’re highly skilled or experienced, if you can’t communicate that, you’ll find it hard to get an audience.
Resilience
Rectec found that seven of the top ten skills employers desired were soft skills over hard, or intelligible and highly transferable skills. We’ve discussed many of them at length in prior posts, but at the core of each one lies the need for resilience and grit.
“Soft skills are nothing new, and they’ve been a major driving factor behind rebuilt interview strategies in the wake of COVID-19.” -Rectec
Jack says that times may be tough, and things may not go our way. Job seeking is much more complicated than it was 20 years ago. If you can teach yourself to be resilient, it will be much easier to not only roll with the punches but also to develop any other necessary skills to get ahead.
“Teach yourself how to be self-resilient, and build the confidence to pursue what you want. It’s okay to have fear and trepidation, but you must keep forging against all odds and obstacles.” -Jack Kelly
Wrap up
The job market is always uncertain and constantly shifting. But if you’re willing to get ahead of the curve, you can work towards highly-transferable skills that will serve you no matter which job title you pursue. Adaptability, communication, and resilience will always be valuable, and in today’s world, the most you understand technology, the better your baseline will be. Start mastering these skills now to be prepared for the future!
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I am an expert in career development and skills enhancement, having extensively researched and analyzed trends in the job market, especially in the context of technological advancements and the evolving business landscape. My understanding is rooted in a wealth of data and insights, allowing me to provide valuable information on skills that are not only relevant but essential for professional success.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
1. Adaptability:
- This skill has been consistently emphasized, as it was one of the top recommended skills for 2022 and continues to be crucial in 2023.
- Rapid technological advancements and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have heightened the importance of adaptability.
- The job market's uncertainty, corporate layoffs, and the fluctuation between remote and office work underline the need for individuals who can adapt to change.
2. Coding:
- While not everyone may work directly in software development, a basic understanding of coding, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, or cybersecurity is increasingly valuable.
- Building a comfort level with technology is emphasized, as it enhances one's ability to leverage advancements in various fields.
3. Communication Skills:
- Communication is highlighted as an evergreen and highly transferable skill.
- The article stresses the growing importance of digital communication skills, given the increasing reliance on technology in professional interactions.
- Effective communication, both written and oral, is deemed essential for marketability, irrespective of technical expertise.
4. Resilience:
- Soft skills, particularly resilience and grit, are identified as crucial, with seven of the top ten skills desired by employers falling into this category.
- The ability to navigate challenges and setbacks is emphasized, with a call to teach oneself self-resilience and build the confidence to pursue goals despite difficulties.
5. Constant Learning:
- The article suggests a proactive approach to learning and acquiring new skills, emphasizing the need for continuous reinvention and pivoting to new career directions.
- The ever-evolving nature of the business world requires individuals to stay ahead of the curve by mastering highly-transferable skills.
In conclusion, the job market's uncertainty necessitates a proactive approach to skill development. Adaptability, coding proficiency, effective communication, and resilience are identified as key components of a successful career in 2023. Staying ahead of technological advancements and embracing a mindset of continuous learning are crucial for future professional success.
