If you’re looking to build a professional career, there are certain skills that are critically important.
Although some skills and knowledge depend on the particular profession or sector you want to work in, others are universal. There are certain skills that will be advantageous for all professionals to learn in the future.
Why Will Some Skills Be So Important in the Future?
We are living in the era of automation, integrated systems, smart technology, and microcontrollers. Open-source hardware and AI tools can now do many of the tasks that humans used to perform. In the USA alone, it’s predicted that 47% of jobs could be replaced by automated technology.
As the world changes around us, it’s important to look to the future and develop the skills that will be in demand in years to come. This includes the skills necessary to work in an AI-driven world, such as knowing how to operate, manage, and improve these automated systems.
Equally, even established professionals should update their skills to stay relevant in the modern workplace. Luckily, online learning offers executives the opportunity to do so while continuing to work full-time.
Top Professional Skills That Will Set You Up for Success
Financial Literacy
Financial literacy is essentially the ability to understand and effectively manage finances. It involves a range of financial skills including credit management, investing funds, budget planning, and more.
Financial literacy has always been a top skill for business owners and those working in finance. In the future, virtually all professionals will be expected to know at least the basics of financial management. Financial literacy is equally important in your personal life. It is a vital skill for everyone at all levels and across all age groups.
You may not want to dive into a course like an MSc in Corporate Finance unless you plan to go for a role in finance (which is also a great idea), but more general programs such as an MSc in International Business Management, or shorter ones such as the Online Certificate in Corporate Finance, include many of the key aspects of financial literacy.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is no longer strictly the domain of machine learning specialists. Today, AI-driven processes dominate most industries and most professionals have to interact with these programs at some level.
Not to mention that digital transformation has become integral for businesses of all sizes and across all sectors. Business processes continue to evolve and employees’ efficiency and productivity in the future will rely heavily on their understanding of AI.
For some roles, you’ll need not only a basic understanding of AI, but also the intermediate to advanced skills to manage, interact with, and manipulate AI technologies.
Take a look at EDHEC Online MSc in Data Management & Business Analytics if you want to develop your skills in that area.
Coding
It has been a long journey from complex codes to today’s relatively easy-to-learn programming languages. Computer programs have already changed the world, and their pervasiveness across all industries means that coding may soon become an essential professional skill.
Many conventional job holders 20 years ago lacked what are now considered basic computer skills. Likewise, it may be impossible to get a professional job in the future without knowing the likes of Python, JavaScript, or HTML.
This includes sectors not traditionally associated with coding. For example, to work in investment management in the future, it will be highly advantageous to understand Python and machine learning.
Critical Thinking
There is a range of tech-driven skills that will be in demand in the future, but don’t overlook more low-tech ones such as critical thinking. In fact, as organisations become more complex than ever, the problems they face will also become more involved.
To address these issues, you’ll need to be able to think critically, manage risk, and come up with creative solutions. Critical thinking encourages you to come up with out-of-the-box solutions to the problem at hand while encouraging creativity. Organisations are always looking for critical thinkers who can come up with solutions over those who need specific and continual instructions.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Emotional Intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to recognise your own emotions as well as understand those of others. This skill, largely underrated in the past, is now being recognised as essential in virtually every workplace.
Professional environments rely on mutual understanding, communication, and collaboration with one common goal: getting the job done. EQ is the foundation that makes all of these things possible. Emotional Intelligence underpins most interpersonal skills, allowing you to be an exceptional communicator. Additionally, with a high EQ, you are more likely to appreciate constructive criticism and handle conflict well.
Leadership
Leadership skills are essential for everyone – whether you are a manager, aspire to be a manager, or have no management aspirations whatsoever. People at all levels of any organisation need to demonstrate leadership.
Leadership skills are about being encouraging, motivating, all inspirational, all of which are essential to being a team player.
Furthermore, if you display these tendencies early in your career, it will make you stand out from your colleagues and set you on a path to future greatness. As the workplace is set to become more driven and competitive in the future, leadership skills will be more important than ever.
Final Thoughts
In every era, there are certain skills that all employers look for. By developing skills in these areas of future learning, you’ll make sure that your CV stands out from the competition in any sector.
Furthermore, with these key foundational skills, you’ll be better equipped to transition into new industries and the emerging fields of tomorrow.
EDHEC’s courses are packed with skills and knowledge that will be critical in the future.
Take a look at our online courses such as MSc in International Business Management and MSc in Data Management & Business Analytics to develop critical skills for the future.
