How to future proof your skill set

What does the future hold for the world of work, and how can you keep your skill set relevant for the developments in the job market? According to the Good Things Foundation, 6 million people are currently employed in occupations that are likely to either disappear or change rapidly by 2030. To be sure you will have a role in the workplace of the future, there are a few areas to focus on.

Technology skills:

You don’t need to be a software developer, fluent in every coding language going. If you are – congratulations, these are highly credible skills that will continue to be sought after.

But most people tread the broad space between ‘turning it off and on again’ and being an accredited Python engineer (FYI – if you’re the former, the latter has nothing to do with snakes).

For your skill set to be future proof, it is worth investing time and energy in improving your technical ability.

This might be working through some of the fantastic Excel tutorials on YouTube.

It might be attending a workshop laid on by your employer. If you’re already proficient, you might want to fund an accredited qualification to really improve your employability.

If technology is a real challenge for you, there are many charity funded programmes available to coach you through the basics.

‘Soft’ skills:

These skills are deceptively named but will be more relevant than ever in a job market where computers and technology replace some of the workforce.

The scope of soft skills is broad – from leadership and problem solving to communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution.

Every industry requires people with these skills and they shouldn’t be underestimated. Focus on the areas you’re strongest at and build on them over time.

You will naturally excel in a job market when these skills become real strengths for you.

Creative skills:

While life in a creative career path can have its drawbacks – it is often freelance, uncertain and depends on the commissioning of wider projects that may not always go ahead – one thing is sure, and that is that creative careers will be future proof.

Whether you’re a classically trained pianist working on a film soundtrack or a graphic designer making a client a new set of logos, your expertise is often niche and hard to replace.

It might be that you’re reliant on commissions or working for a large organisation – rest assured, there will always be a requirement for these skills.

Creative input will always be required in the corporate world. So, maintain your portfolio and be willing to be inventive with your specialism.

So, how are you going to evolve your skills for the future? Two things remain crucial: to have an open mind and a willingness to learn.

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