Adapt or perish: a guide to upskilling in the digital age

The world we live in is ever evolving. The latest industrial revolution is driven by digital transformation. From information communication technologies, and social networks to artificial intelligence and augmented reality innovations. We live in a state of flux. And while many companies across the world are rapidly adopting new digital technologies, employees constantly need to adapt to new ways of working.

Research has shown that in the last couple of years, companies have spent billions, if not trillions of US dollars on technology investments, yet productivity did not improve drastically. In fact, costs escalated with little or no returns. The reason could be that employees are either unable or unwilling to interact with and use technology. As a result, companies now look for people who can interact and interplay with digital technology to improve their business strategy and optimise ROI on technology spend. Essentially, upskilling is no longer just a technical training expense but an investment for the future.

Why is upskilling important?

• Competence: We live in a time of intricate tools and high-speed technologies. Digital transformation pervades every sector of employment. Improving your digital literacy will make you competent to address new challenges.

• Employability: Adaptability and agility are key. More companies are requiring assessments for digital readiness when recruiting. You may become irrelevant if you refuse to embrace technology.

• Future workplace: As the world evolves and tools of trade become more complex, the demand for high performance will continuously escalate. You need to be future-fit to comfortably navigate this demanding landscape.

• Growth opportunities: The world of work is an open market; new developments are always on the horizon; companies constantly need cuttingedge talent to take advantage of opportunities and personal development is a key driver for both employee satisfaction and career advancement.

Upskilling is not a choice but a must

1. Sharpen the skills you already possess. Both ‘soft’ skills and ‘hard’ skills; the soft skills have to do with your behaviour and character, the hard skills are acquired technical competencies.

2. Actively expand your knowledge. This could mean learning about innovation in hydraulic technology if you are in the manufacturing sector or new design software if you are in the arts.

3. Be open-minded, practice being agile by constantly considering new and innovative ideas. Do something out of your comfort zone regularly –this flexes the brain and keeps you young!

A sustainable career depends on constant upskilling. It should be a way of life.

AIMS International is a network of Executive Search and Talent Management firms operating in more than 50 countries around the globe. Contact Arthur Nkuna, our Partner based in Gauteng, at arthur@aimsinternational.co.za or call our SA team at +27 21 001 0070.