Tech Skill Gap
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an area where there are many job possibilities and scope for the younger generation, along with the emerging technologies that are happening. According to NASSCOM, by 2021, India will require a huge amount of AI and BDA professionals. But with the current rate of growth in this area, it is predicted that we will have just half of what is required with the knowledge of these skills by 2021, which will eventually lead us to a massive skill gap. This is the same case with many other areas that need new-age skills like cloud computing, analytics, robotics, machine learning, etc.
Changes and advancements in AI, robotics, and other similar emerging technologies are happening rapidly in shorter cycles than usual, which is bringing tremendous changes in the nature of jobs across different sectors. While many roles are becoming dispensable and unnecessary due to automation, a large number of other vacancies are also being created for people with skills in the digital field who can survive and actually prosper in this new and advanced environment. We now need to recognize this change that is happening and strengthen the skills required for the uprising jobs.
The new mantra that every professional should live by from here on is lifelong learning to have a successful career because of the advancement taking place at such a rapid pace. The learning should not stop. To future-proof careers and climb the corporate ladder faster, learning new things and skills should happen constantly.
Some of the few things that help professionals identify this lack of current skills and bridge the gap are –
Map out a Career Path
The first step to moving forward in this journey is for a professional to look where they currently are in career and skill. Identify and plan a career path strategically that they wish to pursue, keeping in mind their capabilities, interest, and prospects. Looking at how things are moving and changing at such high speed, it may be impossible to be sure of all the steps needed to pursue the career path. However, having a sense of direction can make a huge difference, and the gap will eventually be bridged as one moves forward. It is necessary to follow through with leaders in the field, read related blogs, engage with like-minded people, ask questions, and keep updated with current news to help set realistic goals that will be rewarding.
Engage with your employers
To stay updated with the current advancement, one must engage with others in their organizations to understand their own requirements and shortcomings. Having a conversation with their immediate bosses, seniors, or HRs will help them understand the company’s evolving skill requirements. Evaluating the kinds of projects undertaken by the organization as well as the competitors is essential to get an idea about the evolving market trends. Many organizations and companies have internal learning programs designed with an awareness of the evolving skill requirements. Professionals should take the responsibility to enroll people that aligned with their own career path to strengthen their position in the organization.
Recognize the skill gaps
At this point, a professional will probably have a well-planned career path that they want to follow and will be set to work towards the list of skills required to be added to the existing skillset to achieve their goals. While they would already have some skills with them for their previous jobs, there will also be a list of required skills to move forward. It is advisable to sit with a career counselor or someone they look up to understand where they are and how they should learn each of the skills. It is essential to know which one to give priority and which ones can wait for some time. One can get guidance from professionals who have a good understanding of the career path. Time is important, and it should not be spent learning a skill that you do not need immediately and ignore the urgent one.
Choose the right upskilling partner
After knowing what skills to learn and which to learn first, it is time for the professionals to search and understand how and where they will learn. Speaking to friends, colleagues, seniors who have learned new skills to know their experience and how they went about it is crucial. You will have an idea about what you to do. One of the most common ways to learn in this advanced era is through an online program by leading ed-tech companies. Professionals should look out for such programs offered by various platforms and carefully evaluate them to figure out which one will suit best for them. Look for reviews left by ex-learners who have taken the course to know if it provides the service as claimed by the companies. You should also understand the career transitions that will probably take place once you take up the program. Once you have followed the mentioned steps, you can now go ahead and select a learning partner.
Technical skills are the abilities, skills, and knowledge needed to perform a task that is practical, often related to mechanical, mathematical, information technology, or scientific.
Big Data Analysis
Almost every industry relies on data, whether it is about their clients or their product’s success. While it is easy for companies to collect data, they need employees who can collect, organize, and then interpret them.
Coding and Programming
Even though the jobs you’re applying for are not necessarily for a “coder” if you have some coding experience, there will some benefits. Being able to code and understand many programming languages will make you a strong candidate for many jobs.
Project Management
Project management is crucial for most technical projects. It generally requires using complex programs and systems, which aren’t easy to learn. A good project manager means being a good leader, assign tasks, and measuring each project’s success.
Social Media Management & Digital Marketing
Often referred to as content marketing, with this skill, it is beneficial to look for jobs in public relations, web development, marketing, or anything related to digital marketing.
Technical Writing
Jobs that involve written communication often require you to explain complicated things in a way that is easier to understand. Your job might include sending messages to clients or write press releases, web content, or manuals for clients. Being able to communicate complex ideas in easy language will make you stand out in many jobs.
