What are the top skills employers look for?

In this article, Elitez Group—a regional human resource company that provides reliable full-suite HR solutions for industries such as Healthcare, IT, Logistics, F&B, FMCG, Green Infrastructure, Environment and social, Security, and Government Services—explores the in-demand skills employers are seeking and how to navigate the dynamic workforce effectively.

As we venture further into the latter half of 2024, the landscape of work undergoes constant transformation propelled by technological advancements, market flux, and evolving societal norms. In our relentless pursuit to unravel the keys to success amidst this dynamic market, we have conducted in-depth research and sought insights from industry leaders. This article aims to provide guidance for both employers and employees seeking by shedding light on valuable knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in 2024 and beyond.

Top 3 Skills Employers Seek in 2024

According to LinkedIn’s 2024 survey, the top in-demand skills are:

1. Communication

Effective communication has managed to maintain its top position for two years in a row, indicating its increasing importance. This trend can be attributed to the rise of hybrid work models, the integration of AI, and the emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the workplace.  As companies adopt hybrid work arrangements and utilize AI technologies, the need for clear and efficient communication has become even more crucial. Moreover, in diverse and inclusive work environments, strong communication skills are essential for fostering collaboration, understanding, and cohesion among team members.

“ Current newer generation of workforce communicate mostly via social messaging platforms, lacking real verbal communication. This has compensated on body languages, social ethics or base ability to continue a professional or business conversation.” – Jackson Lim, Director of Elitez & Associates

2. Customer Service

In today’s competitive market, where customers have numerous options, providing excellent customer service can be a key differentiator. It helps in building positive relationships with customers, increasing their trust in the brand, and encouraging repeat business. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend the business to others, leading to organic growth through word-of-mouth marketing. In the digital age, where customer feedback can quickly spread through online reviews and social media, delivering exceptional customer service is essential for maintaining a positive reputation and competitive edge.

3. Leadership

Leadership skills are more crucial than ever due to the rapidly changing business landscape. Leaders are needed to navigate complexity, make decisions amidst uncertainty, and adapt to new technologies and trends. Furthermore, today’s workforce seeks inspiring leaders who value their input and growth.  Finally, the rise of global and virtual teams necessitates strong communication and collaboration skills to bridge cultural divides and lead effectively in a dispersed environment. In short, honing your leadership abilities is a smart investment for navigating the demands of the modern workplace.

Beyond LinkedIn: In-Demand Technical Skills

On another hand, leaders from Elitez Group have also highlighted three technical skills which they deemed important to have:

The Skills Gap and the Bridge to Future-Proofing Your Career

After identifying the top in-demand skills amongst employers, securing these coveted skills isn’t always a straightforward path. Many companies face a significant skills gap, where the desired skill sets don’t align with the current workforce capabilities. This gap presents significant challenges for both employers and employees. Companies struggle to find qualified candidates, while individuals might find their current skill sets no longer meet employer demands.

Fortunately, there are numerous strategies to bridge this skills gap. 

Here are some key approaches:

1. Upskilling: Focuses on building upon your existing skill set to stay relevant. This might involve learning new software functionalities, improving communication skills, or deepening your understanding of industry trends.
2. Reskilling: Encompasses acquiring entirely new skill sets necessary for a career change. This could involve learning a new software program, mastering a new language, or gaining a completely new skill set for a different job role.
3. Tailored Program: Consider exploring structured programs designed specifically to address the skills gap to reach the specific requirements of a particular role or industry. One of these includes Career Conversion Program (CCP). 

CCP includes:

• Focused Curriculum: Tailored specifically to PMETs, bridging the gap between their technical skills and the requirements of business support roles.
• Practical Experiences: Provides hands-on on the job training experience and mentorship to prepare PMETs for success in their new role.
• Targeted Skill Development: Equips participants with at least one essential digital skill to thrive in today’s technology-driven business environment.

Embracing Change and Staying Competitive

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, understanding and acquiring in-demand skills is crucial for both employers and employees. From mastering essential communication and leadership skills to embracing advanced technical competencies like data analysis, cybersecurity, and AI applications engineering, the landscape of required skills is constantly shifting. By staying ahead of these trends and continuously upskilling, individuals can ensure their relevance and value in the workforce. For employers, investing in comprehensive training programs and fostering a culture of continuous learning will be key to bridging skill gaps and driving organizational success. As we navigate this dynamic workforce, the synergy between developing soft skills and leveraging technical expertise will define the future of work and drive sustained achievements in the industry.

For more information on Elitez Group’s comprehensive HR services and Career Conversion Program (CCP), email: hrgogetter@elitez.asia

This is a Money Playschool x Elitez Group collaboration.

The article “Don’t Get Left Behind: Mastering the Skills Employers Need” was first published here.

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