The future is here. Technology is driving our progress at a rapid pace, driven by advances in artificial intelligence. Just look at modern conveniences, from self-checkout lines at the grocery store to chatbots used for online customer service. Many jobs are slowly being replaced by robots as they become automated. There is not much that can (or should) be done to stop this natural progression.
Of course, you cannot compete with machines. They are faster, more precise, and most importantly, they don’t need to work in shifts. Sure, humans aren’t as efficient as machines, but there are other ways we can make ourselves relevant.
The best thing is to learn new skills that will make you a valuable asset to your future employer. Now, you might be thinking, how can I know what job skills are going to be necessary in the future?
Based on the current trends and flow of the market, there are also 10 skills all of us will need to be successful in 2020 and beyond. The human brain is still extremely difficult for machines to properly replicate, so the skills we need like complex problem solving and cognitive flexibility require deep thinking.
1. Complex Problem Solving
The skill to see relationships between industries and craft creative solutions to problems that are yet to appear is a must to keep up with AI machines.
2. Critical Thinking
People who can turn data into insightful interpretations will be sought after due to the complexity and interconnectedness of various fields like computer science, engineering and biology.
3. Creativity
The quality of randomness and the ability to build something out of ideas is a skill that will pay off now and in the future.
4. People Management
Robots may acquire analytical and mathematical skills but they can’t replace humans in leadership and managerial roles that require people skills.
5. Coordinating with others
Effective communication and team collaboration skills will be a top demand among job candidates in any industry.
6. Emotional Intelligence
Qualities that relate to emotional intelligence such as empathy and curiosity will be a big consideration factor for hiring managers of the future.
7. Judgment and Decision-Making
The ability to condense vast amounts of data, with the help of data analytics, into insightful interpretations and measured decisions is a skill that will be useful in the information age.
8. Service Orientation
People who know the importance of offering value to clients in the form of service and assistance will be in demand as businesses would want to provide solutions to the problems of society.
9. Negotiation
The ability to negotiate with businesses and individuals to come up with a win-win situation is a skill that will be needed to survive in affected industries.
10. Cognitive Flexibility
The ability to switch between different personas to accommodate the challenge at hand will be important to be successful in combined industries.
5 top industry sectors in 2020
1. Technology and Computational Thinking
2. Caregiving
3. Social Intelligence and New Media Literacy
4. Lifelong Learning
5. Adaptability and Business Acumen
10 most in-demand jobs in 2020
1. Data analysts
2. Medical technicians, Physical therapists and workplace ergonomics experts
3. Sales and Marketing Specialists
4. Customer service representatives
5. Management analysts
6. Software developers and computer programmers
7. Veterinarians
8. Product designers and creatives
9. Teachers and trainers
10. Accountants and auditors
