Technology skills are tops
We can divide the tech skills that many companies need today into two groups. The first group contains the skills that most professionals can easily acquire either on their own or on the job, including the ability to navigate popular collaboration platforms and apps that have reached new prominence in the COVID-19 era of remote work.
What about specific roles where these skills are valued? Here are just two examples: Many companies with remote or hybrid workforces seek administrative staff who can manage videoconferencing and cloud-based collaboration tools. And law firms and corporate legal departments need legal support staff who are experienced in e-filing and setting up virtual hearings.
The second group of technology skills in demand requires deeper and more specialized expertise. These skills include:
Web development — Companies need front-end, back-end and full-stack developers to help them build and maintain websites that stand out from the crowd. If your passion for the web outstrips your programming chops, you may still have marketable skills as a low-code web developer. In this role, you’ll use rapid development tools like WordPress to deliver applications and customer experiences.
Cloud computing — “It’s in the cloud” is a phrase you hear more than ever now as businesses move from traditional IT frameworks to remote servers for data storage. This shift is leading to an increased need for professionals specializing in cloud computing, such as cloud architects, cloud administrators and cloud engineers.
Machine learning — Machine learning is how computers and algorithms, with the aid of developers, “learn” to complete tasks. Think of when you ask Siri for driving directions or tell Alexa to turn off the lights. As this technology becomes more commonplace, demand for roles like data and software engineers, machine learning developers, and data scientists grows.While the skills in demand that are described above relate specifically to many tech roles, these skills can also be valuable for jobs in other fields. That includes marketing and creative and accounting and finance, which are increasingly engaged in digital business and in need of tech-savvy professionals. Also, companies pursuing digital transformation initiatives benefit from having a digitally minded workforce.
Soft skills in demand
When you think about job skills in demand today, chances are you immediately think of technical skills such as those mentioned above. However, the truth is that the character traits and interpersonal abilities known as “soft skills” have always been a significant differentiator for job candidates.
In the age of remote and hybrid work, when skills like adaptability and collaboration have come to the fore, employers need workers with a solid mix of hard and soft skills. With that in mind, consider developing these soft skills to help advance your career:
Communication — Can you convey information in a two-line email where others take two paragraphs? Can you appease an irate customer through your tone of voice or close a sale by asking the right questions at the right time? If so, you’re just the kind of person many hiring managers are searching for.
Problem-solving — Can you think fast and act quickly? In your resume, describe how you’ve faced challenges head-on and emphasize that you are not afraid to think creatively and critically, including when under pressure.
Teamwork — Employees with superb collaborative skills tend to accomplish tasks faster and more efficiently than those reluctant to share ideas or responsibilities.
Dependability — Companies are looking for candidates they know can get the job done, no matter where or when they are working. Show that you’re self-sufficient, resourceful and able to meet deadlines, whether working remotely or at the office.
