The skills organizations require to compete in their industry change over time. Technology, AI, automation and the reliance on digital tools have certainly caused disruption. All recruitment agencies in Toronto will say that skill gaps are one of the biggest challenges for employers today. There is an increasing gap between the skills their current employees have and the skills organizations need now and in the future to be successful. So, companies are faced with a choice of upskilling, refocusing recruitment to include these new skills or a combination of both.
In a previous blog, we talked about The Most In-Demand Career Skills for 2024, here we’ll discuss research about the industries with the biggest skill gaps and the top skills employers struggle to find. We’ll talk about:
- The industries in the greatest need of skill upgrades
- The top 3 skills companies desperately need
- Other important skills employers need
What Industries Are In The Greatest Need of Skill Upgrades?
All industries are in need of skill upgrades to some degree. The emergence of new ways to do business will always affect the type of skills companies desire from employees and job candidates. Research from Zety, found the following industries are impacted the most by my skill gaps and require skill upgrades:
- Healthcare and life sciences: 77%
- Consumer goods and services: 76%
- Information technology: 76%
- Transport, logistics, and automotive: 76%
- Industrials and materials: 75%
- Communication services: 73%
- Financial and real estate: 72%
- Energy and utilities: 71%
What Are The Top 3 Skills Companies Desperately Need?
According to research, leaders expressed three skills to be the most in demand. The following three skills are at the top of the list of skills companies desperately need to be successful – digital, cognitive, and interpersonal skills. Here’s a breakdown of the research findings:
1. Digital and technical skills
There’s no question that companies will only become further reliant on technology to operate. The need for technical skills will become more specific as AI and automation continue to evolve. Here are the top digital skills:
- Data analysis and project management (44% of leaders polled)
- AI & machine learning (36%)
- Software engineering skills (36%)
- Cybersecurity skills (31%)
2. Cognitive skills
As new ways of doing business emerge, new solutions will be required. Companies need people who can think critically, solve unique issues, and adapt to change. Here are the top cognitive skills:
- Critical thinking (57%)
- Problem solving (49%)
- Adaptability (43%)
3. Interpersonal skills
Nothing new here. Companies always have a need for great communicators and individuals who are excellent collaborators. Top interpersonal skills are:
- Collaboration and teamwork (51%)
- Communication skills (46%)
What Are Other Important Skills Employers Need To Be Successful? Here’s 6 More:
Skills gaps can exist in many areas of the organization. The gaps that exist will vary based on your industry, type of business, and specifics related to your business. Our recruiters have identified 6 additional skills that employers will need to find in employees to have success in the coming years:
- Leadership and Team Management: Even non-managerial roles benefit from leadership skills. Employers have a need for individuals who can take initiative, inspire teams, and contribute to a positive work environment. You can never have too much leadership.
- Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Often overlooked, emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills, is crucial for team dynamics, customer relations, and leadership.
- Creativity and Innovation: The ability to be different can be a key difference-maker in business. Employers need employees who can think outside the box, generate fresh ideas, and drive innovation to keep their businesses competitive.
- Time Management and Organizational Skills: Efficiency and productivity are key to business success. Professionals who can manage their time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines are highly sought after.
- Negotiation and Persuasion: Branching off from communication, being able to influence, negotiate, and build relationships is a valuable skill, especially in sales, management, and customer service roles.
- Cultural Awareness and Diversity Sensitivity: With globalization, understanding different cultures and working effectively in diverse teams is a growing necessity in the workplace.
By developing these skills, job seekers can enhance their employability and stand out in a competitive job market. Employers who invest in training and development programs can also bridge the skills gap and build stronger teams for the future.
A Final Word About Skills Employers Need in 2025
As industries continue to evolve with advancements in technology, AI, and automation, the demand for new skills will only intensify. Employers face the challenge of addressing skill gaps by either upskilling their existing workforce or adapting their recruitment strategies to find talent with the necessary expertise. While digital, cognitive, and interpersonal skills are among the most sought-after, additional competencies such as leadership, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness are also essential for long-term success. Organizations that proactively invest in skill development and talent acquisition will be better positioned to remain competitive in an ever-changing business landscape.
More Expert Insights On The Skills Employers Need
Want to Keep Up? Develop These Skills of the Future
How to Help Your Employees Upskill (Hint: It’s Not Another Training)
Nervous About Losing Your Job to AI? Consider These Skills AI Can’t Replicate
