The skills and knowledge to do a job continue to evolve each year. As the world and technology evolve, so do the types of skills candidates need. One of the things we keep track of as a Toronto recruitment agency are the most in-demand skills employers are looking for in job candidates. A lot changed in 2020, and this has had a direct impact on the types of skills employers are looking for when interviewing people.
The World Economic Forum estimates that 50% of all employees will need some form of reskilling by 2025 to keep up with technological disruption.
“We have the tools at our disposal. The bounty of technological innovation which defines our current era can be leveraged to unleash human potential,” says the Forum’s founder and executive chairman, Professor Klaus Schwab.
“We have the means to reskill and upskill individuals in unprecedented numbers, to deploy precision safety nets which protect displaced workers from destitution, and to create bespoke maps which orient displaced workers towards the jobs of tomorrow where they will be able to thrive.”
But what about for 2021? Many of the most in-demand skills for the future are in demand right now. Not surprising to anyone is the focus on technology and problem solving. You should consider adding the following skills to your resume this year:
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1. Cloud Computing
COVID-19 showed us just how important cloud computing can be for your organization. Companies need people who understand and know how to use the cloud to work. Expect there to be more emphasis placed on cloud-based solutions in 2021 and beyond, even if people eventually migrate back to working in the office.
2. Data Analytics
This is a skill that seems to appear on “top skills lists” every year, and for good reason. Companies continue to increasingly rely on data to steer strategic decision making. Data analysts, managers, and those who understand how to use data analytics within their role (sales, marketing, retail, tech) will be in high demand.
3. Digital Marketing
The pandemic forced many companies to expedite their shift to online. Those who already had an online presence had to take measures to reinforce their digital presence. Software development, web design, social media, and search engine optimization skills are needed so companies can continue to grow their brand online.
4. Problem Solving
2020 highlighted the importance of having people on your team who can come up with unique solutions to new and emerging situations. Our recruiting agency recognized companies that have successfully managed to ride out the wave of the pandemic figured out how to solve problems. Those who struggled to sustain the business during this time have come to realize the important role critical thinking plays. Expect companies to seek out people with strong problem-solving skills.
5. Independence
Call it what you want – remote work, self management, independent work – people need to be able to get things done when they are at the office or working at home. Companies are looking for people who can get things done with minimal instruction, do not require hand-holding, and will get the job done.
6. Project Management
Keeping your employees focused and on task is vital. In a time when they are spread out and working from many locations, having a strong and effective project manager is essential. You need employees to be agile, strong communicators and highly organized to manage workflows and meet expectations.
7. Change Management
There are a lot of unknowns within organizations today. One thing is for certain is top-performing companies are strong when it comes to managing change. The pandemic thrust significant change on companies at an unprecedented speed. More change is to come. Companies need employees who can help with managing this change amid uncertainty.
The above are some of the many in-demand skills we are seeing more often in job descriptions and in communications with our hiring partners. If you are looking to add some new skills to your resume, start with this list.
Read More From Our Toronto Recruitment Agency Blog
How the End of COVID Will Affect Recruiting in 2021
What Can We Expect From the Post-Pandemic Workplace?
5 Hiring Trends to Look Out For in 2021
IQ PARTNERS is an Executive Search & Recruitment firm supporting clients across the country. We help companies hire better, hire less & retain more. We have specialist teams of recruiters in Executive Search / Board & C-Suite, Technology, Media, Digital & Marketing, Accounting & Finance, Financial Services & Insurance, Cannabis, Startup, Data Science, Consumer, eCommerce & Retail, Operations & HR, Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Engineering, Legal & Professional Services, Pharmaceutical & Life Sciences, Non-Profit & Sustainability, and Sales. IQ PARTNERS has its head office in Toronto and operates internationally via Aravati Global Search Network. Click here to view current job openings and to register with us.
