In an era defined by rapid technological advancements, it is crucial for professionals to continuously upgrade their skills to remain relevant in whatever industry they work.
Digitalisation and automation are fundamentally transforming the way we work.
This will have a profound effect on the tasks we perform and the skills that are required.
Barbara Holland defines the digital age as a time when an increasing number of human activities are taking or have already taken a digital form.
One cannot deny that the digital age has taken over and transformed industries, created new job roles demanding individuals to adapt and evolve.
With the proliferation of generative artificial intelligence (AI), a lot of people in the world are worried about being replaced in their workplaces.
However, the coming in of AI will not completely replace human beings, thus the need to upgrade yourself to be at a place that you will not be replaced because what humans create and produce ultimately serves other human beings.
The World Economic Forum (WEF), Future of Jobs Survey 2023 shows that generative AI has received particular attention recently, with claims that 19% of the workforce could have over 50% of their tasks automated by AI.
Looking back, you will find out that typing was a skill reserved for administrative roles.
But today, it is an essential skill for anyone striving to excel in the digital age as one can use their cell phones or computers to simply type whatever he or she wants.
Someone recently shared two pictures on social media, one had a cameraman who was shooting a film in a helicopter and the other one was a picture of a drone shooting a film in the sky.
This simply shows how technology is changing the way that people used to work and replacing other people’s jobs.
Skills acquired in initial education are very important, but they are becoming obsolete more rapidly as technological breakthroughs speed up.
Curriculums offered in schools and colleges are outdated especially in Zimbabwe and other African nations.
New professions such as digital marketing, data analysis, cybersecurity, AI, and user experience design have emerged due to technological advancements and are in demand in today's job market.
With technology evolving at an exponential pace, it is vital to identify the skills that are in high demand.
Skills such as problem-solving and communication, curiosity, adaptability, and emotional agility are becoming more important thus the need to upgrade yourself in this era.
However, these skills are not only confined to the Information Communication Technologies (ICT) industry only, but they also go beyond other industries such engineering, agriculture, health, business etc.
Research the trends and advancements shaping your industry and explore emerging areas.
Moreover, digging for positions that are projected to grow, as well as key skills required for these roles.
The ability to learn independently, working out what you need to know and where to find that knowledge is the way to go in this age.
This is an ongoing process in knowledge-based work because the knowledge base is constantly changing.
While some may join short courses that are offered by experts in different fields you can also use the internet to learn new and improve your skills at your pace.
The internet has a wide variety of learning material about new equipment, new ways of doing things or learning who are the people you need to know to get the job done in different sectors.
“How to…” videos which are usually found on YouTube also give instructions as well as help people how to do something they do not know.
Staying informed about the latest industry news and developments, newsletters, podcasts, and YouTube channels that cover the latest insights, trends, and best practices in your industry as well as continuous flow of information will keep you informed about the changes happening around your industry.
To sum up, remaining relevant in the digital age requires a proactive approach to continuous upskilling. By identifying in-demand skills, building a personal learning network, practicing hands-on learning, staying updated with industry news, and embracing lifelong learning, people can thrive in this ever-changing landscape.
The key is to stay adaptable, embrace change and commit to the journey of lifelong learning and by investing in your skills you position yourself as an asset in the digital age.
- Donald Nyandoro is a journalist, who writes in his own capacity. For feedback email: donaldnyandoro10@gmail.com or call 0733667708 and X @DonNyandoro