Rule #20. Upskilling Won’t Stop.

Skills gaps will only get larger!

I want to take you back to an article I wrote for HRDQ-U last year. We dove deep into the future of work, focusing on the latest insights from the World Economic Forum, which suggests that 44% of workers need to reskill or upskill their core capabilities within the next five years. Trust me, this isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity if you want to stay ahead. And I want to remind you of the top ten critical skills identified by the World Economic Forum that are on the rise. Let’s break them down with some real-life examples.

1. Creative Thinking

Let’s talk about creative thinking. In a world where AI is doing more and more, what sets us apart is our ability to come up with fresh ideas. I see immediately these days when team use AI before their brain. If you use AI incorrectly it will only make you a more square thinker. On another hand, machines can’t match our ability to innovate, and that’s why creativity is becoming a top priority. True creativity. 

2. Analytical Thinking

Sure, AI can crunch numbers faster than we ever could, but here’s the catch: AI can show you what’s happening, but it takes human brains to figure out why. Take, for example, a sales drop in a product line. AI might point out the numbers, but it’s up to you to analyze the context and decide on the next steps. It’s this combination of data and human insight that really makes things move.

3. Technological Literacy

We’ve reached a point where understanding digital tools is just as essential as knowing how to read and write. My mom, for instance—every time she needs something translated or needs to find information, I used to help her. But now, I push her to use ChatGPT. Not because I don’t want to help, but because I want her to be self-sufficient and adapt to the tech world we live in. The same goes for the workplace—embracing technology is a must if you want to keep up.

4. Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

Ever noticed how the most successful people never stop learning? I’ve seen it time and again. Whether it’s through taking online courses, attending workshops, or just reading up on the latest trends, those who stay curious and committed to learning are the ones who adapt quickly and stay ahead. Now it’s also about trying all new AI tools. Caution: it could be overwhelming. Tested myself. Still, lifelong learning isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about staying competitive.

5. Resilience, Flexibility, and Agility

Think back to the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies that were able to quickly pivot to remote work, shift their business models, and adapt to new market demands didn’t just survive—they thrived. The ones that couldn’t? They struggled, and some never recovered. This ability to adapt, bounce back from setbacks, and stay agile in the face of uncertainty isn’t just a bonus anymore; it’s your survival kit. It’s what will set you as a superhero in a world that’s constantly changing.

6. Systems Thinking

As businesses become more complex, understanding how all the pieces fit together is crucial. Let’s talk about systems thinking in the context of modern employee learning plans. If you’re responsible for designing a company-wide training program that integrates both technical skills and soft skills across various departments, on the surface, it might seem like you’re just setting up a series of courses. But with systems thinking, you’re looking at how these training programs affect and interact with other areas of the business.

For instance, a new software training course for the IT department might require coordination with HR to ensure employees have time allocated to complete it. It also impacts the helpdesk team, as they might need to field more questions initially as employees adapt to the new software. Furthermore, if the software is critical for customer-facing roles, the sales and customer service teams need tailored versions of the training to focus on the customer impact. The IT department's training isn’t just an isolated event—it’s interconnected with timelines, productivity levels, and customer satisfaction across the entire organization. Systems thinking allows you to anticipate these connections, ensuring that the training plan is aligned with broader business goals and minimizes disruptions.

7. AI and Big Data

How to decode AI and big data skill? Take A/B testing, for example. You can use AI to analyze customer behavior and test different versions of a webpage, email, or ad to see which one performs better. AI can quickly sift through data, but the insight comes from knowing what to test and how to interpret the results. A company might discover, for instance, that a small tweak in the color of a "Buy

Now" button leads to a significant increase in sales. This kind of nuanced decision-making, guided by AI and big data, is where you can bring real value that machines can’t.

8. Motivation and Self-Awareness

AI can handle repetitive tasks, but motivation and self-awareness? That’s all on us. Oh, the whole rule #19 is about that. Knowing what drives you and being aware of your strengths and weaknesses can make all the difference. For instance, a leader who’s in tune with their team’s needs and their own capabilities is better equipped to navigate challenges and inspire others. In a world increasingly driven by technology, these human qualities are more valuable than ever.

9. Talent Management

No more classic HR and laid back management. The real game-changer is how AI enables personalized development plans. Imagine being able to tailor learning paths, project assignments, and even mentorship opportunities to align with each employee’s unique strengths and career goals.

10. Service Orientation and Customer Service

Let me tell you, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been stuck in an AI chat loop with no way to connect to a real human. It’s beyond frustrating. AI might be efficient, but it often lacks the empathy and nuanced understanding that only a human can provide. And here’s the thing—I’m not alone in this. As AI continues to take over basic customer service roles, I believe we’re going to see a shift where human customer support becomes a luxury experience. People will start to value and even pay more for the ability to speak with a real person who can understand their concerns, offer personalized solutions, and connect on a human level. The future of customer service will be a blend, where AI handles routine inquiries, but the real value will come from the human touch that only a skilled customer service representative can provide. In a world increasingly dominated by technology, that personal connection is going to be what sets companies apart.

The message is clear: Upskilling won’t stop, and neither should you. The skills gaps will only get larger, and the only way to stay relevant is to continuously invest in your learning and development. 

Don’t wait until you’re left behind.