5 Best Digital Upskilling Strategies to Help You Succeed in 2023
In today’s fast-paced and data-driven business landscape, quickly adapting and innovating to market changes has become critical to remain relevant and competitive. Digital transformation is an indispensable aspect of any modern business model, enabling organizations to survive and thrive in the digital age. When implemented effectively, digital tools and techniques have the potential to streamline workflows, develop cutting-edge products, optimize budgets, improve customer experiences, and drive revenue growth. Human beings’ work will shift significantly due to new technologies requiring candidates with digital skills. Experts believe that 85% of the jobs available in 2030 have not even been invented yet! Consequently, digital upskilling is vital for your professional development and business growth.
Let’s delve into the pressing need for digital upskilling, its diverse benefits, and its actionable strategies to help you keep up with the ever-changing digital landscape.
The Need for Digital Upskilling
Businesses are moving towards digital transformation and seeking to create new values through digital products, services, and experiences. As a result, spending on digital transformation is increasing massively. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), global spending on digital transformation is projected to reach $3.4 trillion in 2026, with a five-year Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.3%. Furthermore, according to McKinsey, employees with digital skills have become vital to unlocking new revenue streams, reducing costs, and improving employee experience. However, 42% of companies yet to undergo digital transformation report difficulty sourcing the skilled employees they need. As a result, digital upskilling has become essential to navigate the constantly changing technological landscape and keep up with the digital age’s evolving demands.
ALSO READ: Skilling the New Mantra for Talent Mobility
The Benefits of Digital Upskilling
1. Increased Job Opportunities and Earning Potential
The growth of digital technologies has created a high demand for candidates with digital expertise, leading to increased job opportunities and better earning potential across industries. Developing your digital skills can also offer you a wider range of career opportunities and enable you to transition into new roles if necessary.
2. Improved Job Security and Future-Proofing Skills
Whether you’re just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, improving your digital skills can significantly impact your career growth. It can make you more adaptable and flexible in your role, leading to greater job security. By enhancing your digital skills, you can future-proof your career and be better equipped to navigate the constantly evolving technological landscape.
3. Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency in the Workplace
Digital upskilling is essential for employees to work more efficiently and effectively. Employees with good digital skills can also complete tasks faster and with greater accuracy, allowing them to work more efficiently and effectively. Moreover, digital skills help streamline workflows and automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for high-value work.
4. Increased Competitiveness
Developing digital skills has become crucial for long-term success in the job market. Digital upskilling can give you a competitive edge and enable you to offer unique value at the workplace, making you highly attractive to potential employers and allowing you to stand out in your field.
ALSO READ: What Are Upskilling and Reskilling? Benefits, Needs, Challenges, and Solutions
Strategies for Digital Upskilling
1. Assess Your Current Digital Skills
Assessing your current digital skills and identifying areas for improvement is crucial in creating a successful strategy for digital upskilling. To begin, create a list of the technologies and tools you regularly use in your work. These usually include cloud services, social media, communication tools, and software programs. Next, determine your proficiency level in these digital tools and technologies. This assessment will help you identify the areas where you need improvement.
Additionally, consider researching specific digital skills that are in high demand in your field. This will help you determine which skills will most benefit your career growth. A thorough assessment can lead to a targeted upskilling plan focusing on the areas that will benefit your career most.
2. Seek Out Online Courses and Training Programs
Taking online courses and training programs is an excellent way to upskill in digital technology. Invest your time and money in mastering a wide range of digital skills. Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field. Your skills and knowledge will allow you to unlock your career potential, stay relevant in the job market, and increase your earning potential. If you want to upskill, check out Emeritus’ online courses in collaboration with top global experts and universities.
3. Take Advantage of On-the-Job Training
On-the-job training is a great way to learn new digital skills in a practical and hands-on manner. Seek new challenges and projects to help you develop new digital skills. Be open to feedback and guidance from your colleagues and supervisors.
4. Networking With Peers and Mentors in the Digital Field
Networking allows you to connect with mentors, industry experts, and colleagues in your field. These contacts can provide valuable insights, advice, and opportunities for career growth. It can also help you stay up-to-date with new and upcoming industry trends, gain new perspectives, and expand your professional network. This can lead to novel opportunities for career growth.
5. Develop a Personal Learning Plan and Set Goals
To develop your digital skills, creating a personal learning plan is important. This involves outlining the specific courses, resources, and activities you will undertake to improve your digital skills. Make a list of the resources you plan to use and set achievable deadlines for completing each. You can also set measurable goals, such as completing an online course or learning a new software program within a certain period. Monitor your progress regularly to stay on track, and modify your plan if necessary.
Digital Upskilling With Emeritus
Developing your digital skills can provide you with a competitive edge and make you a valuable asset to your employer. To get started on your digital upskilling journey to stay ahead of the curve, consider exploring these online courses offered by Emeritus in collaboration with top universities. Don’t wait to unlock your full potential; advance your career and start learning today!
By Krati Joshi
Write to us at content@emeritus.org
