“Either move with the times or the times move you.”
The modern business landscape requires more than just embracing AI to thrive, it also requires the implementation of various digital transformation trends. This ensures that the current workforce remains on their toes and up to date with their skills and competencies that meet evolving business needs and latest consumer trends.
If you’re a leader or manager of an organisation, it’s important to equip your employees with the knowledge and skill sets needed to embrace the future of work.
Are employees ready to embrace the future of work?
This is backed up by findings by the Global Workforce of the Future 2024 research by the Adecco Group, which highlights that both skills development and good career prospects are imperative for employers to provide for their employees to strengthen trust and collaboration in meeting current and future challenges.
Employees echo this sentiment. Nearly half of employees (48%) believe that their employers are responsible to prepare them for the future of work, with only 20% feel that it is their own initiative to upskill themselves.
That said, only 23% of employees surveyed have been trained on how to use AI at work and 40% of workers are worried about their long-term job security. Only 11% are confident in being future-ready.
What can employers do to shape a future-ready workforce?
Developing a future-ready workforce requires a deliberate and multifaceted approach. It’s not a one-time initiative but an ongoing commitment woven into the very fabric of your organisation.
Here are 4 ways that you, as a leader or manager of an organisation, can shape your workforce into agile teams:
#1 Invest in learning and development
It is important to identify what your workforce needs not just as a team, but individually, to use their newfound skills to grow your organisation while also benefiting them in terms of honing their expertise.
Implement personalised learning pathways that cater to individual employee needs, skill gaps, and career aspirations. Leverage AI-powered learning platforms that can adapt to an individual’s learning pace and preferred style, offering tailored content and resources.
#2 Foster a culture of innovation
Employers go beyond addressing immediate skill gaps. As key personnel in your organisation, you should ideally be proactive in identifying and investing in skill development initiatives that will be critical in the future of work.
This includes areas such as advanced data analytics, understanding and utilising AI and machine learning tools, enhancing digital literacy across all levels, mastering cloud computing technologies, increasing cybersecurity awareness, and cultivating crucial soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.
#3 Embrace the adoption of technology
Tech isn’t just a tool anymore; it’s the foundation of our future. Leaders must champion its seamless integration, fostering digital fluency and empowering employees to utilise it effectively.
Beyond providing software, offer comprehensive training and ongoing support, transforming potential fear into enthusiastic adoption for enhanced productivity and creativity.
Encourage experimentation, create sharing platforms, and actively seek feedback to unlock new efficiencies.
#4 Focus on employee engagement
A future-ready workforce hinges on its people. Engaged employees readily embrace change and upskilling. Prioritise transparent communication about the future and employee roles.
Foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mentorship. Recognise adaptability and contributions to innovation. Investing in well-being and an inclusive environment cultivates a committed workforce ready for the future.
