Top 10 in demand skills in today's workforce

Top skills in demand in the workforce

To push your career forward, you will need to pursue in-demand skills to expand your knowledge and capabilities and to set yourself apart from other candidates. To help you remain a competitive job candidate, here are some of the most in-demand skills you should look to develop:

1. Artificial Intelligence

Due to the growing number of companies that want to streamline their workflows and derive insightful data while minimizing costs, experts in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are in high demand. These professionals usually handle the development of AI. They build, test and implement AI models, as well as maintain the organization’s underlying AI infrastructure. If you want to develop these skills, you’ll need a strong foundation in software design, statistics, coding, engineering and similar fields.

2. Cloud and distributed computing

Skills in cloud computing are in great demand due to the increasing number of companies moving business functions to the cloud—the global network of remote servers. Cloud engineers are the people responsible for developing and managing these cloud computing systems so end users can easily store files and back up their data.

Cloud computing requires technical skills to perform migrations, as well as the ability to negotiate terms with the cloud service providers, ensure data security and implement best practices throughout the process.

3. Sales

Sales is ultimately what keeps most companies profitable, which means having sales leadership experience will give you opportunities in many different industries. Sales leadership is the ability to close business deals and coach others. Outstanding sales leaders are strategic, looking at the overall view of an issue and identifying patterns to be improved or areas of opportunity to boost revenue. Key characteristics of high-performing sales leaders include excellent communication skills, the ability to motivate, a drive to achieve results and skills in coaching and team building.

4. Data Analysis

Companies look for employees who are great at investigating a problem and finding the ideal solution in an efficient and timely manner. That’s why people with strong analytical skills are in high demand in many industries. Analytical skills refer to your ability to understand and analyze a problem or situation and make a decision about what actions to take next. Developing this skill not only helps improve your work but also helps you achieve company goals.

You may already use analytical skills in your day-to-day work. Brainstorming, detecting patterns, interpreting data, observing, theorizing, integrating new information and making decisions based on multiple factors and options available all require the use of analytical skills.

5. Blockchain

Companies of all types and sizes are increasingly leveraging blockchain—the technology that underlies cryptocurrencies like bitcoin—to reduce costs, cash flow discrepancies and transaction processing time. Blockchain helps companies to coordinate with each other and make transactions smoothly without interference from banks and other financial institutions.

6. SEO/SEM marketing

Many companies are realizing the importance of digital marketing and are regularly looking for people with strong search engine optimization marketing skills to increase their company’s visibility and web presence. This tech skill is in great demand for obvious reasons: increased visibility means more site traffic, and more site traffic leads to increased conversions, customers and revenue.

7. UX design

User experience design is the key to making a digital world work for people. You can find an increasing number of growth opportunities in this field. Getting into this promising industry requires the right skills and training to meet increasing business demands. If you want to gain an advantage when developing your UX design skills, you can enroll in an online degree program, follow UX experts or build a network.

8. Mobile app development

The industry for mobile application development continues to grow as mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets become the center of communication and work. Business and technological development have emerged at an impressive pace, resulting in an increased demand for people with experience in app development.

Mobile app development is a set of processes and procedures involving programming and creating applications or software designed for fast-operating mobile devices. If you want to learn how to develop a mobile app, you’ll need a few specific skills, such as coding and light graphic design. Because mobile apps are so common, you can find plenty of tutorials or guides for app creation. You can check out coding boot camps to start your app development skills.

9. Industrial Design

Industrial design is the professional practice of designing products, such as cars and smartphones, used by millions of consumers around the world. Most products undergo multiple design iterations before they reach the market. These product iterations typically involve several decisions on design and function. Employers usually need the skills of an industrial designer during these steps. Industrial designers focus on the functionality and appearance of a product, though they are usually involved in far more during the development process.

10. Video production

The ability to record, edit and produce a video is a valuable modern skill. While video production usually requires a more in-depth education, you don’t have to go back to college to learn the basics. You can learn video editing at home with a camera, a computer, a good microphone and video editing software. Many professionals use paid applications, but you can also choose from several free programs if you’re just starting.

Similar to video, audio production is becoming a more valuable skill in a wide variety of fields. While radio, music and entertainment are the most common industries that utilize audio production skills, you may also find jobs in large companies that produce their own marketing materials and advertisements. While audio production usually requires a lot of training, many online resources can help you learn the basics. You will need a computer, a good microphone and software for recording and editing to get started.