9 Essential Job Skills Students Need to Succeed in a Post-COVID World
As we anticipate the return to normalcy, the post-COVID-19 world presents numerous uncertainties. One certainty, however, is the lasting transformation in workplaces and the evolving skills companies now seek. Here are nine essential skills that will be in high demand:
1. Adaptability
The post-COVID-19 era requires individuals who can swiftly adapt to changing work environments. Job security may become obsolete, making continuous skill enhancement crucial. Those who can quickly pivot and thrive amidst change will be the most successful.
2. Tech Savviness
Equipping your child with technology skills is one of the best ways to prepare them for a future job market. Companies with robust technological capabilities are more resilient. Students proficient in tech tools and holding certifications from Google, Microsoft, or Amazon will have a competitive edge. These certifications can be obtained while still in high school, opening doors to high-paying jobs without necessarily attending university.
3. Creativity and Innovation
Businesses that quickly adapted by offering virtual services or pivoting to new products have weathered the pandemic better. In the future, human creativity will be vital for inventing new products and innovative ways of working.
4. Data Literacy
Data is the backbone of modern business operations. Companies need professionals skilled in data literacy to interpret and leverage data effectively, making data-driven decisions crucial for responding to disruptions and serving customers better.
5. Critical Thinking
The surge in misinformation during the pandemic highlighted the need for critical thinking. Organisations will value individuals who can objectively evaluate information and contribute to informed decision-making processes.
6. Digital and Coding Skills
The rapid digital transformation of businesses has increased the demand for professionals with digital skills, such as web development and digital marketing. Individuals who can maintain and enhance digital operations during economic downturns will be highly sought after.
7. Leadership
In a world of remote work and fluid teams, leadership skills are essential at all organisational levels. Effective leaders who can inspire collaboration and bring out the best in their teams will be in high demand.
8. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is crucial in challenging times. The ability to manage one’s emotions and empathise with others fosters a supportive work environment. Students must develop teamwork skills and emotional awareness to thrive in their careers.
9. Lifelong Learning
The World Economic Forum predicts that 35% of essential skills will change within five years. Continuous learning is the only way to stay relevant in a dynamic job market. Professionals committed to lifelong learning will remain in demand and face fewer employment challenges.
The Importance of Building a Skillset
Today's job market values practical tech and life skills over traditional college degrees. Here’s why focusing on skill-building is crucial:
Better Academic Performance
Students equipped with the aforementioned skills tend to perform better academically. Modern education emphasises student-centred learning and project-based approaches, which align with the 21st-century skills discussed.
Improved Attitude and Behaviour
Acquiring these skills enhances students' motivation to learn and their commitment to education. It fosters a positive attitude towards lifelong learning and boosts self-esteem.
Reduced Negative Behaviour
Students with these skills are better equipped to handle changes and challenges, focusing on solutions rather than complaints. They exhibit discipline, responsibility, and resilience.
Reduced Emotional Stress
Training in emotional intelligence helps students manage stress, anxiety, and social withdrawal, promoting emotional health even in uncertain times.
Better Prepared for Life
Students with these skills are more self-reliant and capable of tackling various life challenges. They become strong candidates for job opportunities and excel in their careers.
Preparing Your Child's Career
Skill Samurai offers a range of career certification courses to help students prepare for high-paying, high-demand jobs. Here are some career paths your child can pursue with Amazon Web Services (AWS) certification:
Career Paths
Foundational:
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (13 hours of class time)
Associate:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect (34 hours)
- AWS Certified Developer (53 hours)
- AWS Certified SysOps Administrator (varied hours)
Professional:
- AWS Certified DevOps Engineer
Acquiring these certifications can lead to lucrative job opportunities. For instance, the average salary for an AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate in the US and Canada is $130,883.
How Can My Teen Acquire Job Skills?
Sign up for the Skill Samurai Career Readiness Program and watch our available webinars. This will provide your child with the necessary background knowledge for industry certifications, preparing them for success before they graduate high school.
Get started here.
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