The pandemic has resulted in many changes to the functioning of organizations, with the adoption of digitization and automation seen as the primary impact. However, the economic impact COVID has had is one fallout that many underestimated. To maintain continuity in the new normal, many companies were compelled to reimagine their functions and adapt for the future. A key aspect in the successful emergence from the crisis is employee skilling. Organizations are required to nurture their employees’ technical, digital, cognitive, and resilience skill sets and help in a seamless transition to the new normal.  

According to the McKinsey Global Survey, 14 percent of the global workforce will have to switch occupations or acquire new skills by 2030. This will be to ensure these workers remain relevant in a time when automation and artificial intelligence will revolutionize all industries. Additionally, 87 percent of the employees are likely to face skill gaps in the workforce. Therefore, the future of work requires two primary changes across the workforce: upskilling and reskilling. 

Ensuring timely skill transformation at the workplace

The pandemic has demonstrated that no one has control over the future, and long-term goals are more likely to fall through than ever before. While businesses are coping with the new normal, neglecting the importance of timely upskilling and reskilling of employees can pose a serious problem for business growth. 

To help the business thrive and survive, organizations need to ensure timely upskilling and reskilling of the employees. This will enhance employee’s knowledge and skills which directly impact their personal goals and company KPIs. Additionally, through workforce training, organizations can maximize employee’s potential and allow them to retain their jobs by expanding their skills to different areas.

There are multiple problems which directly stem from inadequately skilled employees at the workplace. Shortage of skilled employees is likely to hamper productivity as well as the overall business outcome. Additionally, employees may experience increased levels of work-related stress and limited scope of growth leading to higher attrition. 

In the long run, upskilling and reskilling programs can also attract new talent, increase collaboration between departments and speed up the adoption of new trends within the company. Therefore, with timely upskilling and reskilling of the employees, the companies can save themselves from future disruptions. 

Role of technology in successful skill transformation

Encouraging employees to learn new skills will benefit both the employees as well as the business. New technologies play a promising role in enhancing learning capabilities while making the experience more engaging. Employees can capitalize on this by using various platforms to upskill themselves. 

Further, organizations must encourage their employees to be updated with new technologies and organizational standards which will help them plan and perform better. Additionally, with access to platforms like Slack, Zoom, Teams, and G-meet, the leadership team can exchange knowledge and information with their employees and help them achieve their goals. Utilizing technology for skill transformation will not only increase employee productivity but will also enhance their engagement rate. 

How to address the skills gaps within the organization? 

Addressing skills gaps within the organization in a post-pandemic world is essential. With digital disruption and remote working, there has been a big change in the modern workplace. However, improving technical skills like software and systems knowledge, along with soft skills, will help bridge the skill gap existing in the organization. 

A point to note is that bolstering skills is not a straightforward approach. Instead, organizations must focus on multiple key areas which will have a very tangible impact for the company.  By ensuring that the workforce is well-aligned with the business requirements, organizations can prime themselves for growth

Upskilling and reskilling are the essential ways for organizations to equip employees with the skills and competencies they need to be future proof. However, the skilling of the employees depends on the specific needs of both the employees and the organization. A combination of multiple skills training is likely to ensure incredible business outcomes.