Top tech skills you'll definitely need by 2020

In 2020, the way we think, act and use technology, will have drastically changed (Stocksnap.io)

The rise of smart machines, a new media ecology and a globally connected world, are just some of the skills that are changing the world we work in.

The world we live in is evolving faster than we can imagine, and it is within this fast-paced digital world that those who have the ability to adapt to technology changes and trends will be successful.

As we speak, these following trends are shifting the world we work in:

  • The rise of smart machines and systems are enhancing human capabilities.
  • The growth of a computational world which is changing the world into a programmable system.
  • New media ecology where media literacy is going beyond text.
  • Superstructured organisations where social technologies are giving organisations the ability to produce work and add value at larger scales.
  • A globally connected world in which diversity and adaptability are at the centre of operations.
  • With all of these massive changes taking place, what will this mean for the 21st century employee? It will mean developing skills that will help you keep your job when the robots eventually take over (because they will). It will also mean focusing on the long term growth of your career, rather than the now.

    When it comes to landing a job, digital literacy will be the new literacy. While some jobs will become obsolete, others will be created over the five year period. Communications, tech-savvy and constant learning will be compulsory in all fields.

    By 2020, the way you think and act, as well as how you use technology, will play a significant role in determining the success of your career. The ability to come up with solutions, ideas and responses will be high in demand and push your career forward. Having the ability to connect with people from other cultures will also work in your favour. A strong design mindset will be crucial too. If you have the ability to develop tasks and work processes that create desired outcomes, you’ll be high in demand.

    Other skills that will put you in the best position for 2020 include the ability to:

  • come up with solutions and responses beyond what the rules specify;
  • translate large amounts of data into abstract concepts and understand data based reasoning;
  • critically assess and develop content that uses new media forms, and to leverage these media for persuasive communication;
  • filter important information and understand how to maximize cognitive functions;
  • work productively, drive engagement and demonstrate presence as a member of a virtual team.
  • So if you want to know which of these digital skills you have (and which you need to learn), take South Africa’s very first indigenous personality test. You’ll receive a reliable personality measure, relevant to the South African multi-cultural context. Thereafter, you can do some catching up with a short online course from Udemy.  From Digital Marketing to Project Management or Photoshop, Udemy offers a wide variety of online short courses, to meet every working professional and student’s need.