The future of work: which skills will really survive? 💼🤖

The world of work is changing rapidly - and the hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) has many fearing that machines could take over our jobs. But is this really the biggest threat? No! The real challenge lies in how we as people and companies prepare ourselves for this change. A willingness to undergo further training and a strong learning culture are crucial for success in the future. 🚀

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What do the studies say? 📚

Current studies underpin the change in the world of work and emphasize the need to acquire new skills:

1. McKinsey study (2021):
   According to a McKinsey study, around 375 million workers worldwide will have to adapt their skills by 2030, as many existing jobs will be replaced by automation and AI. Occupations in the manufacturing sector and routine jobs in the service sector will be particularly affected (McKinsey Global Institute, The Future of Work: Rethinking Skills and Workforce Development). This shows how important it is as a career guide to think not only in terms of current occupational fields, but also in terms of the future requirements of the world of work.
2. PwC study (2022):
   According to the PwC study "The Workforce of the Future", the demand for digital skills and in particular for managers with tech skills is at an all-time high. 77% of managers surveyed say that their employees need further training in technology to keep pace with rapidly changing requirements. This confirms the need for comprehensive career planning and HR advice that sees digital skills as a core competency. (Source: PwC, The Workforce of the Future).
3. World Economic Forum (2023):
   In its study "The Future of Jobs Report" for 2023, the World Economic Forum (WEF) predicts that 44% of the global workforce will need to expand their professional skills by 2025 in order to cope with technological changes and increasing automation. In particular, digital and analytical skills as well as soft skills such as communication and problem-solving skills will be in high demand. (Source: WEF, The Future of Jobs Report).

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Expert statements on the changing world of work 👩‍💼👨‍💼

In addition to the studies, there are also numerous experts who confirm these developments and emphasize the importance of continuous learning:

1. Dr. Thomas Sattelberger, Chief Human Resources Officer at Deutsche Telekom:
   "The biggest challenge in the coming years will be to establish a continuous learning culture in companies. Those who are not prepared to continuously learn and adapt will fall by the wayside in the long term." This statement shows how important it is to focus on long-term training strategies as an HR consultancy for managers and to create a learning environment that promotes not only knowledge but also adaptability.
2. Prof. Dr. Christian Stumm, Head of the Labor Market and Human Resources Research Group at the University of Mannheim:
   "In the digitalized world, soft skills such as communication and the ability to work in a team are just as important as technical knowledge. In recruitment, we are increasingly relying on a mix of digital and interpersonal skills to meet current requirements."
3. Anja Förster, HR development expert and author:
   "The future doesn't belong to those who stay in their comfort zone, but to those who continuously develop themselves. Companies that invest in their employees and their further development are the winners of tomorrow." This statement re-emphasizes the role of career support in promoting continuous development and adaptation of skills.

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Which skills will survive? 🔑

In an increasingly digital working world, some skills are crucial not just to survive, but to succeed:

1. Analytical thinking & problem-solving skills 🔍
   These skills are essential for decision-making in a data-driven world - and are also becoming increasingly important in the career planning of managers.
2. Tech skills in AI, big data & cybersecurity 💻
   These skills are now the standard. Anyone involved in recruitment and executive search knows how crucial digital skills are for career development.
3. Soft skills - communication, empathy & collaboration 💬
   Machines can do many things, but they cannot communicate empathically or maintain complex interpersonal relationships. This is where humans come into play! Soft skills are increasingly in demand in HR consulting.
4. Learning agility & adaptability 🧠
   The ability to constantly evolve is a must. Especially in recruitment and career support, it is important to focus on this ability.

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Conclusion 📢

The world of work is increasingly shaped by AI and automation, but the biggest challenges lie not in the technology, but in the adaptability of employees and companies. It is crucial to invest in a strong learning culture and promote the right skills.

My recommendation: companies must act now and invest in the continuous professional development of their employees. This includes both technical and interpersonal skills. Managers should act as role models and establish a learning culture that promotes continuous development. As career advisors and HR consultants, it is our job to actively support these change processes - so that companies can not only survive change, but also actively shape it.