WX trends: What you need to know about upskilling
Our workplace experience (WX) trends series looks at recent news articles, videos, social media posts and thought leadership pieces on workplace experience. You’ll also hear from our experts on what’s trending.
This WX trends is all about upskilling. First, we explore what the skills gap is and who it impacts. Next, why Gen X and Boomers shouldn’t be left behind. Finally, we learn about one company that has jumped on the upskilling bandwagon – with positive results.
Who is impacted by the skills gap?
The workforce skills gap is set to become a major competitiveness threat, and leaders need to focus on upskilling to address this, according to an article in Forbes. Three key questions leaders must ask are: Why upskill, who needs new skills, and how will they acquire them?
McKinsey’s James Rappaport notes that up to 375 million workers globally may need to switch occupations soon, driven by technological advances, especially AI, the article continues. Dr. KimLoan Tran from Allstate emphasizes the need for “power skills” like learning agility, outcome focus, inclusive leadership, and digital fluency. Dr. Raffaella Sadun of Harvard Business School adds that effective human-machine interaction, such as skilled questioning like prompt engineering in AI tools, will be crucial.
To avoid being overwhelmed by technology, leaders should focus on human skills like smart judgement and problem-solving, the article explains. Dr. Tran warns against losing sight of human connections in the tech push, advocating for a skills-centered approach in hiring, development, and rewards.
Creating a continuous learning culture is essential, the article concludes. The best organizations will support and reward upskilling, ensuring employees see it as part of their job and career growth, says Mandi Crume, Director of Global Talent Acquisition & Learning Development at Appspace.
“This is going to be a big part of our future as we grow.”
The generations we shouldn’t leave behind
Employees are keen on upskilling to secure their careers, according to an article in Forbes by Diane Bartoli, senior vice-president at EdAssist by Bright Horizons.
A Bright Horizons study of 2,000 U.S. employees revealed:
-77% want to develop new skills or pursue further education.
-55% feel pressured to stay competitive.
-68% wish for more career advancement opportunities from their employers.
This is crucial for businesses facing industry disruptions and talent shortages, notes Bartoli. Notably, upskilling isn’t just for the young; many Boomers (58%) and Gen-Xers (74%) prioritize new skills and continuing education.
To support seasoned workers, consider a blended learning approach combining online, hands-on, and peer-to-peer education, Bartoli suggests. Highlight the relevance of new skills to their roles and offer flexible schedules for training.
Companies that foster a culture of continuous growth for all employees, including those nearing retirement, will excel in retaining talent and staying competitive, the article concludes.
Investing in the development of older workers is key to filling the skills gap, says Crume. “Everyone must be included.”
One company that has embraced upskilling
The automotive giant Ford provides a great example of upskilling. The company has unveiled ‘Ford University,’ a cutting-edge training platform aimed at bridging knowledge gaps among dealership employees.
Launched at 3,000 dealerships, this digital, video-based service is accessible 24/7 and features personalized dashboards, gamified learning, AI-supported virtual coaching, and a vast content library, according to an article in HR Grapevine USA.
Abby Vietor, Ford’s global director of dealer training, highlights the need for this overhaul, citing the previous text-heavy programs’ failure to ensure long-term knowledge retention. The platform addresses challenges posed by the shift to electric and software-defined vehicles, providing specialized support for evolving customer needs, the article explains.
Ford University promises enhanced employee engagement and improved customer experiences, leveraging expert-designed content and innovative learning methods. Initially for sales staff, the program will gradually include other departments, transforming employees from salespeople to trusted advisors, the article concludes.
