Building skills in the digital era

Sponsored content: created in partnership with Kaplan.

In a digital-first world, you don’t have to be thinking about a career in technology to need up-to-date digital skills. Evolving industry demands in all sectors mean that graduates today need to be skilled at data analysis, using AI and digital communication, irrespective of their chosen field. According to the Lightcast Digital Skills Outlook for 2024, demand for AI skills has increased across global labour markets in the last 10 years, and the frequency with which these skills are being requested is increasing in all industries.

While you may be aware that employers seek digitally savvy graduates, it may not seem essential to build these skills if your course is in a field that appears unrelated to technology. So, how should you approach acquiring the digital skills that will make you stand out to prospective employers?

Research desirable skills for your dream role: The first step in building relevant skills is to identify the ones that are highly sought-after in your desired industry or role. Job descriptions in your chosen field can be a good way to see which digital skills are in demand. You can also reach out to professionals in this field to discuss the digital tools they find most useful or would seek from an applicant. 

Use online courses to gain skills and knowledge: Look into building a portfolio of skills and gaining certifications. Online learning platforms offer courses on a range of topics, including AI. You can easily enrol in flexible programmes online, and many higher education institutions partner with edtech providers to offer their students access to such courses.

Practice makes perfect: Having theoretical knowledge is one thing; having hands-on experience is another. A great way to strengthen your skills and gain confidence is to apply for internships or freelance projects where those skills can be used. This will help you build the real-world experience recruiters often seek. 

Stay up to date with skills trends: One of the most important strategies for building digital skills in today’s labour market is to adapt your learning as technology evolves. According to a 2024 Accenture report, the pace of technology change has risen by 183 per cent in the last four years and 33 per cent in the past year alone. Online learning platforms often adapt their courses based on industry demands, incorporating emerging technologies and in-demand skills across different fields.

Don’t forget soft skills: While technologies such as generative AI are becoming increasingly sophisticated, soft skills such as empathy, communication and critical thinking will remain important. According to a 2024 report by Cornerstone, the demand for human-centred skills continues to outpace the demand for digital skills in North American and European recruitment markets. It’s crucial for graduates to develop these in tandem with building technological knowledge. 

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