As a professional in today’s fast-paced environment, the need for forward-thinking employees is growing more than ever. Employers are seeking individuals who can work with technology while bringing the crucial human elements that simply can’t be replaced by machines. Today, being productive and delivering results is about more than just completing tasks. You need to take the initiative and develop an attitude as a lifelong learner. Here are the top skills needed to succeed in the business world in 2020 and beyond:
Emotional Intelligence
While emerging technology like artificial intelligence, chatbots, and robots become more prevalent in business, they still can’t replace the human element. That’s where emotional intelligence comes into play. Emotional intelligence, or EQ, involves having a high level of self-awareness, the ability to control one’s emotions, and empathy when interacting with others. As success is almost always driven by teamwork, having a high EQ is crucial, especially for those in leadership roles.
Effective Communication
Strong communication skills don’t come easy or naturally to everyone. With so many methods of communication today, learning how to be more effective in each of these methods is increasingly important. Beyond face-to-face communication, professionals must be able to interpret information through listening, reading, writing, and observing. This includes email, chat, non-verbal cues, presentations, and more.
Growth Mindset
Having a growth mindset means a willingness to take on challenges, learn from failures, and maintain an eagerness to grow and develop through work and dedication. It’s this mindset that helps one stay motivated to achieve and excel against all obstacles. Adopting this attitude in the workplace allows you to focus on productive effort and seeking opportunities, rather than getting caught up in distractions that don’t lead to positive results.
Tech Savvy
With technology constantly advancing and evolving, it’s essential to not only have an awareness of, but also an understanding of what’s current. Being comfortable with new tech is the key to keeping up with the pace of change, no matter what field you specialize in. Working on your proficiency in technology related to your role is a must for career success.
Creative Thinking
While so much in business today is tech and data-driven, creativity is still essential. Creative thinking helps us come up with fresh new ideas and innovative ways to approach problem-solving. Employers are looking for resourceful workers who can develop new methods for tackling issues. Be willing to think outside of the box in an effort to improve upon the status quo.
Cognitive Flexibility
Cognitive flexibility refers to the ability to switch between multiple concepts quickly. Going from one task to another enables you to come up with creative solutions to problems and effectively handle whatever comes your way. Aim to increase your mental agility by seeking new experiences and taking opportunities as they come.
Success in business in 2020 means facing challenges head-on with a willingness to learn and grow. By developing these top skills, you’ll set yourself apart and find innovative ways to approach your career for years to come.
