askST Jobs: What are the hottest skills that anyone can pick up?
Digital literacy is one of the most essential skills to pick up.ST ILLUSTRATION: MANNY FRANCISCO
In this series, manpower reporter Tay Hong Yi offers practical answers to candid questions on navigating workplace challenges and getting ahead in your career. Get more tips by signing up for The Straits Times' Headstart newsletter.
Q: Which key new skills should I pick up in 2025?
A: Digital literacy is one of the most essential skills to pick up, says Dr Samson Tan, director for learning and professional development at the Institute for Adult Learning.
"As generative AI (artificial intelligence) and digital tools become integral to work processes, individuals effectively leveraging these technologies will stand out."
Beyond having technical know-how, workers will have to find specific ways to apply these technologies to their existing work processes, Dr Tan adds.
Likewise, Mr Foo See Yang, managing director and country head of recruitment firm Persolkelly Singapore, says workers must be comfortable with evolving technologies.
"This includes basic proficiency in digital tools, as well as a deeper understanding of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics.
"The growing reliance on automation and data-driven decision-making across sectors is the primary trend driving this focus."
Under the wider umbrella of digital literacy, data literacy is one specific skill that even basic knowledge of can significantly improve a worker's competitiveness, Mr Foo adds. He notes that understanding how to interpret and use data allows employees to make more informed decisions and navigate the increasing amount of data that influences all industries.
The ability to code or proficiently use digital tools like spreadsheets, content management systems or project management software can also set individuals apart.
"As these skills are becoming more universal across industries, they enable greater efficiency and adaptability in work environments," Mr Foo says.
Dr Tan says another key area to brush up on is digital communication, which has become indispensable in hybrid and globalised work environments.
"Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack and virtual presentation platforms require technical familiarity and demand clear, concise and engaging communication.
"The ability to convey ideas effectively, adapt to diverse audiences and foster collaboration is now critical for professional success, whether working with teams or engaging clients."
With workplaces increasingly needing tech-savvy capabilities, cognitive flexibility and strong interpersonal skills, workers will need to be more agile and adaptable than ever before, Mr Foo notes.
In a similar vein, leadership skills such as motivating teams, fostering trust and managing conflict are essential to navigating workplaces these days, Mr Foo says.
"Even basic knowledge in these areas can significantly impact team dynamics and productivity.
"As organisations embrace flatter hierarchies and more team-based structures, leaders who can inspire and manage people effectively are increasingly in demand."
Dr Tan says another area of focus lies in fostering creative and strategic thinking. "In an increasingly automated world, creativity and strategic insight remain uniquely human strengths," he says.
"This skill also amplifies the impact of digital literacy and communication, providing the framework for their effective application in any context."
He adds that while technical skills open doors to immediate opportunities, transferable skills ensure long-term career resilience.
Q: How do I ensure that new skills I've learnt are meaningful and relevant?
To this end, workers should focus on three key strategies, Mr Foo says.
"First, continuous learning and feedback are essential. Regularly seeking feedback from supervisors and colleagues allows employees to evaluate how their new skills align with their job performance and organisational needs.
"Engaging in continuous learning also helps keep knowledge up to date with evolving industry standards, ensuring that individuals remain competitive and relevant."
It is also crucial to stay informed about industry trends and networking by joining professional groupings or attending industry conferences, for instance.
"This will enable workers to identify which skills are most in demand and ensure that their learning efforts are aligned with the evolving needs of the industry," Mr Foo says. He adds: "Finally, candidates should focus on the real-world application of their skills."
This involves identifying areas within their existing work that can be enhanced if they gain specific new skills or knowledge.
"By implementing what they've learnt in their daily tasks or in side projects, they can directly assess how these skills translate into actionable results or improvements in their work," Mr Foo says.
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