Upskill or Be Out-Skilled: Staying Relevant in the Age of AI
Chances are you know how Artificial Intelligence (AI) has slowly been making its way across different industries replacing some employees. According to a global survey of C-suite executives, the workforce will be reduced in the next five years due to AI efficiency, according to CNN. This is alarming especially since there are employees whose work tasks can be replaced by AI, according to CNBC. If we don’t want to be included in the statistics of employees who lost their jobs because of AI, we should consider “upskilling” (preferably learning a skill that can’t be automated anytime soon).
Upskilling Can Help You Stay Ahead of the Curve (And the Competition)
When you have numerous transferrable skills, you stay ahead of the competition, and you might be the first in line come promotion time. Upskilling also helps you stay ahead and be noticed by your employers since they don’t need to spend any resources training you for software that is relevant to your job because you already know how!
When you invest in yourself, not only will you be adding another certificate to your collection or enhancing your LinkedIn profile, but opportunities will also come knocking on your door instead of the other way around.
When You Upskill, You’ll Be Irreplaceable
When you constantly upskill, you’ll be irreplaceable since you have diverse skills that employers will find appealing. Upskilling also ensures you stay relevant in today’s job market. Today, employers are looking for employees who can adapt to new challenges. Equipping yourself with the knowledge of using the latest tools and techniques, you can remain a sought-after candidate that companies will find difficult to overlook.
You’ll Be More Confident
When you hear your younger colleagues talking about the latest software or tool they have learned from university, it can make you feel like your own education is outdated. You feel less certain of yourself even if you have years of industry experience that they lack. When you upskill and learn what can help you with your career, you’ll feel more confident and self-assured in your abilities. Confidence can be a game-changer in advancing your career.
It’s Never Too Late to Learn Something New
Upgrading your skills is not just for young people or those trying to land a job. It’s for anyone, regardless of age! It’s never too late to learn something new, especially for those thinking of switching careers, even in their 30s or 40s. Upskilling is about saying yes to opportunities no matter where you are in your career.
Upskilling Can Also Help Prevent Dementia
Upskilling, or lifelong learning, can give your brain a workout and studies have shown that education can help improve our cognitive reserve and brain health. The more you learn, the more you keep your brain active. Not only will you improve professionally, but you will also manage to take care of your mental health.
Upskilling to future-proof yourself against AI and automation is a valid motivation, there are numerous other benefits as well. In fact, in this time and age, upskilling is not just an option anymore; it’s a necessity. Take that first step towards upskilling. Explore the courses available on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or even Google!
Do something today that your future self will thank you for.
