How Digital Upskilling Can Prepare Workers for Automation
Posted by Des Sinkevich on February 14, 2024
More and more, AI and automation are impacting the world of work, creating new jobs and even, unfortunately, making some roles obsolete. But as the use of “robots” and artificial intelligence become more prevalent, ensuring students and employees know how to use it and make the most of it in the workplace is essential to improving the workforce. That’s where digital upskilling comes in.
What is digital upskilling?
Digital upskilling involves providing training and resources to help your workforce learn and utilize new, relevant digital skills.
Whether that means helping them learn how to effectively use AI, use the right tools and machinery, or just developing leadership skills, digital upskilling and online training can be essential to ensuring your workforce can stay engaged and productive.
Read more: How to Attract Workers in a Remote Work World
Essential skills for the future of work
Today, every employee should have these skills:
- Basic math skills
- Pattern recognition and trend analysis
- Strategic thinking
- Communication skills
- Cognitive tools for decision making
While some of these don’t sound like digital skills, they all help employees interact with technology and operate in a fast-paced digital world. Your employees must be confident in these abilities before you introduce automation solutions, or your business won’t see the full benefits of the technology.
How do you know if employees have these capabilities? Some, like basic math skills, can be proven using a simple assessment. Others, like strategic thinking, are harder to measure.
You can start by asking employees where they feel they need to improve. Often, employees are aware of their weaknesses and are eager to access training or tools to strengthen those skills. If you’re concerned that employees won’t feel comfortable sharing their weaknesses, consider bringing in a third-party survey company. You can also ask managers and supervisors to identify areas for improvement among their direct reports.
Once you’ve gathered your data, look for patterns. Does your workforce as a whole have a weakness in specific skills? Can you spot areas for improvement in specific departments or groups of employees. If so, target your efforts there first.
After you’ve introduced digital upskilling solutions, monitor employee progress with regular assessments. Your training partner should be able to help you keep track of employee development progress.
Read more: How to Improve Workforce Training Through Microlearning
Continuous workforce automation training
Evolving technology means employees need continuous training and development to stay ahead of the curve. In short, automation training never stops. That’s actually a good thing, because continuous training keeps employees engaged with their jobs. It makes them feel valued and prepared. Most importantly, it helps them stay flexible, so they view the changes wrought by automation with curiosity and excitement rather than fear.
Not sure if investing in employee development or partnering with an education provider is the right move? Learn more about the return on investment for education benefits and how they can improve retention, engagement, and productivity!