Why Reskilling and Upskilling Are Critical in Today's Job Market

In the age of rapid technological advancement and ever-evolving job roles, reskilling and upskilling have become imperative for career longevity. We tackled this hot-button issue, featuring insights from Brandon Lee, Assistant Chief Executive Transformation Support Group from Workforce Singapore (WSG)

The Accelerating Need to Continuously Learn

Brandon Lee emphasised the criticality of ongoing skill development, regardless of job stability. "Even if your employer doesn't change, your job may change," he cautioned. Roles today demand not just subject matter expertise but proficiency in new-age tools and technologies.

"In all the job openings we see, employers often require experience or knowledge in specific applications like Photoshop, Adobe programs, JavaScript frameworks and more - tools individuals may not have access to unless their previous employer used them..."

Bridging the Tool Skills Gap

For professionals who lack access to specific tools required for their desired roles, Brandon offered valuable advice:

1. Formal Training Pathways: Explore the over 20,000 courses offered by SkillsFuture Singapore across diverse domains including IT, marketing tools like HubSpot and more.

2. Informal Learning: Leverage the wealth of free, high-quality video tutorials on platforms like YouTube created by industry experts on niche, in-demand skills.

3. On-the-Job Learning: As a last resort, consider taking an entry-level role at a company using the desired tools, allowing you to gain hands-on experience before transitioning to other opportunities.

Career Conversion Programs - The Golden Ticket

For those looking to switch industries or embark on entirely new career paths, WSG's Career Conversion Programs could be a game-changer. These initiatives combine job placements with subsidised training, equipping participants with the skills needed to thrive in their new roles.

"We have career conversion programs that help people enter into healthcare," Brandon illustrated.

"You go into a healthcare institution, work and train at the same time to become a healthcare professional, regardless of your previous background."

Staying Relevant - A Continuous Process

On the eternal quest to remain relevant and marketable, Brandon advocated for PMETs and professionals to proactively upskill regularly versus waiting for organisational learning interventions.

His advice? Leverage volunteer career advisors, training ambassadors, job trends in your field and the profiles of professionals in your desired roles to identify the critical competencies to cultivate.

"Look at what certifications or knowledge skills people in your target jobs highlight on their LinkedIn profiles," Brandon recommended. "Analyse job descriptions for required tools and tweak your CV to avoid getting screened out by AI recruiters."

The Takeaway

In today's dynamic, skills-based economy, reskilling and upskilling aren't luxuries - they're necessities for sustained career growth. As Brandon summarised, "To continuously upskill and reskill is something all of us need to keep in mind because even if your job doesn't change, the technology, processes and rules around that job may evolve."

By embracing a growth mindset, leveraging available resources and taking ownership of our professional journeys, we can all future-proof our careers and remain indispensable assets.