The impact of Covid-19 on all industries cannot be denied. A pandemic that “attacked” out of the blue will be remembered across industries as the time when business changed. Job titles and positions that weren’t even considered six months ago, are now being researched and introduced into many businesses. The question that many are asking themselves is, “Is what I do still relevant?”
“Business is dynamic, and changes do occur. However, these changes usually take place over a longer period of time. The deviations that businesses are experiencing today occurred without any notice, and although many can look at these changes as daunting, a new challenge lies before us; enticing us to take control and make it our own,” says Christo Badenhorst, Director of Search Partners International.
Developing new skills and staying relevant during these changes can be vital to job survival, and no one should be thinking that the job that they do will not be affected. Upskilling to take on the upheaval that Covid-19 has given us, should be done immediately. “Staying in your comfort zone is not an option. This is the time to make yourself indispensable and find ways to make this new situation work for you,” says Badenhorst.
To survive in a world post-COVID-19, there are skills that need to be explored and mastered to help stay relevant and in demand:
- Become a techy: COVID-19 has almost everyone within business learning how to do their jobs remotely. Six months ago, working in an office, surrounded by colleagues was considered the norm; now, having the skills to host online meetings and navigate through the cloud is day-to-day business practice. Learning new technology skills to better adapt to current working conditions and circumvent any changes in the future shows initiative and forward thinking. The future of remote learning is here, with artificial intelligence companies, big data and other technology based companies focused on making businesses more resilient to any future changes, and should you have those skills, you will be in demand.
- Digital know how: During the pandemic many businesses realised the need for a digital presence. Online traffic increased during lockdown, and due to this digital marketing and e-commerce needed to be stepped up. A captive audience, looking for information is the perfect combination. However, companies needed to be sensitive, and not pushy with their marketing tactics. Digital marketing will continue to grow, with more and more businesses needing an e-commerce presence. Having the skills to help your company with a digital presence gives you an edge over your competition.
- Be prepared to work from home: Having everything you need for remote working in your home, is a step in the right direction. WIFI, a computer, and a quiet and secluded space to work away from any distractions are just a few necessities that will be required. Through the pandemic, more and more businesses have become aware of the fact that there may not be a need for an office, therefore saving money. Employees proved that working from home and getting their jobs done effectively was a possibility.
- Be a leader: Especially during confusing times, people look for leaders. This is the time to step up and take on more challenges that will see you making more decisions. When someone steps forward to lead, others feel more comfortable to carry on with what needs to be done. A leader is not only about delegating, it is about putting people at ease, and the ability to control their emotions, and be aware of the emotions of others around them. Being a leader with a strong Emotional intelligence (EQ) and be able to lead effectively, is a strong skill for any future leader.
- Never stop learning: The more skills you can offer your employer, or a perspective employer the better. There are many courses that are offered online, and some of them are free.
- Make yourself available for contract work: Many businesses may not be looking to hire full time staff and would rather look for contractors to do the work instead. If you are looking for work, this is a great way to make money, gain experience and get your foot in the door at different companies.
“This recent pandemic has caused a shift in many aspects of our lives, and triggered our fight or flight responses, even in business,” says Badenhorst. “There are those who sat and watched while the world changed around them, only to find themselves now in a situation where they don’t know what to do, and there are those who assessed the situation and found ways to make it work for them. The latter are the ones who are now able to make this new way of business work for them and continue to get things done.”
