The 13 skills predicted to be in high demand over the next five years
Jobs are constantly changing, and so are the skills workers need to succeed.
But don’t just take our word for it. Research shows that 23% of jobs will likely change (by being created or eliminated) within the next five years.
Why? One of the biggest reasons is that businesses are adopting new technology — and fast. Over the next five years, it’s expected that:
- 75% of businesses will start using AI, big data, and cloud computing
- 86% will adopt digital platforms and apps
- 75% will add e-commerce and digital trade to their operations
As technology becomes more popular and better at doing human work, demand for certain jobs lessens. For example, the need for some roles that require repetitive manual skills — like data entry, typing, switchboard operation, or machine assembly — is decreasing steadily. This can be challenging for people who have built their careers in roles such as these.
But it’s not all bad news.
Overall, these changes are opening up new industries and jobs (more than are being eliminated) that require new types of skills. Workers who choose to gain knowledge in these growing areas will have a competitive edge over those who don’t.
So, which skills should you focus on learning to advance your career? A good place to start is by looking at which ones employers are anticipating needing the most.
But first, let’s talk about the different opportunities you could unlock by gaining new skills to put on a resume.
The skills gap: what it is and how you can leverage it to find opportunities
If you find yourself caught in the middle of today’s shifting job market, you’re not alone.
Most workers are worried they don’t have the skills (78%) and education (71%) they need to grow their careers. And 70% of U.S. employers are struggling to find skilled workers to fill open roles.
Most workers are worried they don’t have the skills (78%) and education (71%) they need to grow their careers.
—Upskilling Study, Workplace Intelligence, Amazon, 2022
The evidence is clear: There’s a mismatch between the skills employers are looking for and the skills employees have. This is called a “skills gap.”
What does this mean for you?
The wider the skills gap gets, the more important learning in-demand skills becomes. After all, around 73% of business executives say they expect to continue struggling with filling open roles over the next three years. And as a result, 70% of those executives say they’re now hiring based on skill rather than experience alone.
70% of business executives who expect to struggle to fill open roles for the next three years plan to hire based on skills rather than experience alone.
—Deloitte Skills-Based Organization Survey, Deloitte, May-June 2022
To move up in your field or step into a new role, developing new skills could prove to be essential. It can also open up many new opportunities for you and your career that you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.
Some benefits of gaining in-demand skills to put on your resume:
- Excel in your current role: Adding new abilities to your skill set could make you even better at your job and position you for a promotion.
- Stand out from the pack when going after a new role: Having sought-after skills could give you an advantage over other candidates.
- Move into a new industry: The right skills could open the door to a role in a different field you’re interested in, even if you don’t have experience in it.
- Boost your wages: Research shows that American workers who gain new, in-demand skills increase their annual wages by an average of 8.6% more than those who don’t.
- Grow personally and professionally: Reaching your personal and professional goals can give you a deeper sense of accomplishment and confidence.
Must-have skills that can provide a competitive edge at work
As you browse the list of in-demand skills below, you may notice two different kinds: hard skills and soft skills.
Let’s briefly discuss the differences between them.
Hard skills are tangible and measurable, such as coding, design, or accounting. You generally learn hard skills through past work experience, education, or training.
Soft skills are attitudes and interpersonal abilities, such as leadership, creative thinking, or attention to detail. Some soft skills may come naturally to you, but you can also learn them.
The truth is:
Soft skills tend to be harder to measure, but both types are equally important when landing (and excelling in) a new role.
Hard skills are tangible and measurable, while soft skills are attitudes and interpersonal abilities.
Let’s explore the top hard and soft skills employers are looking for workers to put on their resumes.
In-demand hard skills across industries
1. Technological literacy
Nowadays, knowing how to use technology is critical for nearly all roles — especially for those who work with it day in and day out. Tech know-how can range from basics like the internet and computers to more complex tools like data platforms or machine learning.
Roles that require technological literacy:
- IT specialist
- Website developer
- Digital marketer
- Data analyst
2. Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data
More and more, businesses are relying on data and AI to make everyday decisions. This means they’re looking for workers who know how to use AI and can understand and manage large, complex data sets.
Roles that require AI and big data skills:
- Data analyst
- Software developer
- Medical imaging specialist
- Fraud detection analyst
3. Design and user experience (UX)
Design and UX both involve making businesses’ materials (anything from websites to apps) attractive and user-friendly. In general, design focuses on making materials visually appealing, while UX focuses on making them satisfying and easy to follow for customers.
Roles that require design and UX skills:
- Graphic designer
- Website designer
- UX writer
- User interface (UI) developer
- UX researcher
- Information architect
4. Programming
Programmers (also known as coders) write instructions for computers to perform a task. Countless technologies are built with programming — everything from apps to websites to data analysis to video games and virtual reality.
Roles that require programming skills:
- Website developer
- App developer
- Data scientist
- Software engineer
5. Marketing and media
Many customers choose to shop online and on social media nowadays. As a result, companies are looking for employees skilled in digital ads, social media accounts, public relations, ad design, and content creation.
Roles that require marketing and media skills:
- Digital marketer
- Public relations specialist
- Content marketer
- Marketing manager
6. Networks and cybersecurity
As technology evolves, so do security threats. Companies have to keep their security up to date to protect sensitive information from hackers, phishing, and other types of digital theft.
Roles that require networks and cybersecurity skills:
- Network engineer
- Security analyst
- Penetration tester (an ethical hacker who tests networks’ security)
- IT consultant
- Data security specialist
In-demand soft skills across industries
1. Analytical thinking
AI is getting better at logic and analysis, but it can’t quite replicate the human ability to interpret data and think critically. Analytical thinking is especially valuable for leadership roles and jobs that involve technology, data, and research.
A few roles that require analytical thinking:
- Data scientist
- Business analyst
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Market research analyst
- Product manager
- Marketing manager
- Software engineer
- IT specialist
- Financial advisor
2. Creative thinking
Once again, technology can’t think outside the box like people can. It takes creativity to solve problems, find new opportunities, think of new products and services, and capture customers’ attention.
Roles that require creative thinking:
- Digital marketer
- Copywriter
- Journalist
- Graphic designer
- Web designer
- Packaging designer
- UX designer
- Product developer
- Teacher or coach
- Customer service manager
3. Resilience, flexibility, and agility
Businesses have to stay agile to keep up with customer trends. Employees who are resilient and flexible can help their employers shift quickly to solve problems and take advantage of opportunities.
Roles that require resilience, flexibility, and agility:
- Product manager
- Product developer
- Software developers
- Digital marketer
- Marketing manager
- Customer service representative
- RN
- Therapist
4. Motivation and self-awareness
Motivated employees tend to work better and contribute to a positive workplace environment. And because they understand how and when they work best, managers can trust them to produce quality work on a regular basis.
Roles that require motivation and self-awareness:
- Entrepreneur
- Sales representative
- Manager (or any leadership role)
- Therapist
- Developer
- Teacher or coach
- Marketer
5. Curiosity and lifelong learning
Workers who are curious and constantly learning are more likely to stay updated on industry trends and learn new, in-demand skills. This can help them think of new ideas and adapt to new tools at work.
Roles that require curiosity and lifelong learning:
- Data scientist
- Data or systems analyst
- Engineer
- Software developer
- IT specialist
- Cybersecurity specialist
- Marketing specialist
- Designer
6. Dependability and attention to detail
Employees who are dependable and detail-oriented tend to consistently produce high-quality work. These skills are best suited for roles that demand accuracy with few to no errors.
Roles that require dependability and attention to detail:
- Data or systems analyst
- Financial analyst
- Editor
- RN
- Pharmacist
- Architect
- Engineer
- Quality control inspector
7. Empathy and active listening
Workers who are skilled in empathy and active listening are well-suited for customer-facing roles. These skills can help them understand customers’ needs, build trust, and make sales.
Roles that require empathy and active listening:
- Customer service representative
- Talent recruiter
- Human resources manager
- Therapist
- Teacher or coach
- General or operations manager
- Sales representative
In-demand skills by industry: prepare for your company’s future by learning these types of skills
Across all industries, employers are looking for certain skills like the ones listed above. But if you look at specific industries, the skills with the highest demand can vary widely. That’s because each industry has its own trends and unique needs.
If you’re looking to grow or land a new role within healthcare, financial services, retail, manufacturing, or hospitality, consider gaining some of the following skills to put on your resume.
In-demand skills in healthcare
1. Creative thinking
Relevant roles:
- Project manager
- Biomedical engineer
- Marketing professional
2. Curiosity and lifelong learning
Relevant roles:
- Medical researcher
- Digital marketer
- Therapist
- RN
3. Leadership and social influence
Relevant roles:
- Business development specialist
- Nurse manager
- Healthcare administrator
4. Analytical thinking
Relevant roles:
- Pharmacist
- Project manager
- Data or systems analyst
- Marketing analyst
- Lab technician
5. Empathy and active listening
Relevant roles:
- RN
- Therapist
- Physician assistant
- Customer service representative
- Phlebotomist technician
In-demand skills in financial services
1. Analytical thinking
Relevant roles:
- Business intelligence analyst
- Data analyst
- Data scientist
- Financial analyst
- Financial and investment advisor
- Risk management specialist
- Compliance officer
2. AI and big data
Relevant roles:
- Market risk analyst
- Digital transformation specialist
- Data analyst
- Software developer
3. Creative thinking
Relevant roles:
- Financial and investment advisor
- Digital marketer
- UX Designer
- Website developer
- Digital transformation specialist
4. Leadership and social influence
- Bank manager
- Digital marketer
- Financial and investment advisor
- Executive officer
5. Curiosity and lifelong learning
Relevant roles:
- Investment and portfolio manager
- Marketing manager
- Digital transformation specialist
- Software developer
- Product manager
In-demand skills in retail
1. Analytical thinking
Relevant roles:
- Data analyst
- Business development specialist
- Product and market researcher
- Visual merchandiser
2. Leadership and social influence
Relevant roles:
- Managing director
- Chief executive
- General manager
- Operations manager
- Project manager
3. Service orientation and customer service
Relevant roles:
- Shop salesperson
- Sales representative
- Customer service representative
4. AI and big data
Relevant roles:
- Retail data analyst
- Business systems analyst
- Inventory management specialist
5. Motivation and self-awareness
Relevant roles:
- Store manager
- Area sales manager
- Shop salesperson
- Business development specialist
In-demand skills in manufacturing
1. Leadership and social influence
Relevant roles:
- Project manager
- Managing director
- Chief executive
- General or operations manager
- Supply chain manager
2. AI and big data
Relevant roles:
- AI and machine learning specialist
- Technical specialist
- Data analyst
- Automation programmer
3. Analytical thinking
Relevant roles:
- Business development specialist
- Systems or data analyst
- Maintenance engineer
- Supply chain manager
4. Creative thinking
Relevant roles:
- Industrial engineer
- Production engineer
- Industrial designer
- Packaging designer
5. Environmental stewardship
Relevant roles:
- Mechanics specialist
- Environmental compliance specialist
- Quality control inspector
- Environmental data analyst
In-demand skills in hospitality
1. Creative thinking
Relevant roles:
- Chef or cook
- Event manager
- Graphic or website designer
2. Analytical thinking
Relevant roles:
- Business development specialist
- Data or systems analyst
- Market researcher
3. Leadership and social influence
Relevant roles:
- Hotel or restaurant manager
- General or operations manager
- Concierge
- Front desk agent
4. Marketing and media
Relevant roles:
- Digital marketer
- Social media specialist
- Public relations specialist
- Content marketer
- Graphic designer
5. Resource management and operations
Relevant roles:
- Supply chain manager
- Operations manager
- Human resources manager
- IT manager
How to decide which skills to gain for your personal and professional goals
Even with lists of in-demand skills, knowing which to focus on for you and your career can be tough. Deciding what to learn depends on your interests, goals, current skill set, and schedule.
Try taking the steps below to figure out what skills you should gain to meet your personal and professional goals.
Step #1: Decide if you want to upskill or reskill to prepare for your next role
Upskilling and reskilling simply mean learning new skills to grow your career. But there are slight differences between the two terms.
Upskilling is gaining new skills so you can move up in your current field. Example: A digital marketer taking a leadership course to work toward becoming a marketing manager.
Upskilling allows you to build on what you already know, which may help you get a promotion or higher-level role in your field.
Reskilling is learning an entirely new set of skills so you can get a job in a different field. Example: A bank teller learning to code to become a junior web developer.
If you don’t enjoy your current role, reskilling can help you prepare for a job in a field that interests you more.
Hard skills are tangible and measurable, while soft skills are attitudes and interpersonal abilities.
Step #2: Read up on the tech trends that are impacting your industry
Technology is constantly changing the way we work — from self-checkout systems to automated paperwork to robot-assisted surgery.
Some of the top workplace tech trends:
- AI is changing how machines do human work, and generative AI now creates content or code based on a prompt (like ChatGPT)
- Data analytics allows businesses to collect and analyze data on customer behavior, market trends, and more to make informed decisions
- Automation makes repetitive tasks more efficient for employees and makes customers’ experiences easier
Researching these trends can help you decide which skills to learn to put on your resume and advance your career. You can stay up to date by reading tech magazines in your industry or general business publications like Forbes or TechCrunch.
Step #3: Reframe your skills to optimize your resume for your next role
By reframing your work experience, you can optimize your resume with sought-after skills you already have and stand out as a candidate.
These are also called “transferrable skills.” For example, if you have experience as an order fulfillment specialist, you may have gained skills like:
- Attention to detail
- Resilience, flexibility, and agility
- Customer service
- Technological literacy
Reflect: Take a few minutes to look at your resume and think about your past work experiences. What skills have you gained from each role? How could those skills apply to another role or field you’d like to pursue?
Step #4: Make a career roadmap to figure out what steps to take to reach your goals
A career roadmap is a personalized plan to help you get from point A to point B in your career. To make your career map, consider where you are right now and where you want to be (your career goals).
Next, think about the steps you need to take to get there. If you’re having trouble figuring out which small goals should line your roadmap, use these questions:
- What skills do you need to gain?
- Where and how can you gain those skills?
- What kind of professionals and peers should you connect with? How will you meet them?
- What resources are available to you to gain new skills and network?
Step #5: Browse programs in your Guild catalog based on the skills you want to gain
If you’re a Guild member, you can explore available programs in your catalog based on the skills you’ll learn. You can also compare programs by funding level, program length, and even effort per week to find the best fit for your schedule and career.
Need help with understanding your benefit or finding a program? Log into your account and reach out to Guild Support to connect with a specialist who can help you:
- Explore your funding options
- Compare programs
- Make a plan that works for you and your career