How In-Demand Career Skills Have Changed

The job market is constantly changing and evolving, adapting to the fluctuating needs of society and economic demands. South Africa faces a changing workforce, with new employment needs identified and new positions opening up frequently. Active job seekers can expect to see employers updating their position requirements and seeking employees that enable them to meet the demands of the modern business environment and keep up with international standards and norms.

The World Economic Forum has identified a list of the ten skills that will be most in-demand in the year 2020, in their report entitled the “Future of Jobs.

Top 10 Skills Needed in 2020

1. Complex problem solving
2. Critical thinking
3. Creativity
4. People management
5. Coordinating with others
6. Emotional intelligence (Not present on the 2015 list)
7. Judgment and decision making
8. Service orientation
9. Negotiation
10. Cognitive flexibility (Not present on the 2015 list)

Top 10 Skills Needed in 2015

1. Complex problem solving
2. Coordinating with others
3. People management
4. Critical thinking
5. Negotiation
6. Quality control (not present on the 2020 list)
7. Service orientation
8. Judgment and decision making
9. Active listening (not present on the 2020 list)
10. Creativity

Of the skills that have become more important, creativity has quickly risen, growing from a 10^th place ranking in 2015, to 3^rd in 2020. Emotional intelligence is an interesting newcomer to the list, quickly rising into 6^th place.

The following positions are currently trending and showing high demand:

• Staff recruitment/selection
• Software development
• Bookkeeping

The following sectors are currently showing high demand, which is likely set to continue as we head into 2020:

• Marketing
• Manufacturing and assembly
• Architecture and engineering
• Admin, office and support
• Sales
• Finance
• Business & management
• Information technology

Professional Sourcing has a strong reputation for highly developed recruitment expertise within our specialisation areas. We develop strong long-term relationships with our loyal clients. Allow us to help you deal with your frustrations of a lengthy hiring process.

Professional Sourcing is a top-tier South African-based recruitment agency operating internationally, IPM accredited, LEVEL 2 BEE RATED and 51% Black Owned.