Skills Development: Why It’s the Way Forward

Skills development in today’s job market

 

It’s no surprise that technology has completely changed how modern businesses function. Regardless of the industry, companies no longer have the option to ignore digital transformation. Instead, it has become necessary, and employees and organisations must keep up. 

 

Adapting to a rapidly evolving workplace

The job market is evolving faster than ever before. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023, 44% of workers’ skills are expected to change by 2028. Roles are now being defined by artificial intelligence, automation, and new technologies, meaning workers need to keep up. 

 

South African companies, in particular, are feeling the pressure, with over 60% seeing major skills gaps that pose a significant barrier to transformation. 

 

The rise of digital and soft skills

 

While technical skills are vital, companies also require employees with soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, critical thinking, conflict resolution, and communication. 

 

These skills set humans apart from AI and machine learning, making them increasingly important to maintain balance. 

 

Lifelong learning as a career imperative

 

Lifelong learning is now a necessity. Professionals increasingly turn to online skills courses, certifications, and part-time study to upskill and reskill. 

 

Closing the skills gap

While degrees are important, taking short courses to learn specific skills is just as critical. This is the only way for companies to close the skills gap within their employees and ensure they can keep up with changing customer demands, faster turnaround times, and digital trends. 

 

5 Key reasons employee skills development is the way forward for companies

 

Upskilling has become a strategic priority for businesses and individuals alike. Here are some key reasons driving this trend and examples of how these benefits can play out in real life. 

 

1. Future-proof the workforce

With technology advancing at lightning speed, today’s in-demand skills may become obsolete tomorrow. Companies that invest in upskilling help their employees stay ahead of the curve.

 

• For example, after her company switches to a hybrid model, a team leader completes a course on digital communication strategies. She has learned to run more effective virtual meetings and uses tools like Slack and Notion to reduce confusion and improve project visibility.

 

2. Boosts productivity and performance

Employees who regularly update their skills tend to be more confident, capable, and motivated. This leads to greater efficiency and fewer costly mistakes.

 

• For example, a junior employee frequently avoids raising issues due to fear of conflict. After attending a workplace communication workshop, he learns how to address challenges constructively. The result? Faster resolutions and improved team trust, leading to smoother project delivery.

 

3. Reduces employee turnover

People want to grow. When companies invest in their learning, employees feel valued and are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere.

 

In fact, 70% of employees are more likely to stay at a company that offers continuous training opportunities because it improves their sense of connection to the workplace. 

 

• For example, a call centre implements a training programme for junior staff. Within a year, turnover drops by 30%, and several agents are promoted to supervisory roles.

 

Have a look at our “Excellence in Customer Service” programme here. 

 

4. Support innovation and agility

Training encourages a growth mindset and helps employees approach problems with fresh perspectives. In fast-changing industries, agility is a competitive advantage.

 

• For example, after attending a design thinking workshop, a product team member suggests a new feature that solves a long-standing customer pain point. The idea is adopted, and the company sees a 15% increase in customer satisfaction scores.

 

5. Builds strong leadership pipeline

Tomorrow’s leaders need more than technical skills — they need to communicate clearly, manage diverse teams, and resolve issues confidently.

 

• For example, a high-potential employee is offered a place in a leadership development programme focusing on strategic communication and coaching. She steps into a team lead role within a year and successfully manages a multi-generational, multicultural team.

 

Top skills development programmes today

As mentioned earlier, the best way for companies to improve their employees’ skills is to invest in B2B upskilling programmes. 

 

MANCOSA offers several short courses intended to improve workers’ technical abilities and soft skills, some of which are: 

 

• Innovation in Project Management: This course teaches employees to manage unique challenges and come up with out-of-the-box solutions for projects, ultimately contributing to the success of the company. 

 

• Change Management: This programme is designed to empower workers to effectively manage change and to encourage innovation and creativity. It focuses on developing user-centric solutions that can help organisations transform in an increasingly digital world. 

 

• Professional Communication: This course is designed to enhance employees’ ability to communicate effectively in different settings. As a result, better communication can lead to increased productivity, fewer mishaps, and better output.  

 

Register for a skills development programme with MANCOSA

Businesses today need to have highly skilled employees in order to remain competitive and ensure their internal processes run as efficiently as possible. 

 

This is where short courses come in. You can have a look at MANCOSA’s many different short skills training programmes to help you or your employees upskill for the modern business world.