In-Demand Skills for Today's New Workforce

As automation, digital transformation and a fast-evolving global economy reshape the job market, the most outstanding new talent will need a blend of technical and soft skills. Here’s what to look for—and how employers can support initiatives to future-proof their workforce.

1. Digital and technical literacy—even for non-technical employees.

With the rapid advancement of technology, digital literacy is becoming foundational for almost every job. Beyond basic computer skills, employers are seeking candidates with proficiency in areas like data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development. For example, familiarity with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will be increasingly valuable, even for roles not directly in tech.

And demand for employees who can leverage these technologies isn’t limited to tech companies. As the finance, healthcare, marketing and logistics industries adopt more automation, there will be a growing need for workers who are trained and certified to manage, maintain, and innovate on these systems.

2. Critical thinking and innovative problem solving.

Even as the workforce changes, some things stay consistent—and that includes the value of candidates who can analyze complex situations, evaluate information, and develop solutions. Critical thinking involves not only the ability to assess problems but also the creativity and resourcefulness to find effective solutions in challenging or ambiguous scenarios. As industries become more globalized and interconnected, the ability to solve multifaceted problems, often under tight deadlines, will set candidates apart.

Companies need workers who can approach challenges with a fresh perspective and navigate uncertainties with resilience. That means looking outside the usual sources, and opening job requirements to a wide range of degrees or work experience. And it can also mean supporting employees’ continuing education.

3. Emotional intelligence (EQ).

As workplaces become more diverse and remote work environments continue to grow, the ability to understand, communicate with, and motivate others is crucial. That’s why emotional intelligence, or EQ, is becoming just as crucial as technical skills for fostering teamwork, leadership, and customer relations.

Leaders with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to manage stress, navigate conflict, and maintain a positive work environment. For individual contributors, high EQ can translate to stronger collaboration, adaptability, and communication skills—all of which are critical for success in modern work settings.

4. Lifelong learning and adaptability.

The pace of change in the workforce is only accelerating. As industries evolve, employers need workers who are not only adaptable to new technologies and processes but also committed to continuous learning. A mindset of lifelong learning is necessary to stay competitive and keep up with emerging trends. This includes both formal education, such as taking courses and certifications, and informal learning, such as keeping up with industry news, reading books, or participating in professional networks.

Employees who can pivot easily and take on new challenges will be incredibly valuable in industries experiencing disruption—and supporting employees as they pursue upskilling, continuing education and advanced degrees can put your company at the forefront in the search for top talent.

The combination of digital literacy, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and adaptability will form the bedrock of the skills needed by new hires in the coming years. Employees who can combine technical expertise with the ability to problem-solve, communicate effectively, and adapt to change will have the best chances of thriving in future job markets, and Scholarship America can help you create education assistance opportunities that connect you with those lifelong learners.