As the business world becomes more technologically advanced, employees should improve their tech skills to stay productive. However, one in 5 Gen-Z workers lack basic tech skills and many are reluctant to admit their unfamiliarity with modern technology. This lack of tech skills causes project delays and makes companies lose money.
Acquiring proficiency in even one tech skill can enhance your career prospects and open up exciting new opportunities. Which tech skills are you going to learn? Here’s a list of some of the most in-demand tech skills you can pick up easily:
1.IoT proficiency
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of smart devices that can “talk” to each other as well as exchange information. This framework connects physical objects with the digital world and improves data-driven decision-making (DDDM). Smart homes, self-driving cars, and wearable devices are some examples of IoT in action. This industry’s taking off and you should consider becoming proficient in this industry. You can easily make $80,000 annually with IoT specialty.
2.Basic programming
Teaching yourself a programming language isn’t difficult anymore. With a working laptop and a reliable internet connection, you can learn any programming language at home and advance your career with this essential tech skill. For instance, the length of time to learn HTML can be as little as a few weeks; you can teach yourself the basics of HTML in a month. However, getting into a coding bootcamp helps you gain mastery over this language faster than a self-taught student.
Programming remains one of the most sought-after skills around the globe. You can easily turn into a front-end, back-end, or full-stack developer with enough knowledge of computer languages.
3.UI/UX design
Creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces is necessary to enhance user experience. That’s why many companies hire UI/UX designers who can make their websites more accessible and attractive to a larger portion of the online customer base. You can earn $70,000 to $100,000 annually. With the help of online courses, you can easily become skilled in UI/UX design.
4.Data engineering and visualization
Data-driven decision-making (DDDM) isn’t a fancy buzzword anymore; companies need experts specializing in data engineering and visualization. That’s why data engineers are paid $130,000 a year for their services. As a data engineer, you’ll collect data, optimize data storage, and find different means to convert data into useful information. So, gain expertise in the following:
- Data-processing technologies, such as HADOOP
- Programming languages, such as SQL and Python
- Cloud computing platforms, such as Amazon Web Services
5.Cybersecurity
As more companies become vulnerable to data breaches and hacking attempts because of rapid digitalization, there’s no skill more valuable than cybersecurity to protect the consumer’s information right now. Cybersecurity experts excel in predicting, recognizing, and combating threats from cybercriminals. This job pays $110,000+ a year and has become of the most sought-after skills by employers in the finance, IT, and e-commerce sectors.
You can get an online certificate in cybersecurity and advance your career with this skill. Many analysts get CISA, CISSP, Ethical Hacking, and other certifications to learn this vital skill.
6.Artificial intelligence and machine learning
AI makes workers more productive and boosts the efficiency of repetitive procedures. You can pursue online courses offering AI and ML skills to hone your tech acumen easily. As a machine learning engineer, your job will revolve around developing AI systems capable of learning and growing smarter. That’s why this job now pays over $100,000.
With proficiency in AI and ML, you’ll help your employers make data-based predictions and base business decisions on statistics rather than intuition.
7.Blockchain development
Contrary to a popular misconception, blockchain has applications beyond cryptocurrency. Blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that allows for the tamper-proof recording of monetary transactions across multiple platforms and devices. As a decentralized database, it can revolutionize the way modern-day banks operate. That’s why blockchain-related jobs have grown exponentially since 2019.
As a blockchain developer, you can develop decentralized apps (dApps) and smart contracts. Devs are paid $146,000 annually on average, and you can easily learn this skill via online courses.
8.Cloud engineering
Many companies are transitioning toward cloud storage solutions, while others are building products directly in the cloud for better security, access, and portability. It’s assumed that over 90% of business organizations use the cloud in one way or another. That’s why you should study cloud computing and become a cloud engineer. You can learn how to build, maintain, and update the infrastructure for cloud computing. Cloud engineers easily make more than $120,000 annually with their skills.
9.Product management
There’s no single definition of product management, and this tech skill depends on your role in your company. Product management generally involves developing and launching a product or service for your customers. Product managers, earning between $100,000 and $130,000 a year, are involved in the lifestyle of a product. As a product manager, you will identify market trends, conduct a few surveys, evaluate customers’ data, and idealize the perfect product for your customer base.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious beginner, working on your tech skills will bolster your career in the business industry. If you want to stay ahead in the ever-evolving tech landscape, learning even one tech skill is the way forward for you. You can study blockchain, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and even data engineering & visualization. Focus on learning a programming language, such as HTML, so you can update your résumé. That’s how you embark on your journey of professional development.
