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future-proof digital skills next decade
Digital Skills

8 Future-Proof Digital Skills for the Next Decade

Prepare for the next decade with these 8 digital skills. Discover the essential competencies that will help you stay ahead in a rapidly changing digital opportunity landscape.

Nelson Marteleira
August 23, 2024

According to a report by McKinsey & Company, by 2030, over 375 million workers worldwide might need to switch occupations due to automation and the fast-paced digital shift. This transformation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a reality that’s reshaping industries and job markets at an unprecedented rate. For those stuck in a career rut or fearing job obsolescence, the urgency to adapt and grow digital skills has never been more critical.

Digital Skills for the Next Decade
Jobs lost, jobs gained: What the future of work will mean for jobs, skills, & wages

In today's rapidly evolving digital world, staying ahead means continually upgrading your skillset. The days of relying solely on traditional job skills are long gone. The future belongs to those who can seamlessly transition into new roles that require tech-savvy expertise, even if they don't come from something other than a technical background. If you dream of a career that survives but thrives in this digital age, acquiring the right skills is your ticket to future-proofing your professional journey.

Jobs lost, jobs gained
Retraining and reskilling workers in the age of automation

This article highlights eight essential digital skills that will keep you relevant and competitive in the job market for the next decade. Whether you're looking to transition from an administrative role, escape the instability of gig work, or break free from a physically demanding job, these skills will lead you toward a more secure and fulfilling career.

Top 8 Future-Proof Digital Skills for the Next Decade

Ready to future-proof your career and stay ahead in the game? The world is moving fast, and so should you. Whether you’re eyeing a transition into tech or simply want to ensure you don’t get left behind, mastering the right digital skills is your key to unlocking new opportunities. But where do you start?

In this next section, we’ll break down eight essential skills that are not just trends but necessities for the next decade. These aren’t just for the tech-savvy or the coding wizards—these skills are for anyone looking to secure a stable, fulfilling career in a world where digital fluency is the new norm.

1. No-Code Development Skills

Imagine being able to build a website or app without writing a single line of code. No-code development is changing the game, especially for those feeling stuck or worried about being left behind in their careers. By 2024, over 65% of application development will be driven by low-code tools—a massive shift that opens doors for everyone, not just the tech-savvy.

1. No-Code Development Skills
Impressive Low-Code Statistics and Facts

No-code platforms like WordPress and Wix are designed to be so user-friendly that you can create simple websites effortlessly. Even without a tech background, you'll be amazed at what you can build. In fact, by 2024, 80% of non-IT professionals are expected to develop IT products and services.

Low Code Market
35 Must-Know Low-Code Statistics And Trends

Tools like Glide, Adalo, and Bubble aren't just apps—they're gateways to new possibilities. They are the tools that can turn your ideas into reality, whether a new business or a personal project. The market for low-code platforms is projected to generate $187 billion by 2030, showing how powerful this trend is.

And it doesn't stop there. With tools like Make and Zapier, automating workflows has never been easier. These platforms can reduce app development time by 90%, saving you time and money while boosting efficiency.

No-code tools unlock

No-code isn't just a skill; it's your ticket to a future-proof career where you can innovate, create, and thrive—all without writing a single line of code.

2. Gen AI

Imagine having a digital assistant that can predict trends, craft personalized content, and even help with decision-making. That's the power of Generative AI (Gen AI). It's not just for tech experts; it's becoming a must-have skill for anyone looking to stay competitive. By 2025, the global AI market is expected to reach $126 billion, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors.

2. Gen AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market

Gen AI tools like GPT and DALL-E aren't just buzzwords; they're reshaping industries. Whether you're in marketing, customer service, or content creation, these tools can boost your productivity and creativity.

Gen AI tools like GPT and DALL-E aren't just buzzwords

For those worried about job security or feeling stuck in a stagnant role, mastering Gen AI could be the game-changer you need. It's a skill that can open doors to new opportunities, allowing you to innovate and stay relevant in an ever-changing job market.

Gen AI Market Size
Market insights: Artificial Intelligence - Worldwide

And the best part? You don't need a tech background to start. Gen AI tools are designed to be user-friendly, so you can dive in and start benefiting immediately. This isn't just about learning a new tool; it's about future-proofing your career with skills that are in high demand.

3. Video Content Creation (Script writing, editing, marketing)

Did you know that by 2025, video will make up 82% of all internet traffic? That’s not just a stat—it’s a wake-up call for anyone looking to stay relevant in the digital world. Video content creation isn’t just about recording; it’s about telling a story that engages and converts.

“In fact, according to our research, video ads generate 12 times more shares than traditional image-based ads and a whopping 88% of marketers agree that video has improved their ROI.Over 80% of consumers say that they are more likely to engage with a video that speaks directly to them, which is why marketers are turning to AI-powered tools to create personalized content.”
Source: Video Marketing in 2024: Trends and Statistics You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Imagine crafting a compelling script, editing it to perfection, and marketing it to the right audience. With the rise of platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, video content is the new king of digital marketing.

For those worried about falling behind or stuck in a monotonous job, video skills can be your ticket to a dynamic and creative career. You don’t need to be a filmmaker to get started—just a willingness to learn and the proper guidance.

From scriptwriting to editing and marketing, mastering these skills opens up opportunities. It’s not just about keeping up; it’s about leading the charge in the digital content revolution.

4. Basic Project Management

Picture this: You're leading a team, setting deadlines, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. That's the essence of project management—an increasingly important skill, even if you're not in a traditional management role. By 2027, employers will need nearly 88 million individuals working in project management-oriented roles, according to the Project Management Institute.

Basic Project Management
Report: Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017–2027

Essential project management isn't about juggling endless tasks. It's about planning, executing, and closing projects effectively. Mastering project management can be your solution if you're overwhelmed by chaotic workflows or struggling to keep up with responsibilities. It's a skill that brings structure to your workday and can set you apart in any career.

Mastering project management
Report: Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017–2027

You don't need to be a natural-born leader to excel at project management. With the right tools and training, you can manage projects like a pro, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. It's all about making your work—and your career—more efficient and rewarding.

5. Digital Design Basics

Have you ever looked at a website or app and thought, "I could never create something like that"? Well, think again. Digital design basics are more accessible than you might imagine, and mastering them can be a game-changer. A well-designed interface can increase conversion rates by up to 200%, making this skill a must-have in today's digital world.

A study by Forester indicates that a well-designed user interface can raise your website’s conversion rate by up to 200% and yield conversion rates up to 400%.
If you
use UX design to satisfy enough people to boost your customer retention by as little as 5%, it will reward you with a profit increase of at least 25%.
A
2016 design study of 408 companies found that the more a company invested in and focused on design and usability, the more sales they saw.
Why UX Modernization is Important for E-commerce Businesses

You don't need to be a professional designer to make an impact. Learning the fundamentals of colour theory, typography, and layout can take you far. "I always thought design was out of my league, but with a little practice, I've started creating designs I'm proud of," shared one learner who transitioned from a factory job to a creative role.

5. Digital Design Basics

With tools like Canva and Figma, design has never been more accessible. You can start creating visually appealing content without any prior experience. So why not add a splash of creativity to your skill set and see where it takes you?

Canva users
19 Essential Canva Statistics You Need To Know in 2024

6. Digital Communication Tools (Cloud Sharing, Online Meetings)

In today’s world, staying connected isn’t just important—it’s essential. With remote work rising, mastering digital communication tools like cloud sharing and online meetings is non-negotiable. By 2023, it’s estimated that over 70% of the workforce will be working remotely at least five days a month, making these skills more relevant than ever.

98% of workers want to work remotely at least some of the time

Interestingly, workers’ preference for remote work aligns with this trend. A staggering 98% of workers expressed the desire to work remotely, at least part of the time [3]. This overwhelming figure reflects the workforce’s growing affinity towards remote work’s flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance.
Remote Work Statistics And Trends In 2024

Tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Drive aren’t just about staying in touch; they’re about enhancing collaboration and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

If you’re worried about being left behind in a digitally-driven job market or feeling overwhelmed by the tech demands of your current role, mastering these tools can be a game-changer. It’s not just about keeping up—it’s about thriving in a new work environment.

7. Basic CMS

Ever wondered how websites keep their content fresh and organized? That's where a Content Management System (CMS) comes into play. Knowing how to use a basic CMS like WordPress or Joomla can open doors, especially if you're eyeing a career shift into digital marketing or content creation. By 2026, it's predicted that the CMS market will be worth $123 billion, showing just how crucial this skill has become.

7. Basic CMS
Market Size & Trends

A CMS isn't just a tool for techies. It's designed for anyone who wants to manage website content without coding. If you're stuck in a role with limited growth or worried about your job becoming obsolete, mastering a CMS could be your ticket to a more dynamic career. It's a skill in demand across industries and can set you apart in the job market.

CMS Platforms by Market Share
Content Management System Statistics

The best part? It's easier than you think to get started. With just a little training, you can confidently manage and update website content, ensuring you stay relevant in a digital-first world.

8. Basic CRM and ERP

Managing customer relationships and business processes is at the heart of every successful company. That’s where knowing your way around a basic CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system comes in. By 2025, the CRM market alone is expected to reach $113 billion, showing just how vital this skill is in business.

8. Basic CRM and ERP
CRM All-In-One Software Market Growth

CRM systems like Salesforce or HubSpot aren’t just for sales teams—they’re tools that help streamline customer interactions and improve business efficiency. Learning CRM and ERP basics can open up new opportunities if you’re concerned about job stability or stuck in a stagnant role. These systems are essential in nearly every industry, and knowing how to use them can make you an indispensable asset to any team.

The best part? You don’t need an MBA to get started. 

Benefits of CRM
15 CRM Statistics And Facts You Need to Know in 2024

With some training, you can master the basics of CRM and ERP, helping you boost productivity and drive business success. It’s a skill set that enhances your current role and opens doors to new career paths.

Wrapping Up: Path to Future-Proof Digital Skills

The digital world is evolving faster than ever, and the skills you invest in today will determine your success tomorrow. Whether you aim to break free from a stagnant role, secure your job against automation, or stay ahead in a competitive market, these future-proof skills are your ticket. Embrace the journey and equip yourself with the tools to keep you relevant and thriving in the decade ahead.

NoCode Institute empowers you to master essential digital skills without coding. It helps you transition into tech-savvy roles and secure your future in the evolving job market. With tailored programs and expert guidance, it makes it easy to stay competitive and thrive in a digital-first world.

Get started with NoCode Institute today and future-proof your career with the skills that matter.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nelson Marteleira

Nelson is the co-founder NoCode Institute. He is an experienced NoCode specialist and developer with a solid portfolio. Nelson helps bring ideas to reality.

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