The findings from the OECD are further proof that we must do more to future-proof the workforce as the UK job market evolves. Contributor Kirstie Mackey, Head of LifeSkills – Barclays.
To thrive in the workplace of the future, people need to build their most ‘human’ skills. We don’t know exactly what the next decade’s jobs will look like yet but we know that transferable skills like proactivity, problem solving and creativity will be vital.
These human skills cannot be replicated by robots and will become even more valuable as global patterns of work change and automation, freelance working patterns and the average working age all increase.
Our own research has shown that the UK is facing a worrying skills gap in this area, with over half (57 percent) of UK adults not having the full set of employability skills. While schools and educators are helping to develop these skills in their students, people who are already in work also need support.
It’s vital that Government, educators and businesses work together to prepare workers of all ages with the core transferable skills that they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
