As graduates look to make an immediate impact at the start of their careers, this article will focus on the key skills needed to survive and thrive in a fast-paced technology enterprise.
As well as technical skills around cloud computing, data analysis, cybersecurity, RPA, IoT and machine learning, the emergence of blockchain, the metaverse and Web 3.0 will demand new skills that must be adopted.
In addition, graduate employees will need to prioritize developing their soft skills, centered around collaboration and communication, and skills that focus on user experience and design.
Technology skills for the future of work
Increasingly, enterprise decision-making and professional relationships are leveraging technology. This will accelerate moving forward, with enterprise efficiency will be driven by technology investments.
Commenting on why technology-related skills are paramount for the future of work, Adolfo Calviño, VP and Country Head of Spain and Portugal at HCLTech, says: “Technology is the future, and it will be the enabler of most business processes. It will be impossible to run or participate in the future of work without technical skills.”
The type of skills and demand for them is going to vary significantly.
“From an HCLTech perspective in the Iberia region, we are interested in graduates with artificial intelligence skills, data skills, cybersecurity skills, IoT skills and everything related to connectivity and an understanding of traditional IT systems,” continues Calviño.
No graduate will have significant experience in one discipline and so it’s imperative that companies, like HCLTech, foster graduate talent and help them specialize in a certain technology and industry field.
“Skill specialization, knowledge of the business and industry verticals will be key to thrive in the future of work,” adds Calviño.
The importance of soft skills
Beyond technology skills, graduates—just like senior leadership—will need to develop soft skills.
Soft skills are crucial for several reasons.
The main one is being able to effectively communicate the benefit of different technology investments to the business, helping them understand what the technology is, how it works and why it will add business value.
It’s also important to be empathetic and understand how technology disciplines will solve business and human problems.
Those graduates who demonstrate innovative thinking and are curious with an entrepreneurial spirit have a strong soft skill foundation.
“In a global team with multiple cultures and languages, developing soft skills is paramount. Often, these are more challenging to train than technology skills,” explains Calviño.
He adds: “I’ve been working for more than 25 years in the technology industry, and you must continually analyze yourself to improve areas like soft skills. It’s a continual journey to understand how you can work better as a leader and as a team. Don’t lose your curiosity around the evolution of technology.”
Nurturing and developing talent at HCLTech
For years, HCLTech has run several graduate and skill program initiatives in India, including HCL’s TechBee, a 12-month training program for entry level IT jobs, and the First Careers Program, a job training program for career graduates.
“We are looking at bringing these programs to Spain and Portugal and have been developing relationships with the most relevant universities in the region. We are connecting with the alumni and looking to set up grants to develop talent in Iberia. Diversity of talent is also a priority for us at HCLTech,” continues Calviño.
The roles defining the future of work
According to Calviño, the future is here.
“Skills and roles around the emergence of Generative AI, data, cybersecurity and IoT are now needed, and they will define the future of work.
“The most important aspect to consider for future roles is being able to connect business needs with technology.”
He adds: “Moving forward, every role will be technology-enabled, and this will require everyone to have technology skills. The future requires a dynamic approach to talent and a deep connection between technology and helping businesses achieve their goals.”
