The post-COVID-19 work situation will never be the same as pre-COVID-19 times. Digital transformation is forcing companies to change their business models and has significantly changed the way traditional industries do business.
Banks and financial institutions have developed more online products and services. Companies in supply chains, manufacturing and logistics have started looking into automation and robotics, while retail firms and restaurants shifted to e-commerce platforms.
This has a direct impact on the workforce as the fundamental knowledge and skills required for these new solutions, such as digital skills, are different from what the existing workforce is equipped with. To close the skills gap, employees must proactively upskill and re-skill themselves to ensure they stay relevant and employable. They should learn to adapt to change and be more prepared for whatever crisis that may arise in the future.
employers and employees share the responsibility to upskill and re-skill
73% of respondents are confident that they have the transferable soft skills required to find a job at a different company or industry. This is also the lowest in the region. In Mainland China, 94% felt comfortable that they have the skills, and 86% of respondents in Singapore said the same.