In the rapidly evolving job market, the demand for core skills is more critical than ever.
In the recent World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 cognitive skills top the list of those deemed to be of greatest importance for workers in 2023.
“There’s more of a focus and an interest in having people with analytical thinking, people with creativity,” Saadia Zahidi, Managing Director of the World Economic Forum said in a recent interview.
Analytical thinking is considered to be a core skill by more companies than any other skill, making up, on average, 9.1% of the core skills reported by companies.
Creative thinking comes second, ahead of three self-efficacy skills – resilience, flexibility and agility; motivation and self-awareness; and curiosity and lifelong learning – which recognise the importance of workers’ ability to adapt to disrupted workplaces.
At Deakin University’s Business Development Clinic (BDC), we are dedicated to equipping our students with these essential skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute to the success of your business.
The BDC offers a unique blend of academic theory and practical consulting experience, designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Our students engage directly with small and medium-sized enterprises, just like yours, working on live projects that require them to assess business challenges critically and develop innovative solutions. This hands-on approach fosters analytical and creative thinking, enabling students to tackle complex problems with confidence once on the job.
Our program emphasises active learning and self-awareness, encouraging students to continuously reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement. By engaging in regular feedback sessions and self-assessment exercises, students enhance their ability to listen actively and communicate effectively. This process not only builds their confidence but also prepares them to collaborate successfully in diverse team environments.
Leadership and systems thinking are integral components of the BDC experience. Students present their strategic plans to clients, answering questions and providing actionable recommendations. This real-world interaction helps them develop leadership skills and a comprehensive understanding of business systems, preparing them to take on leadership roles and contribute to organisational success.
By integrating the core skills identified in the Future of Jobs report, the BDC ensures that graduates are not only job-ready but also future-ready. Our curriculum evolves with the changing demands of the job market, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business environment. Investing in graduates from the BDC means investing in a workforce that is prepared to drive your business forward.
For more insights into the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 visit https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2023/