Embracing technological change with upskilling

In today’s fast-paced business environment, technological advancements are reshaping the landscape of nearly every industry. From artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to blockchain and advanced data analytics, the pace of change is unprecedented.

And yet 62% of organisations have found it difficult to recruit talent within technology in the past year. A further 57% cited challenges finding the right skills.

For organisations striving to stay competitive, it’s essential not only to hire new talent with the right technology skills but also to focus on upskilling existing employees and offering effective training programmes for new recruits.

At Michael Page, we understand the critical role that continuous learning and development play in navigating this technological evolution. The importance of upskilling existing employees

When it comes to retaining top talent within tech, our Talent Trends survey revealed what organisations ranked as most important, citing career progression (40%) and training and development (17%) as key factors.

Upskilling your current workforce is more than just a trend; it’s a strategic imperative. Employees who have been with the company for years possess invaluable institutional knowledge and experience. Leveraging their expertise while equipping them with new technology skills can lead to significant advantages for your organisation.

Enhanced employee engagement and retention: Investing in employee development demonstrates a commitment to their career growth. When employees see opportunities for advancement and feel that their skills are being updated, they are more likely to stay with the company. This not only reduces turnover but also saves costs associated with hiring and training new staff.
Increased efficiency and productivity: As technology evolves, workflows and processes often become more streamlined and efficient. By upskilling your employees, you ensure that they are adept at using the latest tools and technologies, which can lead to increased productivity and better outcomes.
Future-proofing your workforce: The rapid pace of technological change means that skills can quickly become obsolete. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, you help future-proof your workforce against disruptions and prepare them to adapt to new challenges.
Enhanced innovation: Employees who are well-versed in the latest technologies are more likely to contribute innovative ideas and solutions. Upskilled employees can drive the development of new products, services, or processes, giving your organisation a competitive edge.

Developing effective training programmes for new employees

While upskilling current employees is crucial, effective training programmes for new recruits are equally important.

Our Talent Trends survey found almost a quarter (24%) of Technology professionals say training and development that is offered as part of their role is the most essential factor when considering accepting or applying for a role.

Ensuring that new employees are equipped with the necessary technology skills from the outset can help them become productive members of the team more quickly, and forms a key part of a competitive attraction strategy.

Tailored onboarding programmes: New hires should receive an onboarding experience that is tailored to their role and the technologies they will be using. This could include hands-on training sessions, interactive workshops, and access to online learning platforms. Providing a comprehensive introduction to your organisation’s technological ecosystem helps new employees integrate more smoothly and effectively.
Mentorship and support: Pairing new employees with experienced mentors can provide invaluable guidance and support. Mentors can help new hires navigate the complexities of their roles and offer insights into best practices and company-specific technologies. This not only accelerates the learning curve but also fosters a collaborative work environment.
Continuous learning opportunities: Technology is constantly evolving, and new employees need access to ongoing learning resources. Providing access to online courses, certifications, and industry conferences ensures that they can stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and continue to develop their technology skills.
Clear learning paths and goals: Establishing clear learning paths and goals for new employees helps them understand what is expected and how they can achieve proficiency in necessary technologies. Regular assessments and feedback sessions can help track progress and address any skill gaps promptly.

Implementing a technology skills training strategy

To effectively upskill existing employees and train new recruits, organisations should adopt a strategic approach to technology skills development. Here are some key steps to consider:

Assess skills and identify gaps: Start by assessing the current skill levels of your employees and identifying any gaps between their current capabilities and the skills required for future success. This can be done through surveys, skills assessments, or performance reviews.
Develop a training plan: Based on the assessment, create a training plan that outlines the specific skills that need to be developed and the methods for achieving them. This plan should include both formal training programs and informal learning opportunities.
Invest in training resources: Invest in high-quality training resources, such as online courses, workshops, and industry certifications. Ensure that these resources are relevant to the technologies that are critical to your business.
Monitor and evaluate: Regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of your training programs. Gather feedback from participants and measure the impact on performance and productivity. Use this information to make any necessary adjustments and improvements.

In a world where technology is continuously advancing, upskilling existing employees and offering effective training programmes for new recruits are essential strategies for organisational success. By investing in your workforce’s technology skills, you not only enhance their engagement and productivity but also ensure that your organisation remains competitive and innovative.

At Michael Page, we are committed to helping businesses navigate these changes and develop strategies that foster a skilled and adaptable workforce. Embracing the importance of continuous learning and development is not just a choice but a necessity in the ever-evolving technological landscape.

Explore candidate sentiments and trends shaping the technology market in our Talent Trends report and interactive tool.

Discover Talent Trends