Focusing on skills over jobs refers to the idea that organizations should focus on developing the skills of their workforce rather than solely looking for employees with specific job titles or experience. There are several reasons why organizations should focus on skills over jobs:
Rapidly changing job market
The job market is constantly changing, and new technologies and business models are creating new job roles and making some jobs obsolete. Data from the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Survey shows that companies expect to re-structure their workforce in response to new technologies (https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020). By focusing on skills, organizations can ensure that their workforce has the skills to adapt to these changes and succeed in the future.
Increased flexibility
When employees have a wide range of skills, they are more flexible and can adapt to new roles or responsibilities within the organization. This can help organizations become more agile and responsive to changing business needs.
Increased productivity
Employees with a wide range of skills are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work, as they can take on new challenges and contribute to the organization in various ways.
Better employee retention
When employees feel that their skills are valued and have opportunities to develop and advance, they are more likely to stay with the organization long-term.
Cost savings
Investing in employee skills can help organizations save costs in the long run, as they don't have to constantly recruit and train new employees to fill specific job roles.
Better team dynamics
Employees with various skills can work together more effectively and efficiently, leading to better team dynamics and overall productivity. By utilizing each employee's unique strengths, workplaces can achieve a harmonious synergy that leads to greater productivity and team dynamics. Collaboration succeeds when skill sets are blended together in an effective way.
Global Talent
Organizations that go beyond the traditional approach of hiring for specific jobs can reap numerous benefits. Global talent pools open doors to finding highly-skilled professionals regardless of their geographic location, allowing organizations access to top-notch employees that they may not have been able to find before.
To focus on skills over jobs, organizations may need to rethink their recruitment and development strategies and focus on hiring employees for their potential and developing their skills through training, mentoring, and other career development opportunities.
By focusing on developing the skills of their workforce, organizations can be more agile and adapt to change more quickly. Employees with a broad skill set are also more likely to be engaged in their work and less likely to experience burnout. Are you focusing on developing the skills of your workforce? If not, what steps can you take to start making this shift?
