COVID-19: Do employees need reskilling for the new workplace?
With many countries starting to open up after a month of lock-downs and partial lock-downs, some companies have resorted to employees working from home but with this new skills are needed. Talent Match CEO, Allen Kendunga joins CNBC Africa for more.
Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:19:39 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- The urgency of upskilling in response to the digital workplace shift accelerated by COVID-19.
- The importance of reskilling existing employees to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
- The role of adaptability and innovation in driving success in the post-pandemic business landscape.
As countries around the world begin to open up after months of lockdowns and partial lockdowns, the workplace is undergoing a significant transformation. Many companies have embraced remote work as a more permanent solution, leading to a growing need for employees to acquire new skills to thrive in this evolving environment. The CEO of Talent March, Alain Kendunga, sheds light on the importance of upskilling and reskilling employees in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even before the onset of the pandemic, there was a noticeable demand for reskilling and upskilling in the workforce. However, COVID-19 has accentuated the necessity for employees to adapt to the new digital workplace. With remote work and social distancing becoming the norm, employees must familiarize themselves with tools like Zoom and Skype to collaborate effectively. The transition to a digital-centric workspace has become imperative for individuals to remain competitive and productive in today's business landscape.
Kendunga emphasizes the urgency for companies to invest in upskilling their employees to ensure their adaptability and efficiency. While some organizations have made progress in integrating digital tools like Google Docs, others are still struggling to keep up. In a time when businesses are facing financial challenges and slower operations, the need to accelerate the upskilling process is crucial to maintain productivity and competitiveness.
The CEO highlights the importance of reskilling the existing workforce as a means to drive productivity and innovation. Many companies are refraining from hiring new employees and instead focusing on empowering their current staff with the necessary digital skills. By equipping employees with the tools and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape, organizations can position themselves for success in the post-COVID era.
When discussing the impact on new graduates entering the workforce, Kendunga expresses optimism towards their adaptability to the digital age. While younger individuals are inherently familiar with digital technologies, the challenge lies with the older generation accustomed to traditional work methods. Companies are recognizing the need to attract more young talent to expedite the transition to a digital-first workplace, where adaptability and quick learning are essential traits.
Adaptability emerges as a central theme in the conversation, with Kendunga emphasizing its significance in the post-pandemic business environment. The ability to pivot swiftly and innovate not only applies to employees but also extends to service delivery and product offerings. Companies must prioritize adaptability as a core competency to thrive in an ever-changing market landscape.
The discussion shifts towards automation and its potential impact on employment, particularly in the informal sector that employs a significant portion of the population in sub-Saharan Africa. While automation may replace certain repetitive jobs, Kendunga underscores that new opportunities and roles will emerge as a result. By embracing automation, industries like agriculture and finance can streamline processes and create new job roles that require human oversight and expertise.
Kendunga highlights the need for continuous innovation to drive job creation and harness the potential of automated technologies. While some jobs may be displaced by automation, the evolution of new roles and responsibilities necessitates a flexible and agile workforce. By investing in innovation and upskilling initiatives, companies can not only adapt to the changing landscape but also catalyze economic growth and employment opportunities.