Upskilling: How staying up to date can help recession-proof your career

​With a recession almost certainly on the horizon, anticipated increase in competition for jobs and companies looking to retain high-performing staff, it’s important for employees and job seekers alike to think about how to stand out from the crowd. But are employees looking to upskill in 2023?

To find out, Peoplebank NZ ran a poll on our LinkedIn page asking followers if they were looking to upskill and learn a new programming language this year. With 65% of candidates answering yes, obviously staying current in industry is at the forefront of candidates’ minds. So, why is it important to keep on top of new technology?

There are several reasons why it's important for IT professionals to always be learning new languages and keeping their skills current. Here are some of the most important ones:

1. Keeping up with advancements: Technology is constantly evolving, and new languages and trends emerge all the time. IT professionals who stay on top of these changes are better equipped to leverage new tools and technologies to build better systems, automate processes, and increase efficiency.

2. Enhancing job opportunities: With the rapid pace of technological change, the demand for IT professionals with up-to-date skills and knowledge is high. By keeping up with the latest languages and trends, IT professionals can enhance their job opportunities and be more competitive in the job market.

3. Solving complex problems: Learning new languages and staying on top of trends can help IT professionals find innovative solutions to complex problems. By understanding the latest technologies and techniques, they can approach challenges in new ways and develop more efficient solutions.

4. Career growth: Continuously learning and expanding one's skillset can help IT professionals advance in their careers. By demonstrating a commitment to staying on top of trends and continuously improving their skills, they can position themselves for new opportunities and promotions.

5. Networking and collaboration: By participating in online communities, attending conferences and training sessions, and engaging with other IT professionals, individuals can expand their networks and collaborate with others who share their interests and passions. This can lead to new ideas, insights, and opportunities for professional growth.

In summary, staying on top of new languages and trends is critical for IT professionals to remain competitive in their field and to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry. By continuously learning and expanding their skillset, they can enhance their job opportunities, solve complex problems, advance their careers, and expand their networks. As always, for a confidential chat, feel free to get in touch with our team today.