Real Leaders

The Hunt for Talents is Ushering in a New Era

Market forecasts have a common denominator – it is the word “change.” There has been an increased focus on performance management, employee engagement, and development. Among these activities has been a war for talent. By 2030, the lack of qualified workers could leave 85 million jobs empty. It is now more important than ever to develop innovative solutions and attract the right talent to ensure success.

Why IQ is not enough?

It is said that the world has never changed so fast, and on the other hand, it will never change so slowly again. We are judged today somewhat differently than in the past, not only according to how smart we are and what kind of education or expertise we have but also from the perspective of how we manage ourselves and others. Finding the perfect balance between being in touch with your own emotions and recognizing the emotions of those around us may be key to success in the professional world. Gone are the days when qualifications and results came first, now employers are looking for a workforce with exceptional soft skills, including the ability to communicate, give feedback and make meaningful connections. Individuals with a high EQ have a head start when it comes to achieving their goals, as they are able to better connect with their colleagues, clients, and target audience. A computer may be able to outwit a grandmaster in chess, but it still lacks the ability to understand the query “Do you want to play?” as it cannot comprehend the game being proposed. Technology can be capable of making our work more efficient, but it can’t replace the human touch. The ability to ask the right questions of machines, as well as to collaborate as a team and with the customer, are dramatically needed skills. Therefore, a valued competency in employees is both the ability to discover meaning and create meaning, as well as unconventional and adaptive thinking.

An Employee Shouldn’t Be Seen as a Piggy Bank

People are an organization’s most valuable resource. Rather than viewing them as a financial burden, they should be recognized as an investment. According to the World Economic Forum, more than 1.3 billion people worldwide lack basic digital skills. Companies need to get with the times and equip all departments with tech-savvy employees. In fact, every area, not just IT, will need personnel well-versed in technology. Amidst a scarcity of talent, businesses that want to stay ahead of the competition must invest in upskilling their workforce. They should not only focus on what kind of employees they need but also understand those already employed. At the end of the day, they are all searching for something beyond a paycheck – a sense of purpose. Rather than feeling like a commodity, they crave to be recognized, heard, and valued.