In an era of rapid digital transformation, investing in #upskilling is not just a choice, but an imperative for organisations aiming to stay ahead of the curve. The concept of upskilling – the process of learning new #skills or training existing skills – is vital for all organisations, including #associations. This is especially true in the European Year of Skills, a time when digital and green technology skills are in high demand.
Why upskilling is imperative?
With an accelerated advancement in technologies like #AI and automation, many traditional business activities and associated skillsets have become outdated. To remain successful, organisations must adapt and upskill their workforce to match these new operating methods. By investing in upskilling, associations can equip their employees and members with the necessary skills to navigate an ever-changing digital landscape.
The World Economic Forum asserts that upskilling and #reskilling initiatives are crucial for economic recovery in the post-pandemic world, capable of adding a massive $6.5 trillion to the global GDP and creating 5.3 million new jobs by 2030. Organisations are, therefore, compelled to invest in upskilling and employee development to cultivate the workforce they need internally.
Upskilling in associations
Associations, by their very nature, have a broad network of members from diverse backgrounds and fields. This diversity can be leveraged to create an environment of shared learning and growth. Here are a few strategies that associations can adopt to upskill their employees and members effectively:
Invest in continuous learning and development: Associations should prioritise ongoing learning and development for their employees. This could be achieved by providing access to online courses, webinars, and workshops. It's also beneficial to encourage employees to attend relevant conferences and seminars, where they can learn about the latest trends in their field.
Leverage technology: Embrace the potential of digital technologies and online learning platforms. Providing members with access to online courses or webinars can help them improve their skillsets. Encourage the use of these technologies and provide support to those who are less familiar with digital tools.
Collaborate with experts: Seek partnerships with experts or organisations that can provide specialised training. This will not only improve the skills of your team and members but also enhance the reputation of your association.
Foster a culture of peer-to-peer learning: Encourage members to learn from each other. This could be achieved through networking events or online platforms where members can share their insights and experiences. Peer-to-peer learning can also provide opportunities for mentoring, where more experienced members guide and support those who are less experienced.
Provide recognitions and incentives: Acknowledge the efforts of your team and members in upskilling. This could be through certifications, badges, or other forms of recognition. Providing incentives for learning can also motivate members to take a proactive role in their personal and professional development.
Encourage feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your team and members. This can help you understand their learning needs and preferences, and provide insights on how to improve your upskilling initiatives.
Upskilling is an essential component in the growth strategy of any association. By investing in the skills and competencies of their team and members, associations can enhance their relevance, improve their services, and contribute to the broader EU skills strategy. After all, a skilled and competent team and membership base is an association's most valuable asset.
Leverage the #EUYearofSkills as a launchpad to upskill your team and members, keeping your association dynamic, competitive, and ready to face future challenges head-on.
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