You can have the best tech in the world, but without the people to run it, it’s just a pile of expensive hardware and software.
It’s imperative to make sure your people have the skills to make it work and keep it sustainable.
The digital skills gap is a major hurdle for businesses today. The demand for tech-savvy employees is skyrocketing, but the supply? Not so much.
So how do you attract and develop the talent you need for digital transformation?
The Growing Demand for Digital Talent
From AI to cloud computing, digital skills have become non-negotiable for businesses looking to stay competitive. In fact, by 2025, it’s estimated that over 149 million new digital jobs will emerge, but finding qualified professionals to fill them is going to be a massive challenge.
Closing the digital skills gap could determine whether your business thrives or falls behind.
A Strong Strategy to Attract Top Digital Talent
To attract the right talent, you need a solid strategy, which goes beyond compensations. Top digital talent also looks for flexibility, growth opportunities, and a forward-thinking work environment.
Are you able to offer:
- Competitive compensation
- Flexible work arrangements – Remote work is an expectation.
- Professional development opportunities
Hiring and retaining digital talent would costs 1.5-2 times the employee’s salary to replace them. So getting your talent acquisition strategy right the first time can save you big in the long run.
Up-skilling Existing Employees
Up-skilling your existing employees is often more cost-effective than hiring—and it has other benefits, too. When you invest in your people, you’re not just improving their skills—you’re boosting morale and loyalty. Up-skilled employees are more engaged, and they’re far less likely to jump ship.
According to data, companies that invest in employee up-skilling see an average ROI of over 200%. Think of it as you’re investing in a stronger, more loyal workforce. Plus, your team already knows your business; they just need the tools to help take it digital.
Effective Training and Development Programs
It’s not enough to tell people to “learn digital skills” and expect results, you need structured training and development (T&D) programs that make learning accessible and relevant.
Develop a comprehensive mix of T&D program comprising online courses, workshops, mentorship programs, etc.
Companies that use a blend of online training and hands-on workshops see a 60% higher retention of digital skills compared to those relying on just one method. Make learning continuous and practical—give your team a reason to stay engaged.
Retaining Digital Talent
The turnover rate for digital professionals is high—30% on average—because they have plenty of options. If your workplace doesn’t foster growth, collaboration, and innovation, your talent will leave for a company that does.
Yes, compensation matters, but digital talent wants:
- Career Growth: If they don’t see a future in your company, they’re not sticking around.
- A Positive Work Environment: Create a space where people feel valued, where their ideas matter, and where innovation is encouraged.
- Collaboration: Digital professionals thrive in environments where they can work with and learn from others.
If you want to keep your top talent, make sure they feel invested in. Foster a culture where digital skills are prioritized, where learning is ongoing, and where employees see a clear path forward.
Invest in People, Not Just Tech
Bridging the digital skills gap requires intention.
Be proactive in your recruitment, invest in the development of your existing workforce, and create an environment where digital talent wants to stay. Invest in people, create opportunities for growth.
Close the skills gap, grow your talent, and make digital transformation a reality.
This article is written by Christina Lim, the author of the book Not a Marketing Textbook. She is a business advisor and startup mentor, she has led multiple digital transformation initiatives in her career.
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