The future of work is now— how to stay ahead
We used to talk about the “future of work” like it was coming someday soon. But it’s already here.
From artificial intelligence to automation, digital transformation is reshaping how we work, what we do, and the skills employers are hiring for right now. And if there’s one theme across all industries and role types, it’s this:
👉 Digital skills aren’t optional—they’re essential.
Whether you’re in administration, operations, education, healthcare, marketing, trades or tech, building your digital confidence is one of the smartest moves you can make.
🚀 Why Are Digital Skills So In-Demand?
Digital skills help businesses work smarter, faster and more efficiently. They’re no longer just for “IT people”—they’re now part of almost every job.
Here’s why they’re topping the skills lists globally:
- AI and automation are changing workflows, reducing manual tasks, and creating new roles entirely
- Remote and hybrid work require fluency in online tools and platforms
- Data is king—organisations are making decisions based on data insights, not gut instinct
- Cybersecurity risks are growing, so digital awareness and safe practices are critical
- Customer expectations are digital-first—whether you’re in retail, HR, finance or education
🔧 What Digital Skills Are in Demand?
These are some of the top digital capabilities being sought after across industries, according to global workforce reports and platforms like LinkedIn and O*Net:
🧠 Core Digital Skills (needed across most roles)
- Using cloud-based platforms (e.g. Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Zoom, Teams)
- Digital communication and collaboration tools (e.g. Slack, Trello, Canva, Asana)
- Data literacy – reading and interpreting dashboards or spreadsheets
- Online safety and cybersecurity awareness
- Social media and digital presence for networking or branding
📊 Data & Analytics Skills
- Excel and Google Sheets (intermediate to advanced)
- Power BI, Tableau or other visualisation tools
- CRM tools like Salesforce or HubSpot
- Basic SQL or data querying knowledge
🖥️ Automation & AI Awareness
- Understanding how tools like ChatGPT or AI-driven platforms work
- Using automation tools like Zapier or Notion to streamline tasks
- AI prompting and content review for knowledge workers
🧩 Specialist Tech Skills (for digital and tech-centric roles)
- Programming languages (Python, JavaScript, HTML/CSS)
- UX/UI design tools (Figma, Adobe XD)
- Cloud computing (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
- Cybersecurity protocols and tools
- Digital marketing platforms (Google Ads, Meta Business Suite, SEO tools)
👩💼 What This Means for You
You don’t need to become a coder (unless you want to). But you do need to understand the digital tools, systems and trends shaping your industry—and be ready to adapt.
Here’s what that could look like across different roles:
- Admin & support roles: Comfort with cloud tools, virtual meeting platforms, shared document systems, basic reporting
- Project managers: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, Smartsheet; data dashboards; AI for planning and time-saving
- Marketing & comms: Social media strategy, content management systems, Google Analytics, email marketing tools
- Finance & HR: HRIS or accounting software, payroll platforms, AI for screening or reporting, cybersecurity awareness
- Trades & field roles: Use of mobile apps for scheduling, job logging, safety checks; GPS tools or digital compliance platforms
- Healthcare & education: Telehealth or digital learning systems, data privacy awareness, digital record-keeping
The takeaway? Every role now has a digital element—and the more confident you are, the more future-ready you’ll be.
🔍 How to Find Out Which Digital Skills Matter for You
Here’s how to research what’s relevant in your role or industry—without guessing.
1. Use LinkedIn’s Job Explorer
Search for jobs in your area or profession and review what tools, systems or digital competencies appear repeatedly.
👉 Tip: Even if you’re not applying yet, treat it as research.
2. Ask ChatGPT or another AI tool
Try a prompt like:
“What digital skills are in demand for a [job title] in [industry] in Australia?”
You’ll get a solid starting point you can cross-check elsewhere.
3. Explore O*Net Online and Bright Outlook
These US-based tools are goldmines of role insights and translate well to the Australian and New Zealand market.
- O*Net Online: Search by job title and explore required tech and digital skills
- Bright Outlook: Focuses on roles with high growth and strong future demand
4. Talk to Recruiters and Hiring Managers
Ask what tools and platforms are “must-knows” for people in your field—and what’s considered a nice-to-have.
5. Look at Training Providers
TAFE, LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and even YouTube can help you upskill quickly and affordably.
🛠️ How to Start Building Digital Skills (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)
- Pick one skill or tool to explore each month—don’t try to learn it all at once
- Apply it in real life: Can you automate a task, build a spreadsheet, or create a simple graphic?
- Add it to your CV and LinkedIn once you’re confident—you’re building digital credibility
- Stay curious: The tools may change, but your ability to learn is the real asset
🌟 Digital Confidence Is Career Confidence
You don’t need to become a tech expert—you just need to stay open, curious, and willing to learn. Digital skills aren’t just about keeping up—they’re about unlocking new ways of working, creating, and connecting.
In a world of constant change, your ability to adapt is your superpower. And building your digital skillset is one of the best ways to future-proof your career.
Advice from our Experts 