20 Essential Skills To Advance Your Professional Career

As the business world evolves, the skills and qualifications a professional possesses have a direct impact on the positions available to them. Developing new skills and seeking out certifications to expand their expertise can not only increase hireability but also set a professional up for long-term success.

With the job market changing on a regular basis and new technology emerging constantly, knowing which skills will have longevity is harder than ever.

As experts, the members of Forbes Business Council have experience upskilling and reskilling in response to a changing business world. Below, 20 of them name specific skills or professional certifications they recommend professionals obtain to better advance their careers.

1. Artificial Intelligence

Every executive who wants to advance their career better be investing in AI knowledge, whether that be courses to be more fluent or certifications. Throughout the C-suite, every person should be well-versed in what AI means to the companies they work in and the world they live in. Every board member should also do the same. Don’t just hire someone knowledgeable, be knowledgeable! – Mary Kier, ZRG Partners, LLC

2. Communication

While technical certifications and skills are in high demand globally, the art of strong communication is universally essential for career advancement. As our world is fueled more by AI, professionals can leverage these tools to hone their communication skills, develop clear and concise messages and reach their desired audience. Don’t forget to also listen, lean in and be genuinely curious. – Jenna Saucedo-Herrera, greater:SATX Regional Economic Partnership

3. The Ability To Learn

One primary skill is the ability to learn. It does not require a specific certification, yet it can easily be verified by being able to answer questions on the projects you have accomplished and what you learned. Having a diverse background and a career that involves changing your skills to match the type of skills required for the job are good indicators of the ability to learn. – Gaidar Magdanurov, Acronis

4. Adaptability

I recommend mastering the ability to learn rapidly and effectively apply that knowledge. Our dynamic environment is going to challenge us to be highly adaptive, so the ability to promptly learn and apply new skills will not only drive professional growth but also enrich personal growth. This skill is the ultimate future-proofing strategy. – Vibhor Kapoor, AdRoll

5. Digital Ethics

Obtain a certification in digital ethics. The more technology becomes intertwined with business, the more an understanding of the ethical concerns of AI, data and digital tools can help you be unique. It is helpful to understand this knowledge as fundamental to both accountable innovation and career advancement. – Chris Kille, EO Staff

6. Generative AI

Learn ChatGPT and make it one of your essential software skills, as it’s right up there with the “big three” of PowerPoint, Word and Excel. There are lots of quick and inexpensive instruction options available, and the boost that you’ll get in current, essential and highly useful at work abilities will be invaluable. It will also enhance your economic value. – Dr. David Lenihan, Tiber Health

7. Data Literacy

In a rapidly changing job market, data literacy is crucial for career advancement. The ability to understand and interpret data can empower professionals to make informed decisions, drive strategic growth and stay competitive. A certification in data analytics enhances problem-solving skills, increases value to employers and ensures relevance in a data-driven landscape. – Glenn Gonsalves, RedSwitches

8. Data Analytics

I recommend obtaining a certification in data analytics. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, this skill is crucial for analyzing trends, making informed decisions and staying competitive, thus advancing one’s career in a rapidly evolving job market. – Eran Mizrahi, ingredient brothers

9. Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is crucial, as being able to interpret finances, data, forecasting and modeling lets you make informed decisions and speak with confidence. Mastering these skills helps you back your ideas with solid numbers and drive impactful outcomes. In an ever-changing job market, this expertise not only sets you apart but also enhances your strategic influence and career advancement. – Sufian Chowdhury, Kinetik

10. Written And Verbal Communication

In today’s ever-shifting business landscape, it’s crucial for professionals to develop their written and verbal communication skills. The ability to clearly convey your message in a variety of mediums is essential for success, whether it be over email, in a presentation or while using generative AI. As technology continues to develop, so will our need to communicate well and be clearly understood. – Kent Ingle, Southeastern University

“20 Essential Skills To Advance Your Professional Career,” outlines key skills that professionals need to cultivate in order to grow and succeed in their careers. To explore these essential skills, you can read Tracy Price’s full article on Council Post: Bidirectional EVs Could Drive Business Value To Your Front Door (forbes.com)