11 May 2023 • 4 min

Upskilling and reskilling in the development of new competences and professional skills

Upskilling and reskilling are two terms that refer to training and educational processes aimed at developing the skills of employees in order to better adapt to the changing needs of the labor market.

Upskilling and reskilling - cover of the entry

What is Upskilling?

Upskilling involves developing the skills already possessed by the employee so that they are able to perform more complex tasks or operate in more demanding conditions. For example, a person working in the technology sector can participate in programming courses in order to acquire new skills and better position in the labor market.

Reskilling - what is it?

Reskilling, in turn, is a training process that involves teaching employees completely new skills that will allow them to change their career direction or take a job in another sector. For example, a person working in the manufacturing sector can take courses related to the operation of industrial machinery or electricity to be able to work in the construction or energy sector.

In both cases, upskilling and reskilling, it is essential to broaden the competence of employees to enable them to adapt to the changing demands of the labour market and ensure employment in the future.

The development of new competences is the key to success

The development of new competencies is crucial in the labor market for several reasons:

  1. Dynamic changes in the labour market: Nowadays, the labor market is constantly changing. New technologies, changing trends and growing industries mean that employees need to be able to adapt to new requirements and develop their skills on an ongoing basis.
  2. Competitiveness: Nowadays, competition in the labor market is very strong. Having additional, new competencies increases the chances of finding a job or promotion in the current job.
  3. High added value: Employees with new, developed competencies bring high added value to their employer. They can perform their tasks more efficiently, take on more complex challenges, as well as contribute new ideas and innovative solutions.
  4. Career prospects: The development of new competencies can also open the door to new career prospects. This gives employees the opportunity to develop their skills and qualifications, which can lead to promotions, job changes or even industry changes.
  5. Challenges of the future: With technological progress and innovation, many professions are becoming automated or disappearing. Developing new competencies enables employees to adapt to these changes and avoid job losses.

All these factors make the development of new competencies crucial in the labor market, and having them is becoming more and more demanded and desired by employers.

Upskilling and reskilling methods

There are many methods of upskilling and reskilling that employers can use to develop the skills of their employees. One of them may be mentoring programs. Mentoring programs allow employees to learn from more experienced colleagues or managers. Mentors can share their knowledge, experience and skills, as well as help develop their mentee's career.

Check out our offer mentoring programs for individuals.

Why implement upskilling and reskilling? Benefits for employees and employers

The implementation of upskilling and reskilling programs can bring many benefits to both employees and employers. Here are some of them:

Benefits for employees from the implementation of upskilling and reskilling

  1. Career Development: It allows you to acquire new skills and knowledge, which allows you to develop your career and advance to higher positions.
  2. Increasing value in the labor market: Having new skills and qualifications increases attractiveness for employers and increases the chances of finding a more rewarding job.
  3. Motivation and Commitment: Employer support in skills and career development can increase motivation and commitment to the job.
  4. Employment Security: Having new skills and qualifications increases the chances of staying in employment and surviving in a changing job market.

Benefits for employers from the implementation of upskilling and reskilling

  1. Performance Enhancement: Having highly skilled employees increases efficiency and productivity at work.
  2. Increasing innovation: Having employees with new skills and qualifications increases the innovation of the organization and allows the introduction of new solutions and technologies.
  3. Increasing competitiveness: Having employees with new skills and qualifications allows you to compete in the labor market and increases attractiveness for customers and business partners.
  4. Cost reduction: Increasing employee skills can help reduce the costs associated with recruiting and training new employees.
  5. Improving the image of the company: Investing in employee development can positively influence the company's image and attract more engaged employees and customers to it.

Implementing upskilling and reskilling programs is important to ensure long-term success for both employees and organizations. Adapting to the changing demands of the labour market through the development of new competences is crucial in the face of dynamic technological change and innovation.