The labour market is evolving rapidly — not just globally, but here in Slovakia as well. Key drivers of this change include digitalisation, the rise of artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies. To help you stay ahead, we’ve prepared an overview of the skills that are set to grow in importance and give you a real competitive edge in the job market.
1.Digital Literacy and Data Management
It’s often said that data drives the modern world – and today’s job market proves it. Employers increasingly expect staff to understand the value of data and know how to work with it effectively. Skills like data storytelling – the ability to interpret and clearly present complex data – are becoming essential in fields such as marketing, product development, and management. There is also growing demand for knowledge of cloud-based solutions, digital platform administration, and big data analytics.
2. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the labour market by automating routine tasks, accelerating processes, and creating entirely new types of jobs. As a result, there is increasing demand for people with strong digital skills, critical thinking, and the ability to adapt to new technologies. While AI has the potential to make work significantly more efficient, it also presents challenges – such as the disappearance of certain roles – and raises important questions around ethics, responsibility, and regulation.
3. Cybersecurity
As the number of online services continues to grow, so too does the need to protect sensitive data. Cybersecurity professionals use a range of tools to anticipate and detect cyberattacks, often combining technical expertise with an understanding of human behaviour. In 2024, more than 10 million people were employed in cybersecurity roles worldwide—a figure that is expected to keep rising.
4. UX Design and User Experience
User-friendly technologies are key to successful digital transformation. UX/UI designers play a crucial role in ensuring that new applications and platforms are simple, intuitive, and accessible—even for users without a technical background. Their work also involves analysing user behaviour and feedback to enhance the effectiveness of digital products, including advertising.
5. Digital Marketing
This next point is closely tied to advertising. Digital marketers must be skilled in data analysis, understand customer behaviour, and use AI to personalise content—boosting the likelihood of capturing the viewer’s attention. Creativity, strategy, and technical expertise are becoming increasingly interconnected in this field.
6. Soft Skills
Alongside technical and professional skills (hard skills), soft skills continue to play a vital role. These are primarily developed through practice, experience, and interaction with others. Key soft skills include:
- Emotional Intelligence and Communication: Despite technological advancements, interpersonal relationships remain crucial. The ability to communicate with empathy, lead a team, and resolve conflicts is invaluable. Emotional intelligence fosters a healthy work environment and enhances team effectiveness.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: In an information-saturated environment, the ability to assess what is relevant, construct logical arguments, and devise solutions is essential.
- Adaptability and Flexibility: With rapid technological advancements and the widespread adoption of hybrid work models, the ability to learn quickly, adjust work habits, and efficiently master new tasks is crucial.
- Sustainability and Environmental Awareness: Employees with expertise in green technologies and the circular economy will be highly sought after. Not only is knowledge important, but also the ability to implement sustainable practices in everyday operations.
This article was produced as part of the Pathways initiative supported by UNICEF. For more information about the project, please visit UNICEF’s digital one–stop-shop: https://akodobrezesi.sk/ua/
