Skills of the future and staying employable

July 2020. According to research, the most sought-after skills for the future will be creativity, emotional intelligence and project management. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has catapulted everything forward and pushed the world out of its comfort zone. The future is now.

It is essential to reflect on one's career – your current skills versus the skillset you will need. Check how you can fill the gaps to remain employable during and beyond the pandemic. Some principles stay the same. Hard work and the right attitude are always at the top of the list, whether you are running your own business or working for someone else. Most other skills can be taught or learnt.

We spoke to the owner of SR Promotions, Shireen Farinha, a hard-working and inspiring entrepreneur. She is an inspiration to individuals young and old and is known for fantastic customer experience. Her commitment to making sure her clients are happy is what has made her business stand out and thrive in the competitive corporate gifting and printing sector.

She is an employer in her own right and offers the following advice for graduates looking to find employment.

• Experience

Experience is useful in today's fast-paced world of work. As a graduate, you will not have the experience you require. However, an excellent way to gain experience is to start with holiday jobs and part-time work while you are still studying. You could also volunteer your time to gain experience. This will ensure that you begin building a network you will surely need along with your career.

• Formal education

A formal qualification is always an advantage as it formalises your craft and skills. Make sure you get a qualification from an accredited provider to ensure that your hard-earned money is well spent and can serve you in the future.

• Industry knowledge

Understanding the industry you work in, or aspire to work in, is vital. It gives one insight into the target audience, clients, competitors and the needs of the market. In this way, you can provide the right products and services at the right time. Today's graduates are fortunate to have the Internet. You have a world of information available at your fingertips – use it and stay relevant.

• Honesty and trustworthiness

There are certain skills you cannot teach or learn. Trusting someone with your business and your clients is a big deal. This requires trust and commitment from both parties. It is essential to showcase your character in an interview so that your traits are evident.