By CorporateTraining360 Editorial Team 
Unlocking Skills Adjacent Training for a Future-Ready Workforce: A 5-Step Framework
As the job market continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it’s clear that skills adjacent training is no longer a nicety, but a necessity. By 2025, more than one-third of the desired skills for most jobs will be comprised of skills that are not yet considered crucial to the job today, according to a report by the World Economic Forum. This means that employees must be able to adapt quickly to changing job requirements and stay relevant in the workforce. So, how can organizations ensure their employees have the skills they need to succeed in this shifting landscape?
The Importance of Skills Adjacent Training in a Rapidly Changing Job Market
Skills adjacent training is essential for employees to adapt to changing job requirements and stay relevant in the workforce. It’s no longer enough to focus solely on technical skills; employees need to be able to pivot and learn new skills quickly. According to a report by LinkedIn, 58% of learning and development teams say that upskilling and reskilling are key priorities. But what exactly does skills adjacent training entail, and how can organizations implement it effectively?
The 5-Step Framework for Unlocking Skills Adjacent Training
To help organizations unlock the potential of skills adjacent training, we’ve developed a 5-step framework. This framework will guide you through the process of identifying skills gaps, assessing current skills and abilities, developing a training plan, implementing and delivering training, and evaluating and refining the training program.
Step 1: Identify Skills Gaps and Emerging Trends
The first step in unlocking skills adjacent training is to identify skills gaps and emerging trends. This involves using labor market analytics and industry reports to gather insights on the skills and competencies required for future success. Conduct surveys and focus groups with employees and industry experts to gather information on the skills and knowledge needed to stay ahead of the curve. Utilize tools like the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook to explore growth areas and required skills.
For example, if you’re in the tech industry, you might use reports from Gartner or Forrester to identify emerging trends and skills gaps. You could also conduct surveys with your employees to understand what skills they think are most important for future success.
Step 2: Assess Current Skills and Abilities
Once you’ve identified skills gaps and emerging trends, it’s time to assess your employees’ current skills and abilities. This involves evaluating their strengths and weaknesses, as well as identifying areas where they need additional training or support. Use tools like skills assessments and performance reviews to gather data and insights.
According to a report by Harvard Business Review, employees who receive regular feedback are more likely to be engaged and motivated. So, be sure to provide regular feedback and coaching to help employees understand their strengths and weaknesses.
Step 3: Develop a Skills Adjacent Training Plan
With your skills gaps and emerging trends identified, and your employees’ current skills and abilities assessed, it’s time to develop a skills adjacent training plan. This involves creating a plan that addresses specific skills gaps and emerging trends, incorporates a mix of online and offline training methods, and is aligned with business objectives and performance metrics.
For example, you might develop a training plan that includes e-learning modules on emerging trends, workshops on soft skills, and coaching on technical skills. Be sure to involve your employees in the planning process to ensure the training is relevant and engaging.
Step 4: Implement and Deliver Training
The next step is to implement and deliver the training. This involves providing opportunities for employees to practice and apply new skills, encouraging a culture of continuous learning and experimentation, and monitoring progress and adjusting the training program as needed.
According to a report by eLearning Industry, 75% of employees prefer to learn through online courses and tutorials. So, be sure to incorporate online training methods into your plan.
Step 5: Evaluate and Refine the Training Program
Finally, it’s time to evaluate and refine the training program. This involves gathering feedback from employees, assessing the effectiveness of the training, and making adjustments as needed. Use data and analytics to evaluate the impact of the training on business outcomes and make adjustments to the program accordingly.
Best Practices for Implementing Skills Adjacent Training
To get the most out of skills adjacent training, there are several best practices to keep in mind. Provide opportunities for employees to practice and apply new skills, encourage a culture of continuous learning and experimentation, and monitor progress and adjust the training program as needed.
For example, you might provide opportunities for employees to work on real-world projects, encouraging them to apply new skills and knowledge. You could also create a culture of continuous learning by providing access to online courses and tutorials, and encouraging employees to share their knowledge and expertise with others.
Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Skills Adjacent Training
Skills adjacent training is a critical component of a future-ready workforce. By following the 5-step framework outlined above, organizations can unlock new skills and adapt to changing job requirements. Investing in skills adjacent training is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly changing job market. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start unlocking the potential of skills adjacent training today.
Further reading: Harvard Business Review; eLearning Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is skills adjacent training?
Skills adjacent training refers to the process of developing new skills and competencies that are adjacent to an employee’s current role or function. This involves identifying skills gaps and emerging trends, assessing current skills and abilities, developing a training plan, implementing and delivering training, and evaluating and refining the training program.
Why is skills adjacent training important?
Skills adjacent training is important because it allows employees to adapt to changing job requirements and stay relevant in the workforce. By 2025, more than one-third of the desired skills for most jobs will be comprised of skills that are not yet considered crucial to the job today.
How can I implement skills adjacent training in my organization?
To implement skills adjacent training in your organization, follow the 5-step framework outlined above. Identify skills gaps and emerging trends, assess current skills and abilities, develop a training plan, implement and deliver training, and evaluate and refine the training program.
What are some best practices for implementing skills adjacent training?
Some best practices for implementing skills adjacent training include providing opportunities for employees to practice and apply new skills, encouraging a culture of continuous learning and experimentation, and monitoring progress and adjusting the training program as needed.