Creative thinking is the most important skill according to 70% of employers

By Aoibhinn Mc Bride

Ever since ChatGPT's launch in late 2022, the conversation and debate about whether AI will replace human workers has been in constant circulation.

And while many industries will adopt more sophisticated automation processes and as a consequence reduce their workforce accordingly, humans still have the upper hand.

This is because employers are increasingly leaning on soft skills as a way to future-proof their business models and day-to-day operations, and according to research conducted by the World Economic Forum for its Future of Jobs Report 2023, creative thinking is one of the most sought-after skills.

In fact, 73% of organizations consider creative thinking as a must-have and not a nice-to-have when considering prospective employees.

Creative thinking is also the skill that 46% of employers are focusing on when it comes to reskilling and upskilling their current employees.

Thinking outside the box
AI is undoubtedly driving the need for creative thinking capabilities as workers will need to be trained on how to utilize AI and the big data sets it can produce.

For now, computers can't interpret this information like humans can so how can you develop your own creative thinking skills to elevate your professional capabilities?

The most important aspect to using a creative thinking approach is to get organized.

Start off by writing down what the most obvious solution is before setting out all the different routes you could take to resolve the issue or problem.

It's a good idea to brainstorm potential solutions to certain scenarios. Write all of these down and try to map out how each option could resolve the issue at hand.

When it comes to large data sets, map out the various ways the data could be interpreted and how this information impacts other areas of the business.

Next, see if there are any links between the data you're working on. Do you need to connect the dots to find the best solution?

Or if you want to take a more formal approach, there's always the option of undertaking a short professional development course dedicated to creative thinking. MIT has a 12-week online certificate program that costs just over $3,000 and can be completed in as little as six hours per week.

If you're looking for something less formal (or expensive), Ideo U allows participants of its Design Thinking certificate to complete different modules at your own pace—these are all approximately five weeks in duration and cost between $700 and $800 per module.

And if you feel as though your current employer isn't facilitating or doesn't value a more creative approach, it could be time to look for a job in a company that fosters innovation. If that is the case, the Employee Benefit News Job Board is the perfect place to focus your search as it features thousands of roles, including the three below.

Senior Applications Architect - Pension Administration, University of California Office of the President, Oakland
The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, six academic medical centers and three national laboratories. As Senior Application Architect - Pension Administration System (PAS) you will be responsible for leading the overall technical implementation of changes and enhancements to the UC Redwood system and supporting tools. This includes the design, development, and implementation of the Retirement Services applications and technology services. You will also oversee the work of the technical teams while providing guidance and mentorship, while fostering an inclusive work environment. Interested? Apply here.

Human Resources Manager, Materion Advanced Chemicals Inc, Milwaukee
In this Human Resources Manager role you will manage high impact human resource functions in a high growth, expanding facility in Milwaukee that comprises 130 employees. This will include staffing, performance management, talent development, positive employee relations, as well as helping to create an inclusive environment where all employees can do their best work. This role reports to the Regional HR Director and works closely with the Milwaukee leadership team and workforce, as well as HR colleagues across the organization. See the full job description here.

Human Resources - DoD HR Specialist, Quadrant, Inc., Alexandria
For those with active DoD Secret clearance or Top Secret SCI eligibility, Quadrant, Inc. has an opportunity for a HR Specialist to join its team. Your main responsibilities will involve supporting management and revising and developing the current personnel system. As such, you will develop supplemental guidance documents, issue papers, and products that facilitate successful implementation. You will also research and interpret statutory and regulatory authorities on recruitment and placement concepts, practices, regulations, precedents, and procedures. Want to know more? Find out additional details here.

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