Why professionals should stop chasing every new skill trend

Professionals should not pursue every new skill trend, according to experts at Gulf News LevelUP. Instead, they should first identify where their skills fall short and what employers need. Gulf News LevelUP, a platform in Dubai, connects professionals with education and career opportunities. Experts advise that learning should have a clear purpose and should strengthen core expertise while developing adjacent skills.

Prof. Darshita Fulara Gunwant, an Assistant Professor at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, cautions against being "trend-driven" and emphasizes the importance of an honest assessment of one's skills and the skills required by employers. She advises professionals not to pursue every trending skill, but rather identify the skill gap and determine its relevance to their career.

Prof Gunwant suggests that once the gap is identified, the next step is to choose the most suitable learning route. This could be a postgraduate degree for a significant career change, a certification or micro-credential for a specific skill, or a short course for quick skill acquisition.

Dr Ravi Chatterjee, an Associate Professor at Symbiosis International University Dubai, warns that uncertainty can lead professionals to accumulate qualifications without considering their applicability. He urges professionals to look for programmes that include practical applications, like internships or projects, to bridge the gap between learning and execution.

Experts stress that professionals should aim to build skills that are transferable across different roles and industries. This involves identifying skills that are repeatedly required across various roles and focusing on those capabilities, regardless of the chosen career path. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of combining technical skills with soft skills such as communication, leadership, negotiation, strategic thinking, and empathy.