DIGITAL SKILLS: THE REQUIREMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT CREATION IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY

The digital economy is expanding rapidly, and businesses across various sectors require individuals (Youths) with digital skills to support their operations and growth. As small and medium businesses embrace digital transformation, they need talented Youths who can navigate and leverage digital technologies effectively. This increased demand for digital skills directly translates into more job opportunities for Young people.

HOW DIGITAL SKILLS CAN TURN INTO EMPLOYMENT

Let’s take a look at how digital skills transforms into employment through digital economy and space in the following ways

Entrepreneurship and Startups: With the rise of e-commerce, online marketplaces, and digital platforms, Young individuals with digital skills can launch startups, create innovative products or services, and tap into global markets. They can leverage digital marketing, social media, and online advertising to reach customers and build their brand.

Digital Marketing and Social Media Management: Individuals who can create compelling digital marketing campaigns, manage social media platforms, and analyze data to optimize marketing strategies are particularly needed for employment by businesses in the field of marketing and communications. Young people adept at digital marketing techniques have a competitive edge in securing employment in these roles.

IT and Software Development: Youth who possess digital skills such as coding, programming, web development, and app development skills are highly sought after by technology companies and startups in the IT and software development industry. The demand for skilled software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists continues to grow, creating numerous employment opportunities for young professionals.

Digital Content Creation: There is continuous demand for digital content creators with the increasing number of online media platforms, streaming services, and social media which require more personal. Young individuals skilled in graphic design, video editing, content writing, and multimedia production can find employment as freelancers, influencers, or within media organizations by creating engaging content for websites, social media channels, digital advertisements, and online publications.

E-Learning and Remote Work: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work and e-learning, allowing individuals to work and study from anywhere in the world. This creates opportunities for Young people having digital skills needed to facilitate collaboration, communication, and productivity in virtual environments, opening up a wide range of employment options, regardless of geographical constraints.

Digital Support Services: Many businesses require digital support services, such as IT help desk support, customer service for online platforms, and technical troubleshooting. Young individuals with digital skills can find employment in these roles, assisting users with software and hardware issues, managing online inquiries, and providing technical guidance.

To take you further, there is need to consider the processes of exploring employment opportunities created by digital skills because Young people seeking jobs must walk through some of the paths listed as follows:

1. Acquire digital skills through formal education, vocational training programs, online courses, and self-learning.
2. Engage in internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions to gain practical experience and build a professional network.
3. Develop a portfolio of digital projects and showcase their skills through personal websites or online platforms.
4. Leverage online job platforms, freelance websites, and digital communities to find employment opportunities in the digital space.

At MindTheGap, we have foreseen the current growth in the digital economy which is marked by emerging industries and job roles that require specific digital skills. This is why we take to heart the need to empower the Nigerian Youths by driving digital skills acquisition programs in partnership with other technology skills incubation organizations. The best time to start your journey of acquiring digital employability skills is Now!