The future is built with new skills

Preparing for tomorrow: what do we need to learn today?

Recently, more and more of our clients have been concerned with identifying not only trends in their own industries, but also major changes shaping the global economy. To support them in making more informed business decisions, earlier this year we prepared a series of articles based on the World Economic Forum’s “The Future of Jobs Report 2025,” which you can read below:

• here a summary of the main warning signs highlighted in the report, compiled by Florina Babău (HR Manager).
• here an analysis of the aging population and the increasing pressure on employers to invest in the specialization of existing employees, presented by our colleague Cristina Balaciu (Training Manager), along with relevant recommendations for companies.
• here an optimistic but realistic perspective on how AI, “green” jobs, and flexibility can become strategic allies; article by Adina Almăjanu (Office Manager Bucharest), with practical suggestions for adaptation.

Since we have brought the skills of the future to the forefront, we have also prepared a short series on the 8 essential future skills, as they appear in the report and on our social media pages. You can find them all together, in a structured form, right here in this article, where we have added additional details and examples for a better understanding.

1. Creative Thinking

Why does it matter?
In a world dominated by automation, creativity is your winning card. Robots can process data at incredible speeds, but they cannot imagine new scenarios, generate original concepts, or combine ideas from seemingly unrelated fields. This is where creativity comes in—the essential ingredient of innovation. Companies are increasingly looking for employees who can think independently, propose unexpected solutions, and turn complex problems into opportunities.

How can you develop it?
• Look at challenges from different perspectives—including through lenses you’re not comfortable with.
• Cultivate your curiosity: read, explore new fields, ask questions.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions (or organize them yourself, ad hoc) and look for “impossible” solutions. Some might work!

2. Emotional Intelligence

Why does it matter?
In an era of rapidly evolving technology, human connections remain fundamental. Emotional intelligence—the ability to understand, manage, and communicate emotions—is what keeps teams united and functional. People with high emotional intelligence communicate effectively, manage conflict tactfully, and can create a climate of trust. In other words, they are the “glue” that holds the team together.

How to develop it?
• Listen actively and put yourself in the other person’s shoes (change your perspective).
• Practice emotional self-control in stressful situations.
• Learn to give (and receive) feedback without (re)activating negative emotions.

3. Flexibility & Adaptability

Why does it matter?
We live in a reality where change is the main constant. Technologies appear overnight, working models transform, and customer expectations are constantly evolving. Flexible and adaptable employees are the ones who become indispensable, because they can quickly pivot to new processes, new roles, and new contexts.

How to develop them?
• Be open to change and learn new technologies or processes.
• Actively explore your discomfort zone—it’s an excellent exercise in adaptability.
• Practice habits that reduce your fear of the unknown.

4. Digital literacy

Why does it matter?
Digital literacy is no longer a skill “of the future” — it is a requirement of the present. From AI to data analysis, from collaborative tools to automation, all require a minimum understanding of technology. For organizations, ignoring technology becomes a risk; for professionals, it can mean missed opportunities.

How to develop it:
• Take technology or AI courses (for example, this one).
• Experiment with digital tools such as Google, ChatGPT, etc.
• Watch webinars that illustrate the integration of digital solutions into everyday work.

5. Leadership & Social Influence

Leadership is not just about coordination; it is about inspiration, direction, and transformation. In times of uncertainty, companies need leaders who can create clarity, guide diverse teams, and rally people around a shared vision. Social influence—the ability to persuade, inspire, and shape behavior—becomes an extremely valuable currency.

How to develop yourself:
• Improve your communication skills. A good leader knows how to convey complex messages clearly.
• Be an example: be authentic, ethical, and consistent.
• Read books on leadership and explore modern models (e.g., Simon Sinek; Arthur C. Brooks).

6. Sustainability

The future of work is green! Investments in sustainability, the transition to clean energy, and reducing carbon footprints are creating a multitude of job opportunities. Specialists who understand and contribute to these areas will be increasingly sought after.

How to develop skills in this area:
• Take courses on renewable energy and the circular economy.
• Familiarize yourself with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles.
• Pay attention to sustainable initiatives in your industries of interest.

7. Resilience & Self-Motivation

Economic volatility, rapid change, and uncertainty are permanent realities. Resilience—the ability to bounce back after difficulties—and self-motivation—the ability to keep going even when it’s hard—become the foundation of long-term performance. Employees with these skills not only survive change, they thrive despite it.

Why does it matter?
We know: the world of work isn’t always easy, and the ability to overcome obstacles and stay motivated makes the difference between success and stagnation.

How to develop them:
• Practice mindfulness or similar techniques that help you manage stress.
• Make a plan of goals and celebrate every bit of progress, no matter how small.
• Create routines that support your physical and mental balance.

8. Design & User Experience

Why does it matter?
In a world where digital experience influences every interaction—from shopping to public services—UX is becoming a strategic skill. It’s not just about the aesthetics of a product, but how the user understands, uses, and interacts with it. UX specialists are the architects of fluid and intuitive experiences that can decisively differentiate a brand.

How do you develop these skills?
• Enroll in graphic design, UX/UI, or Design Thinking courses.
• Play around with tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch, etc.
• Experiment with creative thinking techniques such as “Six Thinking Hats.”

Conclusion

These eight key skills are not just theoretical recommendations—they define how we will work, learn, and collaborate in the coming years. Investing in their development not only prepares you for the future, but also creates a competitive advantage for the teams and organizations you are part of.

Preparation begins with concrete, small, but consistent steps. Every skill developed today is a building block for tomorrow’s success.