LinkedIn has recently published its annual report on the most in-demand skills for 2023. This report draws data from LinkedIn job postings and member activity, providing valuable insights into the current and future needs of the job market.
Despite talks of an economic downturn, LinkedIn maintains that the job market remains highly competitive. In the United States, there are nearly two job openings for every unemployed person. However, on a global scale, talent shortages have reached a 16-year peak, with 75% of employers struggling to find candidates who possess the right blend of technical and soft skills.
To maintain competitiveness, individuals can focus on acquiring the most sought-after skills. This not only helps businesses secure the talent they require but also enables workers to keep their skills up to date.
Let us now delve into LinkedIn's report on the top 10 most in-demand skills for 2023.
Top 10 Most In-Demand Skills in 2023
According to LinkedIn's report, management emerges as the most in-demand skill for 2023. As companies grow and expand, the need for competent managers who can oversee teams, projects, and operations becomes increasingly critical.
Communication takes the second spot on the list. With teams becoming more geographically dispersed and organizations prioritizing teamwork, effective communication across various channels and platforms holds greater value than ever before.
Customer service skills rank third. Companies acknowledge the importance of delivering exceptional experiences to foster brand loyalty and drive long-term growth.
Leadership skills secure the fourth position. Whether leading a small team or an entire organization, the ability to provide guidance, direction, and inspiration plays a crucial role in achieving success.
Sales skills round out the top five. Given the surge in e-commerce and the growing significance of digital channels, sales skills retain their value.
The complete list of the top 10 most in-demand skills comprises:
1. Management
2. Communication
3. Customer service
4. Leadership
5. Sales
6. Project management
7. Research
8. Analytical skills
9. Marketing
10. Teamwork
LinkedIn's report also presents a separate list of the top 10 most in-demand hard skills.
Top 10 Most In-Demand Hard Skills in 2023
In terms of job performance, hard skills refer to an individual's expertise in performing job-specific tasks. These skills usually entail technical knowledge and specialized capabilities necessary to carry out work successfully.
For example, software engineers may require in-depth understanding of cloud computing, SQL, and Java to fulfill their duties proficiently.
The following are the top 10 most in-demand hard skills for 2023:
1. Software development
2. SQL
3. Finance
4. Python
5. Java
6. Data analysis
7. JavaScript
8. Cloud computing
9. Operations
10. Customer relationship management
In Summary
Out of the top 20 most sought-after skills, only two (cloud computing and sales) were featured in LinkedIn's previous study conducted three years ago. This indicates that the skills businesses seek are constantly evolving, underscoring the importance for employers and employees to adapt to these changes.
LinkedIn's report suggests that in 2023, the job market will highly value soft skills such as management, communication, and leadership, as well as technical skills like data analysis, software development, and cloud computing.
To identify the most sought-after skills, LinkedIn analyzed data from employers, recruiters, and job posters over a six-month period (April to October 2022). The demand for specific skills was assessed by examining the skills possessed by LinkedIn members who were hired or contacted through InMail, as well as the skills listed in paid job postings.
Check out the full report here.
