How long will your current skills remain in demand? What value will you offer in five years’ time – and what will set you apart from the competition? Anyone asking these questions is already thinking in terms of employability.
The concept gained traction around the turn of the millennium, when it became clear how quickly knowledge becomes outdated, particularly in technology-driven environments. Today, this affects all industries. Maintaining employability means continuous development: professionally through targeted upskilling, and personally through a clear understanding of one’s strengths. Lifelong learning is not a buzzword – it is a necessity.
Companies share part of the responsibility – through training opportunities, by recognising trends, and by raising awareness. But no one can guarantee lifelong employment anymore. The primary responsibility lies with everyone.
This requires a shift in perspective: seeing yourself as a business of one. Those who think this way do not only ask, “What can I do?” but also, “What does the market need – and how can I contribute?” A personal and professional assessment helps to answer these questions. The labour market has changed. Those who want to make the most of it need to know what they have to offer.
Articles on employability (all articles)
Career success through specialisation
What should I do during my time without a job?