High-paying Digital Skills to Learn in 2023 to boost your career

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, acquiring in-demand digital skills is crucial for career advancement.

With the rapid advancements and continuous discoveries in the field of technology, there are abundant opportunities for individuals equipped with sought-after digital skills. Acquiring and applying these digital skills can significantly distinguish you in the competitive job market. A report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Finds a $130 Billion Opportunity in Digital Skills Across Africa.

Those who possess these skills often lead the way in remarkable innovations and consistently make groundbreaking technological breakthroughs with high-paying tech jobs. Consequently, there is a growing demand for professionals proficient in digital skills across various industries. The intriguing aspect is that you can easily acquire some of these skills from the convenience of your own home.

Are you considering a career transition to the tech industry? Perhaps you are contemplating traveling abroad and are interested in acquiring relevant tech skills. Maybe you possess basic computer skills but require additional expertise to secure a high-paying job or advance in your current role. Alternatively, you might simply be curious to explore the field of technology and its potential to complement your existing career.

In any case, the following are the top skills available for you to choose from.

DevOps and Cloud Computing

In today’s business landscape, organizations are increasingly leveraging cloud computing to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer service. Mastering the digital skills associated with cloud computing can position you as a valuable asset for any company aiming to store its infrastructure and data offsite or in the cloud.

Adding cloud computing to your repertoire of digital skills can significantly increase your marketability and salary potential. The beauty of cloud computing is that beginners can embark on self-paced online courses to acquire the necessary knowledge. Career opportunities in this domain encompass roles such as Cloud Engineering and Cloud Architecture.

On the other hand, a DevOps engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring that software developed by programmers is seamlessly deployed on servers, enabling worldwide accessibility. Similar to the smooth experience you have when accessing platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn, DevOps engineers strive to minimize downtime and automate essential processes.

While having programming knowledge can be advantageous, it is not a prerequisite to getting started in the field of DevOps. Due to the scarcity of skilled professionals in this domain, DevOps engineers are highly sought after and rewarded with competitive salaries, particularly in international markets.

Cybersecurity

In today’s digital age, where technology pervades almost every aspect of human endeavors and industries, the importance of safeguarding digital assets cannot be overstated. It is no surprise that cybersecurity has emerged as an indispensable skill, particularly in organizations that handle sensitive information and financial transactions. Acquiring expertise through cybersecurity certifications or Universities that offer cybersecurity degrees can open doors to promising career opportunities and promotions.

To establish a thriving career in this field, there are several crucial areas to delve into. Familiarizing yourself with programming languages like Python and C++, as well as gaining proficiency in operating systems and networking channels, is paramount. These foundational skills enable you to identify vulnerabilities and potential threats, ultimately empowering you to bolster a company’s cybersecurity defenses.

AI and Machine Learning

The domains of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) continue to captivate and experience exponential growth. In 2023, numerous AI tools garnered recognition, and their integration across various companies demonstrated their immense potential.

This surge in development has led more organizations to actively pursue AI implementation, thereby creating opportunities for aspiring AI enthusiasts. Industries worldwide are already leveraging intelligent machines and algorithms to enhance their operations. In 2023, significant advancements were observed in Automatic Machine Learning (AutoML) frameworks, AI text-to-video generators, and the diverse applications of artificial intelligence.

While venturing into the AI field necessitates learning machine learning, it is important to recognize that AI and ML possess distinct characteristics despite their close association.

UI/UX Design (Product Design)

Product design, specifically UI/UX design, is an advanced discipline within graphic design that profoundly influences how consumers engage with digital and physical products and services. By incorporating UI/UX skills into your professional repertoire, you can shape the online personality and interface of brands, leading to enhanced conversions and user satisfaction.

Interestingly, CNN has projected a 13% growth in the demand for UX designers between 2017 and 2027. In today’s highly competitive world, businesses are increasingly compelled to invest more in their UX endeavors to maintain a competitive edge. To explore job opportunities in UX design, popular platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor can serve as valuable resources for your search.

If you are contemplating a career in UX design, rest assured that your prospects as a new UX professional are promising, especially if you can cultivate a distinctive skill set that sets you apart.

Digital or Social Media Marketing

Establishing a strong digital or social media presence is crucial for both companies and individuals seeking to drive their brands forward and achieve success. Acquiring proficiency in digital marketing skills such as SEO, SEM, Analytics, PPC, Email Marketing, and Social Media Marketing can position you as a highly sought-after talent across diverse industries.

This is a tech skill that doesn’t require programming. Every business needs to make more sales, as such, a digital marketer is needed to help promote software, websites, and mobile app that has been built by the programmer.

As a social media or digital marketer, your role involves creating captivating content that enhances the online identity of brands. The field of digital marketing is dynamic, offering a wide range of career opportunities, including content marketers, brand strategists, SEO specialists, social media managers, and more. It’s worth noting that the role of a digital marketing specialist ranks among the most sought-after jobs in 2023, with over 860,000 job openings available.

Data Analytics and Analysis

Data holds significant value and serves as a vital resource for companies. As brands face fierce competition and an ever-expanding consumer base, leveraging data becomes crucial for their success.

To navigate this increasingly competitive market landscape, brands and companies recognize the importance of having skilled data scientists and analysts overseeing their databases. It’s worth noting that a formal degree is not a prerequisite to embark on a career in data science and analytics.

The indispensability of data scientists lies in their ability to collect data, identify patterns and trends, and extract valuable insights from vast amounts of information to enhance sales and conversions. Pursuing a career as a data analyst can position you at the top of hiring managers’ lists and offer lucrative opportunities.

While the number of data analyst jobs may not be as abundant as software-related roles, the demand for data analysts is high in international markets. Organizations worldwide seek individuals who can help them make sense of their data. As a data analyst, you can work across diverse industries, including finance, healthcare, education, government, and more.

Web and App Development (Programming)

Programming is an indispensable skill for digital products and services, sought after by employers on platforms like Glassdoor and LinkedIn. Mastery in programming entails refining your expertise in languages such as HTML, Bootstrap, jQuery, and JavaScript.

Moreover, possessing a responsive portfolio showcasing mobile and web development expertise will greatly enhance your professional profile. Programming extends beyond the realm of technology alone, playing a pivotal role in emerging fields like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). Careers in this domain encompass roles such as full-stack web developers, software engineers, and more.

To determine if software development is a suitable career path for you, several key abilities are essential for a software developer:

• Strong logical and critical thinking
• Troubleshooting skills
• Taking initiative
• Persistence
• Adaptability to new technologies and techniques

Blockchain

The demand for individuals with Blockchain skills is soaring, as this revolutionary technology finds applications across various industries. However, not everyone is cut out for these exceptional job opportunities. To stand out and garner the trust of employers, you must possess or acquire the skills that set you apart in this field.

Now, let’s delve into who these potential employers are. There are four major players in the crypto job market:

1. Industries: These encompass large companies such as banks, accountancy firms, oil and gas corporations, insurance providers, retailers, and law offices. These industry giants strive to stay abreast of the latest technology, including Blockchain.
2. Startups: These are independent businesses and products that have emerged since the inception of Blockchain. Startups are leveraging the potential of this technology to create innovative solutions and disrupt traditional industries.
3. Tech firms: These companies, often leaders in the tech industry, stand to face significant consequences if Blockchain technology becomes dominant. As they navigate the shift towards decentralized systems, they require expertise in Blockchain to guide their strategic decisions.
4. Governments: Many governments are increasingly hiring crypto experts for advisory roles. Recognizing the numerous advantages of Blockchain, governments worldwide are warming up to its potential. Consequently, the demand for Blockchain professionals in the public sector is on the rise.