What role do managers play in closing the digital skills gap?

1 Identify the skills gap

The first step to close the digital skills gap is to identify it. Managers need to assess the current and future skills needs of their teams and organizations, based on their strategic goals, customer expectations, and market trends. They also need to evaluate the existing skills and capabilities of their employees, using various methods such as self-assessments, performance reviews, feedback surveys, or skills tests. By comparing the skills demand and supply, managers can identify the gaps and prioritize the areas for improvement.

2 Provide learning opportunities

The second step to close the digital skills gap is to provide learning opportunities for employees. Managers need to create a supportive and flexible environment that encourages and enables employees to learn new skills and apply them in their work. This may include offering various learning formats, such as online courses, webinars, podcasts, mentorships, or peer-to-peer learning. Managers also need to allocate time and resources for learning, and recognize and reward employees for their learning achievements.

5 Lead by example

The fifth step to close the digital skills gap is to lead by example. Managers need to model the behavior and attitude that they expect from their employees. They need to show their own commitment to learning and reskilling, and share their own learning experiences and insights with their teams. They also need to collaborate and communicate with other managers and stakeholders, and leverage their networks and resources to support learning and reskilling initiatives. By leading by example, managers can inspire and influence their employees to follow suit and adopt a learning culture.

6 Empower employees

The sixth step to close the digital skills gap is to empower employees. Managers need to give employees the autonomy and responsibility to manage their own learning and reskilling journeys, and to apply their new skills and knowledge in their work. They also need to involve employees in the decision-making and planning processes, and solicit their feedback and suggestions for improvement. By empowering employees, managers can foster a sense of ownership and engagement among employees, and unleash their potential and creativity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?