Investing in Your Team: Upskilling and Employee Experience as Keys to Satisfaction

Currently, we are experiencing significant changes in the workplace driven by technological advancements and evolving employee expectations. I recently read a survey from PWC on Global Workforce Hopes & Fears that dives into how workers deal with these changes. Even if there may be fears and anxieties, most employees say they’re ready to adapt to new ways of working. Many are enthusiastic about upskilling and recognize the potential of generative AI (GenAI) to enhance their efficiency. When employees understand and actively support the change, transformation plans are much more likely to succeed. Here’s a breakdown of what stood out for me and how it aligns with the approach of my team at SAP.

The article points out the gap between what employees want and what they experience at work. Fair pay, flexibility, and fulfilling work are top priorities, but many feel these aren’t being fully met.? Flexibility aids work-life balance, while fulfilling work provides purpose, helping employees see the impact of their contributions to the company and society. Employees who feel supported and receive what they need are more likely to be engaged at work and open to embracing change. In response to these challenges, we created opportunities in my team for our employees to grow in their roles. This includes learning programs and the ability of every employee to shape their work and take their career into their own hands. It’s my goal that all employees in my team understand their role and their value which they are adding to reach our team’s and our company goals, ultimately providing purpose to their work and fellowships where they can explore new areas. Fellowships offer a unique opportunity to expand horizons, explore new areas, and gain inspiration for the next career steps.

The survey also highlights that almost half of the employees consider opportunities to learn new skills a major factor in deciding whether to stay with their current employer or look elsewhere. This finding underscores the need for comprehensive upskilling programs accessible to all, not just specialists. Considering the forecast by the World Economic Forum, which predicts 97 million new tech jobs by 2025, but the talent pool is limited. Addressing this skills gap is essential. Instead of just hiring, we need to develop our employees' skills, especially in future-focused areas like AI. At SAP we recognize this need. Our comprehensive learning offerings include the SAP Learning Site (learning.sap.com ) and Role-based SAP Certifications (https://learning.sap.com/get-certified ) to name just two. SAP Learning Site is a one-stop shop that offers more than 210 self-paced courses to learn a new skill, stay up to date with the latest innovation or get certified. The learning journeys are designed to be simple, intuitive, and interactive. They are role-based, available for all skill levels, and prepare for career paths such as developer, consultant and administrator. For this we provide for example AI trainings, such as the Generative AI at SAP course.

?

In addition, role-based SAP Certifications provide trusted recognition of in-depth intermediate or advanced skills in key focus areas and roles. With digital access to certification exams, learners can validate their skills anytime and stay certified with dedicated learning content and assessments. Over 140 globally recognized certifications are offered for key SAP software focus areas, roles, and skill levels, including for enterprise architects, backend developers, and implementation consultants. These certifications not only help drive organizations forward but also ensure success and elevate career growth and earning potential.

?

The insights from the survey highlight the critical role of upskilling and improving the employee experience in driving performance. Prioritizing these areas can lead to a more engaged, resilient, and high-performing workforce which embraces change. In my team we continuously observe trends and identify opportunities, to adapt to new challenges and engage our team to master SAP solutions with confidence. This comprehensive approach helps us not only to survive change but to thrive in it.

?

So, let’s keep investing in our people, and creating a work environment where everyone can succeed! ?I would be interested to know how employees are made ready for change in your team or organization. Let me know your thoughts.

?