Discover how microcredentials can bridge the skills gap and enhance your employability in a changing job market. Learn about flexible training options and employer trends.”
- Recent economic stabilization is leading businesses to reassess operations and headcount.
- Job seekers are feeling uncertain, with fears about job security and receiving offers.
Current Job Market Insights
- Job Market Trends:
- 31% of job seekers fear job loss before finding new employment.
- Rising uncertainty with fewer employed individuals and a record number of job seekers.
- Employment Statistics:
- Unemployment rate at 4.3%.
- 8.2 million open jobs in the U.S.
The Skills Mismatch
- Changing Job Landscape:
- The rise of generative AI is shifting job requirements.
- 44% of workers’ skills will be disrupted in the next five years.
- Recruiter Priorities:
- Cognitive skills, dependability, work ethic, and a willingness to learn are essential.
The Importance of Reskilling
- Challenges:
- Busy schedules and existing obligations can make reskilling seem daunting.
- Solutions:
- Microcredentials offer flexible, efficient training options.
- Focus on specific skills such as accounting, business management, and more.
Microcredentials Overview
- What They Are:
- Short, focused certificates or courses available in-person and online.
- Stackable options for achieving associate and bachelor’s degrees.
- Examples:
- Google and LinkedIn offer certificates in various fields via platforms like Coursera.
Express’s Role in Reskilling
- Training and Certifications Offered:
- Workplace Pro — Office Ready, Job Ready, and Success Ready Certifications.
- ExpressLearn — Flexible Courses in High-Demand Fields.
- Express Certifications — Business Office Technology and Career Preparedness Certifications.
- Proof of Completion:
- Digital badges from third parties (e.g., Credly) or competency-based transcripts.
Employer Trends
- Reskilling Initiatives:
- 68% of hiring managers plan to reskill employees this year.
- Popular methods include company-led training programs, on-the-job training, and third-party courses.
- 16% are utilizing AI for worker training.
- Emphasize the need to invest in reskilling and microcredentials to stay relevant.
- As H. Jackson Brown, Jr. said, “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.”
