Changing trends of modern economy
Not enough to be qualified with experience Employees, business people must invest in upskilling
The 21st century economy requires individuals to invest in personal development, and equip themselves to be able to adapt to change.
Unlike in previous years, it is not only formal education and qualifications or work experience that render someone successful in the workplace and in business, but rather, their ability to adapt to change in the ever-evolving modern world and how they utilise their skills set, says career coach, and director of Prime Coaching, Mompoloki Makwane.
He said upskilling is necessary for success in the workplace and in business and urged individuals to continuously strive to be indispensable in the workplace through training for new skills. He also said that emotional intelligence and attitude are critical.
“Interpersonal skills are very important and necessary to surviving in the workplace and in business.” He pointed out that nowadays, employers for example, don’t really care how educated or experienced someone is, and prefer an individual who is enthusiastic and will get the job done.
“Employers want someone who can adapt to new technology and prove to be adaptable and flexible. Nowadays you find that one person has a single job title but does the work of two or three people – those are the kind of people employers want”.
Makwane said the nature of the workforce is changing continuously and require people to change. He said the period 2021-2025 would see a notable shift in the culture of work and the workforce, which would force many people to introspect on how they have been doing things and change or improve their skills set.
He pointed out that for one, using one’s personal talent was a sure way to get ahead. “You have to ask yourself, what can I do – and monetise it. That is exactly what government is trying to steer towards with the knowledgebased economy.
“In other countries, people live off their talents; the arts, culture, sport etc. We should cultivate a conducive environment here. We can say government should change the curriculum and all, but individuals should invest in themselves”.
Makwane’s story of how he got his ‘Aha’ moment is a simple yet fascinating one that reflects his boldness. He was born and raised in Molaladau where he completed his secondary education, and moved to Gaborone as a starryeyed first year tertiary student.
Exposed to a world beyond the one that he knew, he realised that the world had an abundance of opportunities. He was selected for an exchange programme in the United Kingdom where he learnt about a programme where young people presented their business ideas to a panel, and were immediately funded.
“I was amazed that people could just come up with ideas and receive on the spot funding for their ideas,” he said. On his return home, he decided to help Batswana help themselves. He is qualified in Economics and Environment studies, but took courses in leadership and coaching.
He quit his 9-5 job and started on his journey as a personal, career and business development coach, an endeavour that has been fulfilling and successful. He has a radio show on RB2, and is the author of best-selling books, ‘What amazing employees do’ and ‘Embrace your greatness.’
He is also a Nelson Mandela Washington fellow, and has been selected to represent Botswana in the Southern African Regional Leadership programme.
He has also been selected to represent Botswana at the Africa Summit in Uganda and is an Alumni of the Youth African Leaders initiative by former United States of America President Barrack Obama.