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Upskilling, Reskilling, and Online Training: A brief overview

Yet another new approach in HRM worldwide; reskilling, upskilling, and online training are becoming essential trends in Human Resource Management (HRM). As technology evolves and job roles shift, businesses must equip employees with new skills to stay competitive.
Without delay let us dig in...

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Upskilling enhances the employees’ current skills for career growth.

Upskilling means improving an employee’s existing skills to keep up with changes in their job. It includes both technical and soft skills, helping them handle future challenges while staying effective in their current role. By developing the right skills, upskilling helps companies fill skill gaps and build a strong workforce for long-term success. (Pechan, 2021)

                                    
[Betterworks, 2024]

The future of Upskilling

According to Great learning Editorial team, the 2024-25 Upskilling Trends Report highlights key changes in the workforce driven by technology and economic challenges. Here are the main takeaways:

  1. AI and Technology Impact: 75% of employees feel AI is changing their work, altering tasks and skill needs.
  2. Job Security: Only 62% of workers feel confident about keeping their jobs, with entry-level workers feeling the least secure.
  3. Upskilling Plans: 85% of workers plan to learn new skills, especially in Data Science, AI, and Machine Learning.
  4. Barriers to Upskilling: Common challenges include time, financial limitations, and work pressure.
  5. Top Areas for Upskilling: AI/ML, Software Development, and Digital Marketing offer the best career growth opportunities.
  6. Education Preferences: Nearly 50% of workers are considering a Master’s degree to stay competitive.

The job market is evolving quickly, making it important to stay updated on these trends for career growth and upskilling.

But….

[Betterworks, 2024]

Upskilling programs have clear benefits, but they often don’t achieve the desired results. Understanding the common challenges can help create better training strategies that truly benefit employees and support business growth.

Employees need more than just training—they need mentorship, coaching, and feedback. However, many employees don’t get this support, making it harder for them to apply what they’ve learned.

Other common issues include poor integration of upskilling into daily tasks, a lack of personalized training plans, failure to track progress, and outdated technology. Addressing these challenges can make upskilling more effective and impactful.

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Online training makes learning more accessible and flexible, allowing employees to develop skills anytime, anywhere.

Online employee training, also called e-learning, is a way for employees to learn new skills using digital tools instead of in-person classes. It allows them to take courses from anywhere, often at their own pace. Online training includes videos, quizzes, simulations, and webinars, making learning more flexible and engaging. This helps businesses ensure their employees have the skills they need to succeed. (Appsembler, 2024)



When choosing an online training platform, it should be easy to use, provide tracking and analytics to measure progress, and integrate with other business tools. Customizable content is also important to match company needs. A well-chosen platform ensures effective and impactful employee training.

Future Trends in Online Training

  1. AI & ML: Training will be more personalized based on user behavior.
  2. AR & VR: Immersive learning will allow hands-on practice in a virtual space.
  3. Global Collaboration: Employees worldwide can train together in real time.
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Reskilling helps employees transition to different roles

Reskilling means learning new skills to switch to a different job or career, usually because the job market or workplace is changing. Unlike upskilling, which improves current skills for career growth, reskilling helps people move into completely different fields, like AI, cybersecurity, or renewable energy. (Boatman, 2021)

In this Learning Bite, AIHR explain how to reskill your workforce for the future in 9 steps.
[Youtube, AIHR Academy to Innovate HR]
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Investing in upskilling and reskilling initiatives is essential for organizations aiming to maintain a competitive edge and for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a rapidly changing job market.



References

  • Team, E. (2024) Upskilling Trends Report for 2024-25, Great Learning Blog: Free Resources what Matters to shape your Career! Available at: https://www.mygreatlearning.com/blog/upskilling-trends-report-for-2024-25/.
  • Pechan, C. (2021) Upskilling Definition and Examples, Betterworks. Available at: https://www.betterworks.com/magazine/upskilling-definition-and-examples/.
  • Appsembler (2024) Appsembler. Available at: https://appsembler.com/glossary/online-employee-training/ (Accessed: 16 March 2025).
  • Boatman, A. (2021) Reskilling Your Workforce for the Future: An HR’s Guide, AIHR. Available at: https://www.aihr.com/blog/reskilling/.
  • 9 Steps to Reskill Your Workforce For The Future (no date) www.youtube.com. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EBgGGII8i8.











Comments

  1. Manjula ChandimalMarch 21, 2025 at 10:52 AM

    The common challenges in HRM are tech barriers, engagement and motivation and understanding and remembering which are crucial to study.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chalani ThilakaratneApril 4, 2025 at 7:57 PM

      Yes and the generational differences in the workforce will impose another issue that needs to be handled delicately.

      Delete
  2. WijayaMarch 22, 2025 at 8:04 AM

    online training is very useful to the employees who are in a busy schedule, they can learn in their own place, and also this is very much useful for working professionals. its a cost effective training method,

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chalani ThilakaratneMarch 26, 2025 at 6:21 AM

      Agree. The use of proper technology will make it easy for both company and employees

      Delete
  3. Malsha PereraMarch 22, 2025 at 10:18 AM

    Both upskilling and reskilling are essential components of an organization’s strategy to maintain a competitive edge, increase employee satisfaction, and ensure that the workforce remains adaptable in the face of change. Upskilling helps employees stay relevant in their current roles, while reskilling equips them to take on new responsibilities.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chalani ThilakaratneApril 4, 2025 at 7:57 PM

      Absolutely! Upskilling and reskilling are key to staying competitive and ensuring that employees continue to grow. By focusing on both, organizations can boost employee satisfaction while preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

      Delete
  4. Shankanee IllangarathnaMarch 25, 2025 at 11:42 PM

    Upskilling, reskilling, and online training help organizations stay competitive by keeping employees skilled and adaptable. They improve productivity, reduce skill gaps, and prepare employees for new roles. This leads to higher employee engagement, lower turnover, and a more innovative workforce, driving long-term business success.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chalani ThilakaratneApril 4, 2025 at 7:58 PM

      I agree! Upskilling, reskilling, and online training are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. They not only enhance productivity and innovation but also contribute to employee satisfaction and retention, ultimately benefiting the overall success of the business.

      Delete
  5. Samadhi PathirageMarch 26, 2025 at 1:31 AM

    Great overview! Upskilling and reskilling are essential for adapting to evolving job markets, and online training makes learning more accessible than ever. With technology constantly changing, these initiatives empower employees to stay relevant, boost their careers, and contribute more effectively to their organizations.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Chalani ThilakaratneMarch 26, 2025 at 6:20 AM

      True. Irrespective of the size of the organization these can be implemented if you properly plan.

      Delete
  6. Udara DananjayaApril 5, 2025 at 2:10 AM

    Upskilling is a great way to improve workers' skills and make sure they stay useful in a workplace that is always changing.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Lahiru AmarasingheApril 5, 2025 at 7:19 AM

    Great article! It highlights the importance of upskilling and reskilling for adapting to new roles and technological changes. Leveraging online platforms ensures accessible learning, which helps organizations stay competitive. Well done!

    ReplyDelete

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