AdminBy Elsie Udoh
It’s three months until 2024 runs out, but the need to up your skills is not running out; instead, it remains ever-relevant. It is no news that tech skills are in demand now more than ever and are needed in whatever sector you find yourself in.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhether you work in an office, run your own business, or freelance, tech skills can give you a competitive edge. But with so many options, you might wonder: What are the best tech skills to learn in 2024?
Here, we’re going to explore 20 essential tech skills that can help you stay relevant in today’s fast-paced job market, but before that, let’s see why tech skills are important.
Why Learning Tech Skills Is Needed in 2024
Many industries today, from finance and education to healthcare and retail, have adopted digital solutions to increase efficiency and provide better services.
Learning tech skills will open more doors for you in your job. Even if you don’t plan on being a tech-bro or sis, having a solid understanding of technology will make your job easier and boost your problem-solving abilities.
Now, let’s see the 20 tech skills that you can learn before 2024 run out.
20 Best Tech Skills You Can Learn in 2024
1. SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
The online market is very saturated and it can be difficult for businesses to stand out from their competitor so business owners are constantly searching for SEO experts to help them make their businesses get noticed online. You simply need to understand how search engines work and how to improve website rankings to drive traffic to a site and increase sales or engagement.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
AI and machine learning are everywhere and used in everything from personal assistants like Siri and Alexa to complex data analysis in industries such as healthcare, banking, and marketing. AI can help you solve problems smartly when you understand how it works and how to apply it.
You don’t need to become a data scientist overnight. Start by learning the basics of AI algorithms, automation, and how machine learning models can help businesses improve efficiency.
3. Data Analysis and Big Data
Data is often referred to as the new oil, but like oil, it needs to be refined before it’s useful. That’s where data analysis comes in. Companies collect massive amounts of data, which can be about customer habits, market trends, or operational performance, and they need skilled people to turn this raw data into useful information.
This can be done using data analysis tools like Excel, SQL, or Python.
4. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing allows companies to store and access their data over the Internet instead of on physical servers. This shift to the cloud has been a game-changer for businesses, especially after the rise of remote work. Skills in platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are in high demand.
You will be very useful in a business as you will have the potential to support the business in becoming more agile and cost-effective if you understand how to set up and manage cloud infrastructure.
5. Cybersecurity
Think about this: what is usually your first point of contact when you get to a physical office building? That would most likely be the security checkpoint or post. It’s the same trend with online businesses. Running a business online exposes the organisation to more risk than a physical office. Hence, online business owners are actively seeking ways to protect sensitive information. They trained professionals who can detect even the most sophisticated cyber-attacks and keep their systems secure very useful to their businesses.
Cybersecurity entails ethical hacking and risk management, among others and is a field filled with plenty of opportunities so if you have an eye for detail and enjoy solving complex problems, cybersecurity might be a good fit for you.
6. Blockchain Technology
When you think about Blockchain you most likely may associate it with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which is not wrong, but its potential reaches far beyond that.
This technology ensures secure, decentralised transactions, which has huge implications for industries like finance, healthcare, and logistics. The best part is that you don’t need to have a full comprehension of blockchain to work in the field, you can easily start by understanding how the technology works.
7. UI/UX Design
User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design are essential for making technology easy and enjoyable to use. This happens through designing a website, an app, or a software tool that has an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Business are searching for ways to create better customer experiences, so this skill is highly in-demand.
8. Programming and Software Development
Even if you’re not planning to become a full-time software developer, learning the basics of coding can be incredibly useful. Programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and Java are widely used across various companies, and learning how to write code can improve your problem-solving skills and automate repetitive tasks.
9. Digital Marketing
Digital marketing involves everything from SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) to social media marketing, email campaigns, and pay-per-click advertising.
It is done to help businesses grow their online presence or build a personal brand.
10. Project Management (Agile and Scrum)
Tech projects often involve multiple teams and tight deadlines. That’s where project management comes in. Agile and Scrum are methodologies that help teams work more efficiently, focusing on collaboration and adaptability.
Learning these methods can help you become a more effective leader, especially in businesses where flexibility is key.
11. DevOps
This combines development and operations, enabling companies to build, test, and release software more rapidly. It entails creating a seamless pipeline where teams work together to push updates or new features with minimal delay.
To learn this, you’ll need to be learn how to use tools like Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes.
12. Mobile App Development
This is a skill that can help you grow even your own business by creating an app that people can download on their phones and easily have access to your services.
13. Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT refers to the network of connected devices that exchange data, like smart home devices, wearables, and even smart cities. This technology is growing fast, and businesses are looking for professionals who understand how to integrate IoT solutions into their operations.
14. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR are not just for gaming. These technologies are being used in education, training, retail, and real estate. Imagine trying on clothes virtually before buying or training surgeons using VR simulations. That’s the power of AR an VR.
15. Automation and Robotics
Automation and robotics allow businesses to perform repetitive tasks with fewer human errors and greater efficiency. Learning about automation tools and robotic process automation (RPA) can put you at the forefront of the market.
16. Web Development
Websites are still the backbone of the internet, and businesses need people who can build and maintain them. You can either learn front-end languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript or back-end languages like Node.js and Ruby to design and develop functional, user-friendly websites.
17. Artificial Intelligence Chatbots
AI-powered chatbots are becoming more common as companies look for ways to improve customer service while cutting costs so learning how to design and implement chatbots, can help you provide businesses with faster and more efficient support.
18. Database Management
Companies store vast amounts of data, and someone has to manage it. Database management involves organising, storing, and retrieving data using systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB and is a crucial skill for businesses that rely on accurate data storage and analysis.
19. IT Support and Troubleshooting
Every company needs someone who can troubleshoot tech issues, whether by fixing a software bug or setting up hardware. Therefore, learning how to provide tech support will always keep you in demand, especially as companies adopt new technology.
20. Network Security
We already talked aboout how important security is to an online business. Network security helps businesses protect their data through firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems.
Where Can I Learn Tech Skills?
The tech world moves fast, and staying relevant requires continuous learning. Thankfully, there are countless online resources where you can learn these skills. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses on most of the skills listed above so you can easily get started.
To progress faster while learning, don’t just read through the course content or mindlessly watch the course videos, rather, take time to apply the new skills you’re learning in real-world situations by taking on freelance projects, internships, or starting personal projects.
FAQs About Learning Tech Skills
What is the easiest tech skill to learn?
Many people find digital marketing or basic web development to be relatively easy to pick up, especially with the number of beginner-friendly resources available.
What tech skill is most in demand?
AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are some of the most in-demand skills due to the rise of automation, remote work, and the need for better security in this digital age.
Can I learn tech skills without a degree?
Absolutely! Many people learn tech skills through online courses, bootcamps, and self-study, and land well-paying jobs without a formal degree.
Do I need to learn coding to be a tech guru?
No, you do not. Most people shy away from tech because of the fear of writing codes which can be complex but the goodnews is that tech skills like digital marketing, database management and a large part of search engine optimisation do not require coding so yes, you are good to go into the tech world without learning coding.
Conclusion
We’ve seen the 20 best tech skills that you can learn in 2024. Whether you want to transition to tech or add to your tech skillset, then the skills explained in this article will give you a strong foundation. Take your time to study them and get started learning one or maybe even two before the year runs.
