LinkedIn Poll: What Today’s Professionals Are Prioritising for Career Growth

“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

The world of corporate is evolving. Skills that you learned earlier may not be enough any more. With AI and technology reshaping industries, one thing is clear — standing still is not an option. From tech-savvy professionals to leaders with global perspectives, learning industry-centric skills is a crucial asset for long-term career growth.

Since learning is no longer a one-time investment but a continuous commitment, professionals’ preferences vary. To gain a clearer picture, we at “Learning Routes” conducted a LinkedIn Poll on the most demanding skills. The poll helped us understand what skills professionals believe will matter most in the upcoming years. Let us see what the results were:

The Question: “What’s the Most In-Demand Skill for the Next 3 Years?”

Option 1: Data & Tech Skills

Option 2: Global Mindset & Adaptability

Option 3: Leadership & Communication

Option 4: Industry-specific Expertise

The results were eye-opening:

Data & Tech Skills – 58%

Data is the new oil, and tech is the refinery. From AI professionals to cloud experts, the demand for digital literacy is skyrocketing. With 58% of professionals, it is no surprise that the majority is prioritising tech skills.

Here is Why It Matters

According to the Computing Technology Industry Association (2024), the jobs in the tech sector are estimated to grow from 6 million to 7.1 million between 2024 and 2034. 48% of companies prioritise tech skills in new hires.

Here is How to Level Up!

• ✅
  Enrol in short-term IT certificates in AI, cloud computing, data analytics, or cybersecurity.
• ✅
  Explore platforms like edX, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning for specialised micro-courses.
• ✅
  Build a portfolio, participate in hackathons, and showcase your achievements.

Also Check:

• ✅
  5 Professional Online Certificates from Top MNCs to Land Jobs: Certifications from Google, IBM, Microsoft & More!
• ✅
  Do Online Short Courses Help Professionals In Career Enhancement?

Leadership & Communication – 21%

After tech and data, leadership and communication are the most in-demand skills among professionals, with 21% of respondents opting for them. From finance and market to tech and healthcare, every business needs an efficient leader. Meanwhile, communication is the key to effective leadership.

Here is Why It Matters

77% of organisations face challenges with leadership gaps at all levels. Over 70% of employers seek communication as an important skill in candidates for project success. The corporate sector is becoming versatile. Candidates need to collaborate with cross-functional teams for an individual project’s success. Lack of communication often leads to delayed responses and disappointing results.

Here is How to Level Up!

• ✅
  Joining public speaking clubs and communities helps boost confidence.
• ✅
  Participate in team volunteering to enhance your leadership skills.
• ✅
  Connect with more professionals from different expertise and cultural backgrounds.
• ✅
  Enrol in online leadership courses to flexibly gain skills.

Also Read: 5 Reasons Why Good Communication is Important for Career Growth

Global Mindset & Adaptability – 15%

While 15% of individuals opted for a global mindset and adaptability, these skills are crucial to every organisation. In this ever-evolving job market, adaptability is the key to success.

Here is Why It Matters

The corporate sector is ever-changing. Flexibility and adaptability are vital to thrive in every situation. In a digital world, where your next teammate could be in Tokyo or Toronto, the ability to think from a global perspective is the third most-prioritised skill. According to a report from LinkedIn (2025), 92% of professionals emphasise soft skills such as a global mindset and adaptability.

Here is How to Level Up!

• ✅
  Join international webinars and global industry forums.
• ✅
  Explore intercultural communication and people from different backgrounds.
• ✅
  Work more on short-term, cross-functional, or international projects.

Industry-Specific Expertise – 6%

With only 6% votes, the least number of professionals opted for industry-specific expertise. Does this mean it isn’t worth it? Surely not! To thrive in your desired niche with stability and long-term, having an understanding of how the industry functions and what its purpose is crucial.

Here is Why It Matters

Even though fewer people opted for it, industry-specific knowledge is still valuable. In domains like pharma, Fintech, manufacturing or aerospace, understanding of technicalities and industry standards can make a big difference. It helps you manage complicated tasks, follow regulations, and solve problems more efficiently.

Here is How to Level Up!

• ✅
  Attend masterclasses, webinars, and seminars from industry leaders.
• ✅
  Earn a professional certificate like PMP or CFA based on your domain.
• ✅
  Participate in discussion panels in your industry circles.

The Final Takeaway

While technical skills lead the poll, it is a combo meal that offers the best career value. As a professional in IT, data and tech skills are vital, while digital literacy is crucial to every sector. While leadership and communication ensure better project management, a global mindset and adaptability are a must to think and thrive strategically.

Similarly, industry expertise is important for employability; these are several soft skills that you can develop over time. Not only for the next 3 years, but data and tech skills are the future of eternity. Investing in tech-oriented degrees, diplomas, or certificates is a value for money, time, and career advancement.