6 future work skills you need in 2025:
For many mid-career professionals in New Zealand, the future of work feels uncertain.
Industries are evolving, automation is reshaping job roles, and the skills that were once enough to secure a stable career are no longer guaranteed to keep pace with change.
Many professionals are grappling with the same concerns - wondering which skills are worth investing in, how to balance learning with existing work commitments, and whether they’ll still be competitive in the job market five years from now.
Camilla Hamilton is Practice Director at Robert Half. Specialising in IT and technology recruitment, she knows how quick the job market and the skills required can change.
“In my five years as a tech recruiter, I've seen a dramatic acceleration in the pace of change. For example, cloud computing, once a niche area, is now fundamental, and we're seeing a surge in demand for specialists in areas like AI-driven cybersecurity, data science with a focus on machine learning, and developers proficient in low-code/no-code platforms. We're also witnessing a growing need for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen, like product managers with strong technical backgrounds and solution architects who can translate complex tech into actionable strategies."
At the same time, the most valuable skills for 2025 and beyond are not just technical. While digital fluency is increasingly important, employers also recognise the need for adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving - qualities that can be developed at any stage of a career.
“Having these soft skills can be the difference between landing the job, and being knocked back,” says Camilla.
No matter where you are in your professional journey, there are clear, practical steps you can take to stay ahead of change and position yourself for long-term success.
As specialised recruiters, we know what businesses want from new hires, and with strategic hiring top of mind, it is important you as a jobseeker know what New Zealand businesses are looking for to stand out amongst the crowd.
Let us guide you through the most sought-after future work skills for 2025 and offer actionable strategies to help you build them.
Whether you’re looking to pivot into a new industry or strengthen your current career path, the key is to focus on learning, growth, and flexibility.
Related: Want a list of the in-demand skills in your specialisation? Visit the Robert Half New Zealand Salary Guide.
The changing nature of work
New Zealand’s job market is experiencing a shift driven by digital transformation, automation, and evolving consumer needs.
Industries such as technology, healthcare, and sustainability are expanding rapidly, creating demand for professionals with specialised skills. At the same time, traditional job roles are evolving, with automation taking over repetitive tasks and requiring workers to focus on problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration.
For example, to improve customer experience or to manage repetitive tasks, artificial intelligence is already finding its way into many New Zealand organisations. In fact, 26% of employees are using generative AI tools almost every workday. Employers are often encouraging the ethical use of AI to create efficiencies and streamline workflows, resulting in 93% of workers being transparent with their employers/managers about their usage in day-to-day work. While it is not likely to impact talent pipelines yet, employers are looking to embrace not only the usage of artificial intelligence where it makes sense for their business, but also to embrace jobseekers and staff who actively seek to improve processes.
For career changers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in navigating a changing job market, but the opportunity is in proactively developing skills that are highly valued. The ability to adapt, reskill, and remain agile will be essential.
Related: Top skills to put on your resume
Essential future work skills in 2025
To remain relevant in New Zealand’s evolving workforce, professionals should focus on building a combination of technical competencies and human-centric skills.
1. Digital literacy
Technology is now embedded in almost every profession. Employees who understand how to work with digital tools and interpret data will be more valuable to employers. From financial analysts to marketing professionals, data-driven decision-making is becoming the norm.
How to develop digital literacy:
Learn the fundamentals of data analysis and visualization (Excel, Power BI, or Google Analytics).
Explore basic coding or automation tools (Python, SQL) to improve workflow efficiency.
Take free or low-cost courses on digital literacy through platforms like Google Digital Garage.
Camilla says, “I always tell my candidates, invest in yourself. Take online courses, explore new software, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Even small steps, like learning to automate tasks with simple scripts or understanding basic data visualisation, can make a huge difference. Find someone in your business who does this well and ask them to mentor you. It's about being adaptable and showing employers you're ready for the future of work."
2. Adaptability
The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is one of the most critical skills for the future. As industries evolve, professionals who embrace change and proactively seek new knowledge will have an advantage.
How to develop adaptability:
Stay informed about industry trends and technological advancements.
Engage in continuous learning through online courses, workshops, or professional networks.
Seek mentorship or coaching to help navigate career transitions.
“Adapting is one of the more important skills you will need in your work, but also in life generally!” says Camilla.
“Things can change in an instant, from team restructuring to sudden shifts in market demand, unexpected technological advancements, or even global events that reshape entire industries. Being able to pivot, learn new systems quickly, and embrace change without resistance is what sets successful professionals apart. And honestly, it's a skill you can practice. Start small, be open to new ideas, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You'll be surprised how much it benefits you in the long run."
Related: Learn about soft skills
3. Critical thinking
As automation takes over routine tasks, professionals will need to focus on complex problem-solving and strategic thinking. Employers value individuals who can assess situations critically and make sound decisions.
How to develop critical thinking:
Practice decision-making exercises and case study analyses.
Engage in structured problem-solving frameworks such as design thinking.
Participate in discussions and debates that challenge conventional thinking.
“Similar to adaptability, critical thinking is one of the top skills all businesses ask for when hiring new talent. They place very high value on professionals who can analyse complex situations, identify underlying issues, and develop solutions. They're looking for individuals who can not only solve immediate problems, but also anticipate future challenges and contribute strategically to the organisation's long-term success."
Related: Dive deeper into critical thinking skills
4. Cyber-security awareness
With the increasing reliance on digital platforms, cyber-security is no longer the responsibility of IT teams alone. Every professional should understand basic cyber-security principles to protect sensitive data and ensure digital security.
How to develop cyber-security awareness:
Take an introductory cyber-security awareness course.
Learn best practices for password management, phishing prevention, and data protection.
Stay informed about cyber-security risks through New Zealand’s CERT NZ resources.
“While I place cyber-security talent, cyber-security knowledge is becoming a more prominent requirement among business leaders. They're realising it's not just an IT department problem anymore. We're seeing CEOs asking about data breach response plans, CFOs wanting to understand the financial risks of cyberattacks, and even HR departments needing to be aware of phishing scams targeting employee data. It’s because a single breach can cripple operations, devastate customer trust, and lead to massive financial losses. Business leaders are understanding that a proactive, company-wide approach to cyber-security is no longer a luxury, but a necessity," says Camilla.
5. Leadership
Even in highly technical fields, leadership and emotional intelligence are key differentiators. The ability to communicate effectively, manage teams, and navigate workplace dynamics is essential for career growth.
How to develop leadership:
Read books and take courses on emotional intelligence and leadership skills.
Practice active listening and feedback techniques in workplace interactions.
Engage in leadership training or mentorship programs to develop management skills.
Camilla says that leadership isn't just about managing teams; it's about navigating constant change and inspiring innovation.
And on top of that, it can be the reason why attrition rates are so low or high in a team.
“Strong leaders can be the single reason as to why employees decide to stay with a business. Trust is so important for retention, which is why leadership experience is strongly sought-after at a time when keeping company knowledge is top of mind.”
6. Creativity
In a rapidly changing job market, creativity is becoming a business necessity. Companies are looking for employees who can generate fresh ideas, solve problems in innovative ways, and drive growth.
How to develop creativity:
Experiment with creative problem-solving techniques, such as lateral thinking exercises.
Follow case studies of businesses that have leveraged innovation to adapt to change.
Participate in brainstorming sessions and innovation workshops to practice creative thinking.
You may be thinking, how can my job in finance or technology allow for creativity?
"True innovation comes from creative problem-solving. In finance, it might mean designing new, customer-centric financial products or finding ingenious ways to mitigate risk. In tech, it could be about imagining novel applications for AI or developing intuitive user interfaces. Both fields demand professionals who can think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, and adapt to the rapid pace of change,” says Camilla.
How to upskill and stay competitive in New Zealand
For professionals looking to stay competitive in 2025 and beyond, strategic upskilling is essential.
Fortunately, there are several resources available in New Zealand to help individuals build the right competencies.
Online learning platforms
Many professionals choose self-paced learning through online platforms. Some recommended options include:
The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand – Offers a variety of flexible courses.
Tech Future NZ – Provides digital skills training and insights into technology trends.
LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Udemy – Offer internationally recognised courses in high-demand skills.
Government-funded upskilling programs
New Zealand’s government supports career transition and workforce development through initiatives such as:
Tertiary Education Commission NZ – Offers resources and funding for career changers.
Work and Income NZ – Provides financial assistance for retraining programs.
Networking and professional development
Career success is not just about what you know, but also who you connect with. Professionals looking to transition into new roles should consider:
Joining industry-specific networking groups and events.
Engaging with LinkedIn communities and professional organisations.
Seeking mentorship and career coaching to navigate career changes.
“Those who invest in continuous learning, whether it's through online courses, certifications, or on-the-job training, are the ones who remain relevant, adaptable, and ultimately, indispensable to their employers,” concludes Camilla.
Related: How to increase your employee value
Take charge of your future work skills
Adapting to the future of work isn’t just about keeping up - it’s about building confidence in your ability to evolve and succeed.
The workforce in New Zealand is changing, but so are the opportunities. Employers are actively seeking professionals who embrace lifelong learning, think critically, and bring creativity to problem-solving.
If you’re feeling uncertain about what’s next, remember that small, intentional steps can lead to significant career growth. Whether that means taking an online course, networking with industry professionals, or simply staying informed about market trends, each step brings you closer to future-proofing your career.
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Many professionals are in the same position, and support is available - from upskilling programs and government initiatives to professional communities and career mentors. The most important thing is to start.
The future of work belongs to those who are willing to adapt, learn, and grow. No matter where you are today, you have the power to shape where you go next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which skill is best for future 2025?
The best skills to have in 2025 are:
Digital literacy
Adaptability
Critical thinking
Cyber-security awareness
Leadership
Creativity
What career will be in demand in 2025?
In demand roles in 2025 in finance and accounting include:
Financial Accountant
Finance Manager/Controller
FP&A Analyst
Assistant Accountant
Accounts Payable Officer
In demand roles in 2025 in IT and technology include:
Senior Software Developer
DevOps Engineer
Security Engineer
Systems Engineer
IT Support
Visit the Robert Half Salary Guide to see the salaries for these roles.
What are the most desired skills by employers 2025?
Digital literacy
Adaptability
Critical thinking
Cyber-security awareness
Leadership
Creativity
