Top 10 Career Skills of 2016 Part 2

LinkedIN recently released their Top 10 career Skills of 2016 for 14 countries. India was included in their list, and we have decoded these ten skills for you.The first five were shared in Part 1.Here in Part 2, we bring you  the remaining 5.

1. ALGORITHM  DESIGN -

Algorithm design is the method of creating mathematical process in solving problems.It can be a hand written process, e.g. set of equations, a series of mechanical processes done by hand, an analog piece of equipment, or a digital process and/or processor.Algorithm design is identified and incorporated into many solution theories of operation research, such as dynamic programming and divide-and-conquer. Some current day uses of algorithm design can be found in internet retrieval processes of web crawling, packet routing and caching.Algorithm design is not a language.Mainframe programming languages such as ALGOL (for Algorithmic language), FORTRAN, COBOL, PL/I, SAIL, and SNOBOL are computing tools to implement an "algorithm design". One of the most important aspects of algorithm design is creating an algorithm that has an efficient runtime, also known as its Big O.

What you need - There is nothing like ‘’Learning Algorithms’’.It is designing (solving problems) using algorithms.Before you jump into a computer language or the algorithms,you would have to learn Discrete mathematics such as Graph theory,Induction, sets,matrix and other associated theorems.Finally you would need Data Structures to actually program the solutions in a computer language.Learn a programming language like C and Python so that you can grasp data structures ( C ) and practice implementing the algorithms (Python).

Few online Courses you could dig through - Sites like Topcoder and Codeforces have a high quality of problems which are categorized based on the topic and also allow you to see other’s code post contest completion.Some other popular judges include SPOJ,CodeChef (powered by SPOJ) and HackerEarth.PEGWiki ,  Codechef Tutorials ,MIT's Advanced Data Structure Course ,Stanford's Competitive Programming Course found at Coursera.

2. NETWORK AND INFORMATION SECURITY

Network security consists of the policies and practices adopted to prevent and monitor unauthorized access, misuse, modification of a computer network and network-accessible resources. It involves the authorization of access to data in a network,as well as protecting and overseeing operations being done.Network security covers a variety of computer networks, both public and private, that are used in everyday jobs; conducting transactions and communications among businesses, government agencies ,organizations,enterprises and individuals. A network administrator works proactively to maintain computer infrastructures with emphasis on networking with on-site servers, software-network interactions as well as network integrity/resilience being the key areas of focus.The role of the network administrator can vary significantly with some organizations working on a user-to-technical support ratio,whilst others implement many other strategies. This type of work will often include network monitoring,updates,installing and maintaining security systems ,filters and evaluating implementing network.

What you need - For this a bachelors in Information technology/Computer science/Software engineering would be a prerequisite along with a certification in computer security .Some positions require IT certification and experience in IT support skills,familiarity with Unix/Windows ,knowledge of securities system infrastructure ,network operating systems ,SQL,LAN,Cisco and laptop email encryption and the ability to identify phishing attempts.

Few certifications you could dig through - The most sought after certifications are  ISSEP/CISSP , (CSA/LPT) , GPEN , GSEC, CSFA,ECSP,CCSE,CSSLP

3. PR  AND COMMUNICATIONS

Public relations is a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and the public. The aim of public relations is to inform the public, prospective customers, investors, partners, employees, and other stakeholders and persuade them to maintain a certain view about the organization, itsleadership, products, or political decisions. Public relations professionals typically work for PR and marketing firms, companies, government, government agencies and public officials as PIOs and nongovernmental organizations, and nonprofit organizations. Jobs central to public relations include account coordinator, account executive, account supervisor, and media relations manager.Their responsibilities can include acting as a ,spokesperson,managing media conferences ,website and media content,internal communication,crisis management and marketing  activities like brand awareness and event management.

What you need - Good communication skills are a prerequisite and research ,writing and creativity will give you boost . A Bachelor’s degree in Marketing,Mass Communication /Journalism or a related field is needed.Also sharpen or add digital skills to stay relevant.Some employers give preference to candidates with internship,school leadership or communications experience.Professionals with at least five years experience may get accreditation from a professional association.University of Southern Queensland

Few courses you can dig through - Education Portal (via Lifehacker)recently featured Universities offering free online courses in Social Media -New Media Literacies (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Stanford on iTunes U (Stanford University).Public Relations - Marketing Communications As A Strategic Function (The Open University),Stanford on iTunes U (Stanford University) and Communication Technology and Policy (University of Southern Queensland).

4. ECONOMICS

The social science discipline of economics is projected to grow more than the rate of the current average with the largest area of growth being private industry ,consulting and economic research. The increasing intricacy of the world economy, higher competition, and the fact that more business predictions are based on quantitative analysis ,will lead to a higher demand for the services of economists. As the skills of economists become more valuable in many different industries, there will be more jobs. Basically economists do is analyze ,research and monitoring exchange rates, business trends, taxation, employment rates, inflation, and costs of materials.They find trends and develop predictions based on this data. There are many sub-fields, ranging from the broad philosophical theories to the study of specific markets, macroeconomic analysis, microeconomic analysis or financial statement analysis, involving econometrics, statistics, economics computational models, financial economics, mathematical finance and mathematical economics.Many corporations require the skills of microeconomists for  projecting customer demand or product sales, both of the client firm and their competitors to maximize profit. These economists also review new legislation, like minimum wage requirements or tariffs, and how it will affect their client. Large business with many smaller branches might also have economists assess the economy of countries where branches exists or where they are looking to open new branches.

What you need -For a sound career in Economics you need  Math and analytical skills, computer skills, technology skills and a detail oriented mindset.With a background in economics it seems anything is possible.Economics careers in Finance,Banking,Accounting,Acturial and Data Analysis ,Business and financial consultancy and other sectors are widely available to those with just a graduate degree.An economics major can get additional qualification to  become a professional economist, auditor ,stockbroker,insurer,business manager,retail merchandizer ,pricing analyst and financial consultant .Some jobs especially as an economist may require an PhD.

Few courses you can dig through - Most economics degrees are full time courses.Online certifications and specializations are available at Harvard ,MIT and ,INOMICS.

5. PUBLIC POLICY AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Public policy is the principled guide to action taken by the state with regard to a class of issues, in a manner consistent with law, judicial interpretations and and institutional customs and regulations Public policy is considered strong when it solves problems efficiently and effectively, serves justice, supports governmental institutions and policies, and encourages active citizenship.It is a continuous,dynamic, complex, and interactive system through which public problems are identified and countered by creating new or by reforming existing public policy. It has many feedback loops and verification and evaluation are essential to the functioning of this system.The public problems that influence public policy making can be of economic, social, or political nature.In fact public policy and international relations provides the foundation for understanding the ways in which contemporary public policy crosses and superseeds national boundaries in the  increasingly integrated global environment of trade ,information and technology,threats to national security and global ecosystem.With increasing global interdependence, hard distinctions between foreign and domestic policy no longer exist.International relations topics and specializations include conflict and peace-making, comparative foreign policy,environmental policy,human rights, trade and financial regulation,international law, diplomatic tools and processes ,migration and refugees, international security,and the role of international organizations such as the European Union.

What you need - Public policy and  international relations programs tend to attract students from a fairly diverse range of academic backgrounds. However – while it is possible to cross over from the natural or life sciences or technology – it’s fair to say that the majority of applicants are from the arts, humanities and social sciences.Some Masters in International Relations have more specific requirements. For instance, students may be required to have completed at least some basic courses in economics before enrolling.

Few courses you can dig through -  Most degrees are full time graduate or masters level programs. Some programs offer a broad overview of major international relations topics, while others are clearly focused on a particular area. Some offer internships as part of the course, while most will include project work and independent research.Graduate and Masters level courses are available in online at American University ,Harvard Kennedy School and online course credits are available at most leading universities around the world.

While these are the skills are most in demand in the Job market,it is useful to figure out your competencies and personal qualities to help build on your confidence and discover what you have to offer and where you fit in best .