top of page
Writer's pictureJohnson Odakkal, PhD, CEO

99 Skills of 21st Century Market Place : Week 9

Welcome to week 9 of our journey through the 99 Skills of 21st Century Market Place. This week, we will be focusing on three essential skills that are highly valued in the modern workplace: Team Player, Data Visualization, and Computer Proficiency. In today's fast-paced and constantly evolving business landscape, it is more important than ever to possess these skills to succeed and thrive. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, understanding how to be a team player, create compelling visual representations of data, and navigate computer systems with ease can give you a competitive edge and help you achieve your goals. So, let's dive in and explore these skills in more detail!

25. Team Player

A Quote :

"None of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful." ~ Mother Teresa

An Example :

In today's fast-paced work environment, being a team player is a critical skill that can make or break a project. A great example of this is the success story of the Apollo 13 mission. When an oxygen tank exploded, it left the spacecraft with limited resources and created a life-threatening situation for the crew. The ground team, led by Gene Kranz, pulled together and worked tirelessly to develop a plan to bring the crew safely back to Earth. Each member of the team played a crucial role in the success of the mission, from engineers designing makeshift filters to astronauts who had to work together to conserve power and resources. By working as a cohesive team, they were able to overcome the impossible and bring the crew back home safely.

In everyday work environments, being a team player can also have a significant impact on the success of a project. When colleagues work together and share their unique skills and perspectives, they can create innovative solutions and achieve their goals efficiently. By being a team player, individuals can build stronger relationships with their colleagues, establish a positive work culture, and accomplish more than what could be achieved alone.

A Definition: A team player is someone who works collaboratively with others in a group or team to achieve a common goal. They have strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with their colleagues.

A Checklist :

  1. Develop strong communication skills, including active listening and clear, concise messaging.

  2. Be open-minded and receptive to feedback and constructive criticism.

  3. Be willing to collaborate and contribute to group discussions and brainstorming sessions.

  4. Display a positive attitude and willingness to help others.

  5. Respect the opinions and perspectives of others.

  6. Foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration within the workplace.

26. Data Visualization

A Quote :

"The art and practice of visualizing data is becoming ever more important in bridging the human-computer gap to mediate analytical insight in a meaningful way" ~ Edd Dumbill

An Example :

Data visualization is the practice of presenting complex data in an easily digestible visual format. It allows the viewer to understand information quickly and effectively. The importance of data visualization has been recognized by many organizations in recent years as it can lead to better decision-making and improved communication.

In 2014, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa was a global health crisis. It was difficult to understand the scale and spread of the disease due to the complexity of data and statistics involved. However, data visualization played a crucial role in raising awareness about the outbreak and mobilizing resources for the response. The World Health Organization (WHO) created an interactive map that showed the number of cases and deaths in real-time. This helped the public to understand the severity of the situation and the need for immediate action.

Another example is from the retail industry. The online retailer Amazon uses data visualization extensively to track its sales and customer behavior. The company analyzes vast amounts of data from customer searches, purchase history, and feedback to identify trends and opportunities. This helps them to optimize their product offerings and improve the overall customer experience.

In both examples, data visualization played a key role in making sense of complex data and communicating it effectively to the public and the organization's stakeholders. It highlights the importance of data visualization in facilitating better decision-making, problem-solving, and communication in various industries.

A Definition: Data visualization is the representation of data in a visual format, such as charts, graphs, and maps. It is used to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for users to understand and analyze large amounts of data.

A Checklist :

  1. Understand the different types of data visualization and their purpose.

  2. Choose the appropriate type of visualization for the data being presented.

  3. Keep the design simple and easy to understand, using appropriate colors and labeling.

  4. Ensure the visualization is accurate and correctly represents the data.

  5. Consider the audience and their level of understanding of the data being presented.

  6. Continuously improve your skills by staying up-to-date with new visualization techniques and tools.

27. Computer Proficiency

A Quote :

"Computers themselves, and software yet to be developed, will revolutionize the way we learn" ~ Steve Jobs

An Example :

Computer proficiency is an essential skill in the modern workplace, where computers and technology are pervasive. This skill involves a basic understanding of computer hardware and software, as well as the ability to navigate different computer applications and programs efficiently. With the increase in remote work and reliance on technology, computer proficiency has become more critical than ever.

One instance where computer proficiency was vital was during the COVID-19 pandemic when many businesses were forced to transition to remote work. Companies that had invested in computer proficiency training for their employees found it easier to make the switch to remote work and maintain their productivity levels. Those that lacked computer proficiency struggled to adapt and fell behind.

Computer proficiency also plays a significant role in streamlining business operations, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. Companies that can leverage computer technology effectively can perform tasks quicker and more accurately, leading to increased profits and business growth.

In conclusion, computer proficiency is a skill that has become increasingly necessary for success in the modern workplace. It empowers employees to work more efficiently and effectively, streamlines business operations, and helps organizations stay competitive in today's market.

A Definition: Computer proficiency is the ability to use computer software and hardware effectively and efficiently. It includes the ability to use common software programs such as Microsoft Office, email, and web browsers, as well as more specialized software used in specific industries or roles.

A Checklist :

  1. Familiarize yourself with common software programs used in your industry or role.

  2. Learn basic computer skills such as keyboard shortcuts, file management, and troubleshooting common issues.

  3. Keep your software and hardware up-to-date and maintain good computer hygiene.

  4. Stay current with new software programs and technology trends.

  5. Take advantage of training opportunities and online resources to improve your skills.

  6. Experiment with new tools and software to expand your knowledge and capabilities.

Come & Collaborate

Thank you for joining us on this journey through 99 skills at the 21st-century workplace. We believe that the key to success is continuous learning, so we encourage you to keep seeking out new knowledge and skills.

To help you on your path, we are offering a special #DISCovery Session for our readers. This one-on-one coaching session will help you identify your strengths, set career goals, and progress to a personalized plan for success. To book your session, go to at https://go.johnsonodakkal.com/DISCover and use the code "99SKILLS" for a special discount.

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Post: Blog2_Post
bottom of page