Skills to Help You Thrive in an Automated Workforce

As technology reshapes the way we work, a balanced mix of technical and interpersonal skills will set you apart, helping you thrive in the job market.

Why it matters

Being able to adjust to new tools, roles, and challenges is key to staying relevant. Employers need workers who can pivot quickly, take on new tasks, and thrive in dynamic environments.

How to get these skills

Be willing to take on new responsibilities to gain experience. Develop a growth mindset by seeking feedback and embracing challenges as opportunities for learning. Chris Pastor (Clinical Psychologist) offers practical advice on adapting to change in this video.

Why it matters

Jobs across industries increasingly require digital fluency. Technical skills ensure you can operate advanced tools, analyse data, and adapt to emerging technologies, making you an invaluable asset in any workplace.

How to get these skills

MAX is a provider of the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program that provides free language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills training to eligible Australians. Find out more about how you can access this program here. 

You can also speak to your Job Coach about improving your digital literacy skills through our Digital Literacy Course. 

Real Life Story

“Instead of just being told that I had to get a job, MAX equipped me with practical skills and guidance to enter the workforce – real, proper help.” 

After spending 17 years in incarceration, Amnah came to MAX hoping for a fresh start. The care and encouragement from her Job Coach Alvi sparked her motivation to embark on a new journey in the hospitality industry. MAX helped her get her barista license and brought her up to date with digital literacy skills through the Digital Literacy Short Course delivered by our training team. 

Amnah spent a week in the MAX Haymarket office completing the Digital Literacy course, during which time she carefully observed how the MAX staff there interacted with other customers: “The MAX staff are full of support and don’t discriminate against people.” Amnah also praised her Digital Literacy Short Course trainer Monir, saying “He made things easy to understand and very practical for me.”

With two qualifications under her belt in a short amount of time, Amnah is proud of being able to put her achievements on her resume and is ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.

Why it matters

Employers prioritise employees who can anticipate challenges, think strategically, and offer creative solutions.

Consider Upskilling or Re-Skilling through Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Beyond teaching technical skills, VET fosters critical thinking and problem-solving by immersing students in real-world scenarios. Through project-based learning, workplace simulations, and practical challenges, students learn to systemically analyse issues, evaluate potential solutions, and make informed decisions.  

For example, in fields like healthcare, engineering, or trades, VET graduates are not only prepared to operate advanced tools but also to think critically about how to improve processes, enhance outcomes, and drive efficiency.

Find out more about the VET courses we offer here. 

Why it matters

The ability to articulate ideas clearly, listen actively, and collaborate with others is critical for teamwork. 

How to get these skills

If you are a person from a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse background, the Adult Migrant English Program is a free service to help eligible migrants and humanitarian entrants improve their English language skills and settle into Australia. More than learning English, our Trainers can help you enhance your communication skills through collaborative learning activities in the classroom. 

Real Life Story

Our Job Coaches assist our Employment customers with interview preparation to further enhance their communication skills.

Jason wanted a career change into hospitality when he moved to Murgon. In addition to supporting him with building a resume, providing phone access, interview clothing and job referrals, his Job Coach worked with him to hone his communication and teamwork skills. This resulted in Jason securing employment as a kitchen hand at the Murgon RSL.

Why it matters

High EQ enhances workplace harmony, builds trust, and ensures effective collaboration. In the workplace, EQ plays a vital role in managing conflict and reducing stress. 

Check out these videos by Chris Pastor (Clinical Psychologist) on how to handle workplace conflict and stress. 

Real Life Story

Melanie is a single mum who worked as a domestic cleaner, but living with chronic pain made it extremely difficult for her to continue in this line of work. Melanie was at a loss as she thought that cleaning was the only skill she could utilise for employment, even though she had qualifications in Individual Support, Community Service and Business.

However, Melanie’s Job Coach could see that Melanie had the natural ability to care for others and arranged for Melanie to attend a job interview as a carer. Melanie’s caring qualities were so apparent that she was offered a job on the spot!

Why it matters

In industries disrupted by AI and automation, originality is a distinctly human advantage. This skill is highly valued, as employers want workers who have the ability to develop innovative ideas, improve processes, and find opportunities others might miss. 

How to get these skills

Don’t be afraid to try new hobbies and projects. You can participate in creative workshops hosted by community libraries or centres.  

MAX Job Coaches can help you think creatively about career paths and identify transferable skills.

Real Life Story

Matthew is a MAX customer who lives with Autism. His artistic talent became his advantage, landing him a job as a cartoonist. Matthew’s story demonstrates how creativity remains invaluable in the age of automation. Read the full story here. 

Why it matters

Employers value workers who go beyond expectations and contribute to the success of the workplace. 

How to get these skills

Seek feedback in the workplace, so that you can continually improve.  

You can also speak to your MAX Job Coach to help you with goal-setting techniques to encourage proactive behaviour and accountability. 

Check out this video about good goal setting.

While technical expertise ensures you can meet the demands of an increasingly automated workforce, your interpersonal skills will set you apart as a valuable contributor.

A balanced skill set helps you stay resilient and confident in navigating challenges and embracing opportunities. Every skill you develop is an investment in your future.