Evolving Leadership through Upskilling, Reskilling, and Outskilling
The pace of change in today’s workforce isn’t slowing down—and leaders who want to stay relevant can’t afford to stand still. In this episode, we’re talking about how intelligent leaders evolve by upskilling, reskilling, or even outskilling. It’s not just about staying employed—it’s about staying impactful.
We’ll break down what each of these strategies actually looks like in practice, why they matter now more than ever, and how to decide which path makes sense depending on where you are in your career. From identifying skill gaps and finding the right mentors to building visibility and influence within your organization, this episode offers a practical roadmap for anyone ready to take charge of their growth.
You’ll also hear about the global shift toward continuous learning—and why technical know-how alone isn’t enough anymore. Soft skills, strategic relationships, and a clear leadership brand are just as important. By the end, you’ll have tangible steps to future-proof your career and keep building a life and leadership path that’s sustainable, no matter what’s ahead.
Episode Highlights:
[00:02:30] Today, we'll talk about how intelligent leaders evolve and expand their impact by upskilling, reskilling, or outskilling.
[00:03:29] Job markets are evolving and changing at a rapid pace.
[00:04:19] Workers need to take ownership of their careers and create intentional plans. They must empower themselves by actively seeking out resources and sharpening their skills.
[00:05:06] The responsibility to design the career and life that we desire rests within us.
[00:05:48] What skills and experiences do I need to move forward? Clarify goals. What does advancement mean to you?
[00:07:19] Ask directly what's needed to advance in your organization. Network, connect, and schedule information interviews.
[00:08:04] How learning is a lifelong process even after retiring. Examples of successful launches of entrepreneurs who were at retirement age.
[00:09:36] Who can I learn from and how can I expand my network?
[00:11:52] Organizations want to invest in people who they know and believe in. Networking can help get you those recommendations.
[00:12:49] Make building meaningful connections a priority.
[00:13:19] How am I actively shaping the narrative of my leadership journey?
[00:14:44] Intelligent leaders evolve and adapt by staying proactive.
[00:15:50] Upcoming demands of the 4th Industrial Revolution will change the skills needed for jobs.
[00:16:12] Upskilling involves improving a leader's existing skill sets through training and development programs.
[00:17:13] Reskilling includes learning an entire new set of skills to take on a different job.
[00:18:02] outskilling is an option for workers to self-initiate if they desire to find a new career path on their own.
[00:19:59] Top skills needed this year and beyond include analytical thinking and innovation, active learning and learning strategies, complex problem solving skills, critical thinking and analysis, creativity, originality, and initiative.
[00:21:15] Soft skills are often one of the most important factors for promotion.
[00:22:35] Leaders need to become far more focused on how they sustain themselves.
[00:23:45] Leaders should also practice sense making or understanding the complex dynamics of their environment.
[00:24:37] If your role is shrinking, you may want to consider reskilling.
[00:25:33] Steps to future proof yourself include assessing your transferable skills, investing in continuous learning, and leveraging your networks.
[00:28:32] Find mentors and opportunities to gain additional experience.
[00:29:47] Upskilling, reskilling, and outskilling aren't just survival tactics. They're strategies for thriving in an ever-evolving professional landscape.
Resources & Links Related to this Episode
● THINK Globally LEAD Strategically: A Christian Guide to Building Effective Leaders
● YOUTH LEADERSHIP: The Untapped Resource
● Leadership Communications: The Top 5 Tips
● We Need A Global Reskilling Revolution – Here's Why
● Bridging The Skills Gap: Fuelling Careers And The Economy In Asia-Pacific
● Future-Proof India's Workforce: Top Strategies for Retention and Upskilling
● Global Social Media Statistics
● How Leaders Can Adapt To An Evolving Workforce In The Age Of AI
● Upskilling and reskilling for talent transformation in the era of AI
