The organization Institute for the Future works to provide research into future trends and phenomena.  Last year it published the report “Future Work Skills 2020″ where it outlined key skills that will significantly aid the workers of tomorrow.  Not only does it note a globally connected world as a major driver of change, but it also prominently describes cross-cultural competency as one of the essential work skills of the future.

The world becomes increasingly interconnected from business, to education and politics.  Companies and institutions spread their offices throughout the world, very often operating in vastly different cultures.  In addition, the advent of the Internet, mobile smart phones, and other technological breakthroughs have connected lives like never before.  As a result, the report describes how people of different cultures and backgrounds must interact with an unprecedented closeness.

The world’s growing interconnectivity is the inevitable reason why “Future Work Skills 2020″ defines cross-cultural connectivity as a key skill for the workforce of the future.  It is already a valued skill in the workplace, and the ability to understand other cultures and societies will only grow as global connectivity itself does.

“Future Works 2020″ reports on skills that will most likely be essential to success in the workplace and beyond.  While the future is never certain, it is a certainty that young people are the leaders of tomorrow.  AFS will continue to provide facilitated intercultural learning opportunities to all those involved in our programs, and encourage intercultural competence building by grounding in in theory and reflective practices the practical hands on experience they attain.

Click here to read “Future Works 2020″