• Home
  • Courses by Subject
    • Accounting
      • Accounting
      • Bookkeeping
      • Payroll
      • Xero
    • Administration
      • Administration
      • Business Administration
      • Medical Secretary
      • Personal Assistant
      • Secretarial
    • Animal Health & Wellbeing
      • Animal Care
      • Dog Grooming
      • Vet Assistant
      • Zoology
    • Building & Construction
      • Construction
      • Landscaping
    • Business & Finance
      • Banking
      • Business
      • Business Communication
      • Business Management
      • Consultancy
      • Finance
      • Logistics
      • Sales
      • Supply Chain Management
      • Trading
    • Design
      • Gardening
      • Graphic Design
      • Interior Design
      • Web Design
    • Digital Skills
      • Analytics
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • Blockchain
      • Cloud Computing
      • CompTIA
      • CompTIA A+
      • Computer Science
      • Cryptocurrency
      • Cyber Security
      • Data Science
      • Ethical Hacking
      • IT
      • IT Support
      • Networking
      • Penetration Testing
    • Ecology
      • Sustainability
    • Education
      • A-Level
      • GCSE
      • Teaching
      • Teaching Assistant
    • Fashion & Beauty
      • Hair & Beauty
      • Massage
      • Nail Technician
    • Health & Safety
      • Construction Health & Safety
      • Work Health & Safety
    • Healthcare
      • Care
      • Childcare
      • Counselling
      • Criminal Psychology
      • Health
      • Healthcare Management
      • Mental Health
      • Nursing
      • Nutrition
      • Personal Training
      • Psychology
      • Public Health
      • Social Care
    • Hospitality & Events
      • Event Management
      • Floristry
      • Hospitality
      • Wedding Planner
    • HR
      • CIPD
      • Human Resources
      • Learning & Development
    • Law & Justice
      • Criminology
      • Forensic Science
      • Governance
      • Law
      • Legal
    • Management & Leadership
      • Agile
      • Change Management
      • Leadership
      • Lean Six Sigma
      • Management
      • Operations Management
      • Personal Development
      • PRINCE2
      • Project Management
      • Quality Management
      • Real Estate
    • Marketing & Communication
      • Digital Marketing
      • Marketing
      • Media
      • Music
      • Public Relations
      • Social Media Marketing
    • Microsoft
      • Microsoft
      • Microsoft Azure
    • Programming
      • App Development
      • Cisco
      • Cisco CCNA
      • Programming
      • Python
      • Software Development
      • Web Development
    • Tourism
      • Travel & Tourism
    • University
      • Business Management
      • Business
      • Criminal Psychology
      • Criminology
      • Finance
      • IT
      • Law
      • Marketing
      • Psychology
    • Blended
    • In-class
    • Online
    • A-Level
    • Advanced Certificate
    • Advanced Diploma
    • Award
    • Bachelors
    • CertHE
    • Certificate
    • Certified
    • CPD
    • Diploma
    • Extended Diploma
    • Foundation
    • GCSE
    • Level 1
    • Level 2
    • Level 3
    • Level 4
    • Level 5
    • Level 6
    • Level 7
    • Level 8
    • LLB
    • LLM
    • Masters
    • MBA
    • MSc
    • Postgraduate
    • Practitioner
    • Short
    • Undergraduate
    • University
  • Courses by Providers
    • Acudemy
    • Avado
    • BARBRI
    • Brunel University London
    • CIPP
    • Course2Career
    • DLC Training
    • DPG
    • e-Courses4you
    • Hudson
    • ICS Learn
    • Institute of Supply Chain Mana
    • International Career Institute
    • ITonlinelearning
    • Learning People
    • London College of Contemporary Music
    • London School of Business and Finance Online
    • Next Level Impact
    • Online Courses Learning
    • Open Study College
    • Samuel & Co
    • The Career Academy
    • TPT Consultancy & Training
    • University College of Estate Management
    • University of Essex Online
    • University of Liverpool Online
    • University of Roehampton Online
    • Walbrook Institute London
    • How To Become
    • Career Advice
    • Study Tips
    • Quizzes
    • Resources
    • Industry Insider
  • Top Courses
  • Become a Partner
  • Contact us
  • The Workforce Training Hub
 


Published 25 Apr 2019

Unlock Your New Career With These In-Demand Job Skills

by CoursesOnline Contributors

Browse Courses

Looking for a new job this year? Then you’ll be glad to know that professional networking website LinkedIn has revealed which job skills employers want the most. So If a career change is on the cards, keep reading to discover our pick of 2019’s most sought-after skills.

 

1. UX Design Skills


User experience design is all about improving the design of digital products and services so that they’re more user-friendly. By bringing UX designers on board, businesses and developers can ensure that their websites and mobile apps look great, run smoothly and are enjoyable to use.


Who employs UX designers?


  • The education sector
  • Finance companies
  • The health sector
  • Publishing
  • Telecommunications
  • Marketing companies
  • Broadcasting companies
  • Public bodies
  • Charities
  • Digital agencies
  • Web development agencies

Which UX design skills are in high demand?


A solid understanding of HTML is essential for UX design roles, but employers are also keen to employ people with a working knowledge of commonly used software such as Azure, InVision, Marvel, OmniGraffle, Sketch and the Adobe Creative Suite.

As well as having the right skills, aspiring designers need to gain some relevant work experience in order to create a portfolio. So if you’re keen on a career in UX design, why not ask to take on a small project for your current employer or offer to improve the website of a local charity or community project?

LinkedIn is also a great place to look for opportunities, as many employers use the network to advertise internships. Once you’ve gained some experience, add any design work you’ve produced to your portfolio and share your work on social media or blog about it.

Learning about the design industry’s latest trends is also crucial if you want a career in UX, so we recommend joining a few specialist LinkedIn groups. This is also a great way to start making connections with the UX community. You can also check out sites such as UX Tools which feature plenty of resources that can help support you in developing your skills and confidence.

Other key skills UX designers need


IT and programming
An eye for design
Thinking creatively
Mathematical aptitude
Problem-solving
Project management
Time management
Flexibility

What qualifications do UX designers need?


A degree in computer science, graphic design or another subject that includes a design or computing element will give you a head start when it comes to finding work as a UX designer. If you already have a solid grasp of HTML and the software used in UX work, any degree is acceptable, although a masters degree in UX Design will boost your chances of bagging your dream job! There are also a few apprenticeships up for grabs.

What does the role involve?


UX designers spend their time meeting clients to discuss their requirements, sketching visual concepts, creating user journeys, developing personas and coming up with prototypes. They also carry out usability testing and redesign websites.

If you become a designer, you’ll work across various platforms including mobiles, tablets and computers. Teamwork is an important part of UX design work, so expect to collaborate with other designers, engineers, business analysts and project managers.

Experienced UX designers earn

from
£30,000 - £0,000

2. Cloud Computing Skills


One in five IT vacancies now require candidates to have some experience of cloud computing.



Companies using cloud services avoid the cost of maintaining and owning their own computing infrastructure, as they rely on a shared pool of computing resources which they access via the internet. This gives their employees the ability to access applications and documents remotely without having to use a hard drive.

Who employs computing specialists?


  • IT companies
  • Technology companies
  • Banks
  • Car manufacturers
  • Retailers
  • Governments
  • Charities
  • Health organisations
  • Public bodies

Which cloud computing skills are in high demand?


The most popular IT skills for cloud computing jobs include the ability to use Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS, Salesforce, Google Cloud and DevOps. Employers also ask for knowledge of specific programming languages like Java, Python and Perl, as well as experience with operating systems such as Linux. Understanding a database querying language such as SQL is also essential for many cloud computing roles.

Other key skills cloud computing requires


Business skills
Financial skills
Data analysis skills
Problem-solving skills
Listening skills
Organisational skills
Project management skills
People skills

What qualifications do you need?


To land a cloud computing role, you’ll usually require a degree in computer science or a related subject. However, some UK universities are moving away from general computer science degrees and replacing them with more specialist degrees in cloud computing and cyber-security.

While you could further your expertise by taking a master’s in cloud computing, if you’re not interested in research we recommend exploring the range of professional qualifications on offer. These specialise in the specific platforms that many companies use, including Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure and Oracle Cloud. If you decide to follow this route, it’s well worth signing up for any free trials that are available, as this will enable you to gain some highly valued hands-on experience.


What roles are on offer?

Cloud computing jobs cover many aspects of IT including maintenance, cyber-security and system development. While computing analysts, cloud administrators, cloud engineers and cloud architects are all in high demand, cloud application developers are particularly sought after, as many businesses are keen to adopt cloud-based systems that suit their requirements.

There’s also a growing need for network protection specialists, who ensure that cloud computing systems are safe and can withstand cyber attacks. If you’re interested in this area, you could consider becoming a penetration tester or an ethical hacker.


Penetration testers earn an average of

£0k
a year

Cloud architects earn an average of


£0k
a year

Cloud engineers earn an average of


£0k
a year

Cloud consultants earn an average of

£0k
a year

3. Digital Marketing Skills


Looking for a career that’s competitive, creative and exciting? Then digital marketing could be for you. This fast-paced career involves promoting brands and products via website content, blogs, social media posts, e-newsletters and text campaigns.

Who employs digital marketers?


  • Small businesses
  • Marketing departments
  • Digital agencies
  • Design agencies
  • Advertising agencies

Which digital marketing skills are in demand?


This data-driven industry requires a combination of creative and technical skills, so if you’re an aspiring digital marketer, you’ll need a flair for copywriting and PR as well as the ability to master a range of marketing tools. These include Google AdWords, Mailchimp, Adobe Creative Cloud and Google Analytics.

Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram also play a crucial role in digital marketing, so social media skills are essential, as is the ability to carry out search engine optimisation. Google’s Digital Garage videos are a good starting point for SEO newbies.


Other key skills


Excellent communication skills
Great interpersonal skills
Good eye for detail
Flexibility and willingness to learn
Teamwork
Multitasking and prioritising
Analytical mind
Confidence with Microsoft Office

What qualifications do digital marketers need?


While there are a variety of ways to kickstart your career as a digital marketer, most employers will be impressed by a marketing degree that includes a digital component. However, if you decide to take this route, make sure that your degree is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Degrees in media and communication, business, creative design and journalism are also highly valued by employers.

If you don’t have a degree or your degree is totally unrelated to digital marketing, there are plenty of useful online courses and free resources that will teach you the skills you’re lacking. For example, MailChimp’s website features a handy guide to the basics of using MailChimp for email marketing. Adobe also provides a wide range of creative cloud tutorials for new users.

Once you’ve learned the basics, you’re ready to apply for digital marketing assistant roles, as you’ll then be able to add to your qualifications while you work. However, landing your first job will be easier if you can demonstrate your passion for the industry, so we suggest doing a short stint of work experience if you can.  Placements and internships with digital agencies and brands will always impress, so why not contact a few company marketing departments and digital agencies where you live? Alternatively, you could investigate opportunities to help your local charity with their social media marketing or blog posts. If you’re a graduate, you could also apply for the digital marketing graduate schemes that are run by many large employers.

The high tech world of digital marketing is constantly evolving, so it’s worth taking the time to learn the lingo and keep track of the latest trends. You can do this by subscribing to a few influential blogs. Check out Neil Patel, Econsultancy and the Moz Blog first, then for savvy social media insights, head over to Social Media Examiner or Social Media Today.

What does the role involve?


Digital marketing job descriptions include a wide variety of tasks including blogging, copywriting, PR, email marketing, mobile marketing, social media marketing, pay per click advertising and search engine optimisation. Some roles involve working across several areas, while others involve specialising in a particular niche. For example, there’s currently a huge demand for social media marketers.

If you become a digital marketer you’ll need excellent communication skills, as you’ll be working with your clients to develop a digital marketing strategy. You’ll also be expected to provide reports and analysis to show clients that their investment has been effective.

The average salary of a digital marketer is


£0k
a year

Job hunting is a competitive game, but having the right skill set will give you a much better chance of landing your dream role. Online learning has made it easier than ever to develop the specific skills you need, so why not kickstart your career by checking out our wide range of courses.


Browse Courses

Enjoy this article?

Subscribe now to receive articles like these straight to your inbox
CoursesOnline Contributors

Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration

Related Articles


The Secret to Finding a Job in the UK: Upskilling

The UK is facing one of its toughest periods of unemployment...

wpengine
Jul 9, 2024
Read More

5 ‘Future Proof’ Careers in the UK (Updated)

In this rapidly evolving employment landscape, some of the m...

Claudia Reiners
Jul 11, 2018
Read More

5 of the Best Creative Jobs in London (New Guide)

London is known for its many different types of art, from th...

Claudia Reiners
Jul 11, 2018
Read More

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
  • Popular Subjects
  • Qualification Type
  • How to Become
  • Bookkeeping
  • Computer Science
  • Counselling
  • Hair & Beauty
  • Human Resources
  • IT
  • Payroll
  • Psychology
  • University
  • Supply Chain Management
  • View More
  • Advanced Diploma
  • Bachelors
  • Certificate
  • Diploma
  • Foundation
  • Level 2
  • Level 3
  • Level 4
  • Level 5
  • Level 6
  • Level 7
  • Masters
  • MBA
  • MSc
  • Postgraduate
  • Short
  • Undergraduate
  • A-Level
  • Award
  • University
  • View More
  • How to Begin a Career in IT
  • How to Become a Bookkeeper
  • How to Begin a Career in Trading
  • How to Become a Change Management Consultant
  • How to Become a Cloud Architect
  • How to Become a Construction Health & Safety Officer
  • How to Become a Cryptocurrency Expert
  • How to Become a Forensic Scientist
  • How to Become a Financial Modeller
  • How to Become Java Certified
  • How to Become a Leadership Coach
  • How to Become a Manager
  • How to Become a Mentor
  • How to Become Microsoft Certified
  • How to Become a Psychologist
  • How to Become a Public Health Consultant
  • How to Become a Software Developer
  • How to Become a Software Tester
  • How to Start Your Career in Human Resources
  • How to Become Xero Certified
  • View More

Newsletter sign up

We'll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.
Courses
  • All Courses
  • Online Courses
Education Providers
  • Our Providers
Resources
  • Our Blog
  • How to Become
About us
  • About CoursesOnline
  • FAQs
Contact us
  • Advertise your course
  • Become an Affiliate
Privacy Policy Terms of Use
Certified B Corporation
Tafecourses Facebook Tafecourses LinkedIn Tafecourses Instagram
Certified B Corporation
Copyright © 2025 Coursesonline.co.uk
All Rights Reserved.
Back to Top

Newsletter Sign Up

We’ll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"

Coursesonline.co.uk uses cookies. By continuing you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Learn more.

GDPR - Logo
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookies

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Additional Cookies

This website uses additional cookies to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

Cookie Policy

More information about our Cookie Policy