Learning to learn: a key skill for the future of work 

For many professionals, it seems as though there’s more to learn and less time to do it. The rise of GenAI, new ways of working, and rapidly changing business needs, mean that the skills needed for the future are constantly shifting. 

Being able to acquire new skills is the key to staying competitive and keeping your career moving, and is cited by 45% of professionals as a top soft skill in our 2025 Salary & Recruitment Trends Guide. You might be asking one question though: how exactly do you learn to learn? 

We’ve explored key methods for improving your learning capacity, helping you to enhance your professional development and future-proof your career. 

Why we all need to up our learning game 

The ability to learn effectively is more crucial than ever. Skills requirements are undergoing a constant evolution, with LinkedIn’s Future of Skills data showing that skills in Ireland changed by an average of 37% between 2015 and 2022, higher than the global average of 24%. Moreover, it’s predicted that the Irish skills market could change by 47% this year. 

But what’s driving this trend? Emerging technology is a major catalyst, with the likes of AI and robotics taking with one hand while giving with the other, removing the need for some technical proficiencies while also fuelling the need for broader core skills. Moreover, wider global factors such as economic uncertainty and a transition to green business models, have increased demand for adaptable professionals who can learn on the job.  

While it isn't possible to predict the exact future skills you’ll need to flourish in your career, the ability to learn stands out as a safe bet.  

Understanding the learning process 

Learning isn’t just about absorbing information; it's about understanding and applying knowledge in practical ways, and tailoring strategies around your unique mindset. Here are five key methods you can take to study smarter, not harder. 

1. Discover your learning style 

We all think differently, and there’s no single route to becoming a better learner. While one person may be a visual learner who benefits from images and mind maps, another may take more onboard from audio cues, such as by listening to podcasts and recordings. Try experimenting with different learning styles and leverage whichever one you find to be the most effective.  

2. Practice metacognition 

By simply reading this article, it’s likely that you’re already taking this step! Metacognition is about reflecting on your learning process, thinking about how you learn and identifying strategies that work best for you. This self-awareness can help you adjust your approach and improve your learning efficiency over time. 

3. Ask questions 

Not everything is certain – including this article – and questioning information is a powerful way to engage with a topic while deepening your knowledge and understanding. Whether you’re taking an online course, attending a seminar, or listening to a podcast by yourself, don’t be afraid to ask “the why” and challenge yourself to think more critically. 

4. Break it up 

Instead of cramming information, spread your learning over a scheduled period of time. This technique, sometimes known as spaced repetition, could reinforce memory and improve long-term retention. Equally, try breaking down complex material into smaller, more manageable chunks, which makes it easier to process and remember information. For example, if learning to code, you might start by mastering the basics and writing simple functions, rather than trying to learn multiple languages and complex algorithms simultaneously. 

5. Teach others 

Passing on your newfound knowledge to friends, family members and colleagues is an excellent way of embedding what you have learned. Explaining information to others, and in a way that’s accessible to them, will force you to explore a topic from a different perspective and test your own understanding. And who knows – in time, you might just become a subject expert that everybody comes to! 

There’s no conclusion to learning… 

The ability to learn is an essential skill for professional development in today's dynamic job market – but it’s part of an ongoing journey. By thinking deeper about the way you learn, adopting effective strategies, and leveraging free resources like Hays' My Learning platform, you can continue to enhance your existing knowledge and build new areas of expertise.  

Looking to embrace the journey of lifelong learning and unlock your full potential? Visit our Career Hub for all the tips, tools and insights you need to develop your learning and reach your career goals.