“As the U.S. economy begins to show signs of improvement, executives say they need a workforce fully equipped with skills beyond just the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic (the three Rs) in order to grow their businesses. Skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, communication, collaboration, and creativity and innovation (the four Cs) will become even more important to organizations in the future, according to a new survey conducted by American Management Association (AMA).

Proficiency in reading, writing and arithmetic has traditionally been the entry-level threshold to the job market, but the new workplace requires more from its employees. Employees need to think critically, solve problems, innovate, collaborate, and communicate more effectively—and at every level within an organization. According to the AMA 2010 Critical Skills Survey, many executives admit there is room for improvement among their employees in these skills and competencies.

“AMA’s survey shows that an overwhelming number of respondents believe that these 21st century skills are important to their organizations today and will become even more important in the future,” said Edward T. Reilly, AMA president and CEO. “Many executives feel that their current workforce is not as well developed in these areas as they need to be. As such, management will need to address these skill gaps in order to compete in a global market,” Reilly said.

“Locus ad Sol” by Taylor Burnes

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When asked why they believe these skills and competencies are taking on critical importance in the business environment, 91% rated the pace of change in business today as the leading cause, followed by global competitiveness (86.5%), the nature of how work is accomplished today (77.5%), and the way organizations are structured (66.3%).