Critical Thinking at Work

Critical thinking is one of the most desired traits in new employees, consistently ranking first or second among high-demand skill sets. The need for individuals to use critical thinking to solve problems, identify new solutions, and apply automation and artificial intelligence is essential. Technology can improve job effectiveness and efficiency, but it cannot replace the human ability to process feedback, build relationships, offer recommendations and apply solutions. What’s more, critical thinking is not an inherent skill. It must be learned and practiced. Within the SkillsUSA Framework is the Essential Element of “decision making” under the workplace skills component. Critical thinking is a strategy used for decision making while also incorporating other Essential Elements.