Salesforce’s investment in Data Cloud is more than an upgrade – it’s a strategic move that’s setting the stage for a future bet in the growth of their business. With the integration of AI, Data Cloud is enabling businesses to harness real-time data in ways that were previously unimaginable.
But why is Salesforce making such a significant push in this direction, and what does it mean for professionals looking to advance their careers?
Data Cloud and AI: The Future of CRM
Data Cloud represents a major leap forward in how companies manage and analyze customer data. Processing vast amounts of information in real time, it offers businesses deep insights into customer behaviors and preferences. However, it’s the combination with AI that truly transforms this data into actionable strategies.
Salesforce reported that its Data Cloud segment grew 90% year-over-year, approaching $400 million in revenue. Chief Operating Officer Brian Millham noted that this growth is “an indicator of the demand that we’re seeing for people to get ready for the AI transformation.” The message is clear: businesses are increasingly turning to data and AI to stay competitive, and professionals with these skills will be in high demand as that growth comes to fruition.
Why Data Cloud and AI Skills Are Crucial for Salesforce Professionals
For those working within the Salesforce ecosystem, mastering Data Cloud and AI is no longer optional – it’s essential. These skills are quickly becoming key differentiators, separating those who can lead in this new digital landscape from those who may struggle to keep up.
“The concept of one single master record doesn’t really exist in enterprise … Salesforce has recognized that Data Cloud needs the ability to communicate with external systems and external data lakes.”
Mo Jassatt, Senior Director at Cognizant
This highlights the importance of developing a strong understanding of Data Cloud, especially in its ability to integrate with other systems. This expertise will be crucial for anyone aiming to advance in the Salesforce ecosystem.
Salesforce Data Cloud is not just a powerful tool for integration; it’s a game-changer for enterprises managing complex, multi-system environments. By unifying disparate data sources, Data Cloud enables organizations to streamline operations and maintain a consistent flow of information across departments and platforms.
For large enterprises, this means integrating data from various regional databases into a single, cohesive system that provides a comprehensive view of customer interactions. This capability is crucial for making informed, data-driven decisions, enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly complex business landscape.
Emphasizing Data Analysis and Data Modeling Skills
The successful deployment of Salesforce Data Cloud isn’t just about understanding the platform – it’s about mastering the core data modeling skills that bring all these pieces of data together. The ability to aggregate, rationalize, and make sense of data from multiple sources is essential. This is where strong data modeling and analytics skills come into play. These skills allow professionals to design robust systems that can handle the complexity of integrating various data sources into a unified platform.
“We’re starting to see there’s a lot more cross-pollination between the practices as well. The Salesforce practice is working very closely with the analytics practice. For example, how do you render this valuable data to the end user? We’re seeing a lot of blurred lines and a lot of cross-pollination going on.”
Mo Jassatt, Senior Director at Cognizant
The Strategic Importance of Data Cloud and AI
Salesforce’s focus on Data Cloud and AI reflects a broader shift towards data-driven decision-making across industries. Businesses are increasingly relying on real-time data to shape their strategies, and the ability to interpret this data accurately has become a critical competitive advantage.
Consider the example of Air India, a company cited by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff as a leader in leveraging these technologies. Air India uses Data Cloud to unify its operations across various systems, from loyalty programs to flight systems. With AI, they’ve streamlined customer service, managing over 550,000 service cases each month with enhanced efficiency. AI-driven solutions classify and summarize cases automatically, ensuring they’re directed to the right agents with recommended actions. This leads to better customer experiences and more efficient operations.
But these successes don’t happen by accident. Proper planning and design are crucial to fully realizing the potential of Data Cloud. Without a well-thought-out strategy, the complexity of data management can become overwhelming, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.
“Data Cloud will punish you if you don’t do all the planning correctly … This really is about proper design upfront, planning upfront, and architecture upfront, before you start building.”
Ian Gotts, CEO of Elements.Cloud
His insights underscore the critical need for Salesforce professionals to not only understand how to use Data Cloud but also to master the strategic planning and architectural skills that ensure its effective implementation.
Developing the Right Skills: A Must for Salesforce Professionals
So, what does this mean for your career? It means that acquiring Data Cloud and AI skills is critical. As the Salesforce ecosystem evolves, these technologies are becoming central to how businesses operate. Understanding and mastering them will not only enhance your current role but will also position you for future opportunities.
Portfolio Pieces and Certifications: The Key to Standing Out
Certifications are a valuable way to signal interest and expertise to potential employers. Programs like the Salesforce Einstein Analytics and Discovery Consultant certification validate your knowledge and commitment to staying current in a rapidly changing industry. However, it’s not just about earning certifications – it’s about applying what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.
Building a portfolio that showcases your work with Data Cloud and AI can set you apart. Whether through internships, volunteer projects, or personal initiatives, these tangible examples of your skills will be crucial in a competitive job market.
The Essential Role of Core Consulting and 21st-Century Skills
While technical expertise in Data Cloud and AI is vital, it’s important you don’t overlook core consulting and 21st-century skills such as teamwork, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. These skills are equally crucial for those starting their careers and those looking to advance.
Teamwork and Collaboration
In today’s interconnected work environment, the ability to collaborate effectively is more important than ever. Whether you’re working within a team of developers, engaging with business stakeholders, or interacting with clients, strong collaboration skills are essential.
Communication Skills
Clear communication is a cornerstone of effective consulting. Whether you’re simplifying complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences or presenting data-driven strategies to executives, your ability to communicate effectively can significantly impact your success. As Data Cloud and AI become more integrated into Salesforce, the ability to articulate these technologies’ benefits and uses will be increasingly valuable.
Critical Thinking
As AI takes over routine tasks, critical thinking will become a key differentiator. The ability to analyze data, recognize patterns, and draw actionable conclusions will make you invaluable in any organization. Businesses will increasingly rely on professionals who can interpret data and make informed strategic decisions.
Future-Proofing Your Career: Lessons from the Past, Actions for Today
The Salesforce ecosystem has seen rapid growth and evolution. For instance, Salesforce has doubled its employee base in just six years, reflecting the increasing demand for professionals with relevant skills. In 2020 and 2021, it seemed like anyone with an admin certification could land a job due to the intense demand for professionals. Now, the market for Salesforce Admin Certification professionals is saturated as supply has surpassed the demand.
Why Future-Proofing Matters
In a fast-paced industry, the skills that are valuable today might not be as relevant tomorrow. By developing expertise in Data Cloud and AI now, you’re not just keeping up – you’re staying ahead. The Salesforce economy is projected to create over 11 million new jobs between 2022 and 2028, driven largely by AI-powered solutions. This includes 4.7 million direct jobs and an additional 7 million indirect roles, showcasing the broad impact of these technologies across various sectors.
However, it’s important to remember that technical skills are just one part of the equation. A balanced skill set that includes technical expertise, core consulting skills, and 21st-century competencies will be essential to thriving in the Salesforce ecosystem.
A Proactive Approach to Career Development
To succeed, adopt a proactive learning mindset. Engage with online courses, attend webinars, and pursue certification programs focused on Data Cloud and AI. Networking with professionals who are already excelling in these areas can also provide valuable insights and mentorship.
At the same time, continue to develop your core consulting skills. Participate in collaborative projects, seek out opportunities to present your ideas, and refine your critical thinking abilities. The most successful professionals will be those who can combine technical knowledge with strong interpersonal and analytical skills.
Summary
Salesforce’s investment in Data Cloud and AI is more than just a trend – it’s a clear signal of where the industry is headed. For professionals, this presents an opportunity to lead the way in this transformation. By developing the right skills, earning relevant certifications, and building a portfolio that demonstrates your expertise, you’re not just preparing for the future – you’re shaping it.
But remember, success in the Salesforce ecosystem requires more than just technical know-how. A well-rounded skill set that includes teamwork, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking will ensure you remain competitive and adaptable in an ever-changing industry.
The lessons from the past have shown that those who embrace change and invest in their growth are the ones who succeed. The question is, are you ready to be one of them?
We’re Here to Help You at Clicked
To help you develop these essential skills and future-proof your career, at Clicked we have crafted a custom four-month-long program in partnership with Salesforce and IBM SkillsBuild. This program is designed to equip you with the relevant skills needed to launch and thrive in your Salesforce career.
And for more information on this topic, watch the discussion I had with Ben McCarthy, Ian Gotts, and Mo Jassatt: