In a recent survey titled ‘Future of the Skills Landscape 2024,‘ 82% of employed individuals express concerns about the potential redundancy of their roles due to advancements in technology. The study, conducted by edtech startup Hero Vired and involving 200,000 students, professionals, and academics, underscores the growing apprehension within India’s workforce regarding job security in the face of evolving technology. This anxiety highlights the imperative for continuous reskilling to adapt to the changing job market.
Navigating the Future Workplace: Insights on Upskilling, AI Influence, and Salary Trends
Despite worries about job displacement, 78% of respondents recognize upskilling as a crucial element for maintaining relevance in the dynamic employment landscape. As technologies reshape various job roles, individuals acknowledge the importance of reskilling to ensure ongoing employability.
The report emphasizes the significant influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on career progression, with 39% of participants noting that AI skills significantly impact promotion opportunities within their current jobs. However, 43% express dissatisfaction with the limited AI training provided by employers, underscoring the gap between the perceived importance of AI skills and the actual support for skill development from companies.
The launch of ChatGPT has brought AI into mainstream discussions about its role in workplaces, with 90% of respondents predicting AI to be the most sought-after capability in the next five years. Notably, 80% believe that AI skills will also command the highest salaries by 2028.
Professionals’ Upskilling Preferences, Soft Skills Emphasis, and Emerging Job Trends: Insights from a Comprehensive Report
The report provides insights into professionals’ preferences regarding upskilling frequency and channels. Approximately 43.5% of individuals aged 18-55 feel the need to upskill every six months. In response to the expanding availability of skill-building resources through edtech, 81% of those who chose to upskill in the past year opted for online courses. Moreover, 83% believe that acquiring AI skills, in particular, would enhance job prospects.
While AI proficiency is expected to lead to salary increases, the report emphasizes the continued importance of soft skills. Workers acquiring hard skills stress the equal significance of non-technical capabilities, such as communication, which set humans apart as automation accelerates. The top three non-technology sector jobs anticipated to be in high demand include digital marketing, green jobs, and mental health coaching.
The report also suggests a growing demand for professionals with expertise in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), corporate governance, and eco-friendly technologies, reflecting an industry emphasis on environmental responsibility. Akshay Munjal, founder and CEO of Hero Vired, comments on the report’s findings, highlighting concerns related to rapid technological advancements and emphasizing the pivotal role of upskilling in addressing these challenges. Munjal notes that upskilling will prepare future leaders to navigate challenges effectively and leverage technology to their advantage.
