Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the workplace, driving the need for individuals to embrace new skills and adapt to the evolving job market. According to a recent report by LinkedIn, 43% of Indian workers have experienced increased AI usage in their workplaces over the past year, leading many to recognize that acquiring AI skills can significantly enhance their career prospects. This surge in AI adoption has not only propelled India into the top 5 countries for AI talent increase but has also prompted 2 in 3 Indians to commit to learning at least one digital skill in 2023, with AI and Machine Learning topping their list.
While the demand for AI skills continues to grow, the report highlights the critical role of soft skills, such as creativity and communication, in the age of AI. In fact, 91% of top executives in India acknowledge the increased importance of these skills, surpassing the global average of 72%. Professionals in India echo this sentiment, with 69% believing that soft skills enable them to bring a fresh perspective to their work.
The synergy between AI capability and soft skills is crucial for building a resilient and agile workforce. It is important for businesses to recognize that reskilling existing employees in AI skills is just as vital as hiring new AI talent. The report reveals that 57% of executives in India plan to enhance AI use in their organizations next year, demonstrating the commitment to reskilling and upskilling their workforce to remain competitive in the AI-driven economy.
Ashutosh Gupta, Country Manager at LinkedIn India, emphasizes the need for a skills-first mindset in order to unlock the potential of the nation’s youth. By prioritizing potential over pedigree, organizations can expand their talent pools, foster upskilling initiatives, and build an agile workforce capable of thriving in the future of work. This approach is not only limited to urban centers but extends to individuals living beyond those areas, providing opportunities for meaningful livelihoods across the country.
In this era of automation, it is clear that a combination of AI capability and strong soft skills will be the key to unlocking brighter career prospects. As professionals and businesses embrace this reality, they have the opportunity to shape the future of work and create a world-class workforce that balances the power of AI with the unique abilities of human potential.
FAQ
1. How has AI impacted the job market in India?
In India, the growth in AI hiring has surpassed overall hiring in the Asia Pacific region, highlighting the increasing demand for AI talent. Half of India’s top executives aim to upskill or hire for AI talent in 2023, indicating the continued growth and importance of AI in the job market.
2. Why are soft skills important in the age of AI?
Soft skills, such as creativity and communication, are crucial in complementing AI capability. They enable professionals to bring a fresh perspective to their work and play a vital role in building a resilient and adaptable workforce that can thrive alongside AI technology.
3. How can businesses prepare for the future of work?
Businesses can prepare for the future of work by adopting a skills-first mindset. This involves prioritizing potential over pedigree, reskilling existing employees in AI skills, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. By doing so, organizations can expand their talent pools, boost upskilling initiatives, and build agility within their workforce.