Businesses are ready to put AI to work in full force, but nearly all companies are having to slow down their approach because (among other reasons) most employees are not knowledgeable enough about how to employ the tech to use it responsibly. New research from learning management system training firm TalentLMS sheds light on the skills managers should be sharpening among their teams, and the key challenges faced by companies in the AI era.
The firm’s survey of HR managers across industries found that 64 percent acknowledged that the rise of AI is transforming the landscape of in-demand skills, with 65 percent of respondents believing digital skills, interpersonal skills, and cognitive skills will be crucial for success in the AI era. According to respondents, the top three in-demand cognitive skills in the AI era are: problem-solving; creativity, originality and imagination; and ability to learn.
One significant concern identified is the AI skills gap that companies anticipate
Forty-three percent of HR managers estimated that their organization will face a skills gap as a result of AI. Recognizing the urgency to bridge this gap, a majority of HR managers (58 percent) will use upskilling and reskilling initiatives, along with investing in AI training tools (58 percent).
“Embracing AI in our learning and development initiatives is crucial for building organizational resilience,” said Thanos Papangelis, co-founder of TalentLMS and CEO at Epignosis, in a news release. “It empowers individuals to adapt, innovate, and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape, ensuring future success.” Furthermore, 41 percent of HR managers intend to hire new employees to overcome the skills gap caused by AI, among other proactive measures.
How AI is affecting employee wellness
The survey also unveiled the impact of AI on employee well-being. Fifty-six percent of HR managers agreed that the AI-driven necessity to develop new skills is contributing to increased employee stress. Moreover, 58 percent expressed concern that AI is fueling job insecurity among employees, while the same percentage believed that older generations might feel less confident at work, compared to their younger colleagues.
How HR managers are adapting to the changing workplace
In light of AI adoption in the workplace, the survey revealed that 85 percent of HR managers plan to invest in learning and development (L&D) initiatives to train employees on AI. Upskilling (63 percent) and reskilling (62 percent) emerged as critical focus areas for HR managers, while 54 percent emphasized the importance of allocating a budget for AI training.
When it comes to transitioning to an AI-driven future, 45 percent of HR managers stressed the necessity for companies to establish a clear AI policy—guidelines on how to ethically and appropriately leverage AI in the workplace. Additionally, 41 percent of HR managers believe that organizations should prepare for a blended workforce, comprising both employees and AI, to maximize the benefits of AI implementation.
