Soft skills, continuous learning crucial in an AI-driven economy

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ARTIFICIAL Intelligence (AI) era is reshaping the employment landscape at an unprecedented pace, particularly in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. This is according to a study by LinkedIn Talent Solutions division.

With projections indicating a 68 percent shift in job skills by 2030, businesses and professionals in countries like the Philippines are at a pivotal juncture. This transformation necessitates a strategic approach to workforce development, with an emphasis on both hard and soft skills to thrive in the new AI-driven economy.

The integration of AI into business operations is not just about technological advancements; it’s a catalyst for a broader shift in the skills required for the workforce to remain competitive.

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“In the past year, the narrative was dominated by technological advancements, particularly the integration of AI into business workflows. The resulting surge in demand for AI expertise reflected the challenges many businesses faced in navigating this transformative shift and incorporating cutting-edge technologies into their operations,” Feon Ang, Vice President, LinkedIn Talent Solutions and Managing Director, APAC said.

The top five skills deemed crucial in the APAC region include problem-solving, communication skills, critical thinking, AI proficiency, and IT & web skills. This blend underscores the growing recognition that to leverage AI effectively, professionals must not only master technical skills but also excel in interpersonal and cognitive abilities

In the Philippines, where there’s a strong willingness among professionals to embrace AI, with 70 percent expressing a desire to learn more about it and over half already using generative AI tools in their work. This openness is matched by optimism, with a vast majority believing AI will positively transform their careers. Such attitudes are reflective of a global trend where the potential of AI to augment human capabilities is increasingly acknowledged.

Despite the technical foundation of AI, the importance of soft skills cannot be overstated.

In the APAC region, 88 percent of employers have observed significant shifts in the skills they prioritize, now valuing AI expertise alongside soft skills and learning agility. This is particularly evident in Southeast Asia, where 95 percent of Learning & Development professionals highlight the growing competitiveness of human skills like communication. This shift is attributed to AI tools freeing up time for tasks that require a human touch, such as building relationships and fostering collaboration.

The commitment to skill enhancement is widespread, with 91 percent of companies in APAC focused on preparing their employees for future work challenges through skill development. This has led to an emphasis on creating a learning culture within organizations.

Security Bank for example, has leveraged LinkedIn Learning as a comprehensive platform for employee engagement and skill development, adopting a “learn anytime, anywhere” strategy. Such initiatives reflect a broader recognition that continuous learning and adaptability are essential for both individual and organizational success in an AI-driven world.

A recent survey of APAC leaders found that 48 percent view career progression opportunities as a key priority. This focus on internal mobility, alongside competitive salaries and benefits, is seen as vital for keeping top talent engaged and motivated. Moreover, nearly half of APAC employers believe that highlighting career advancement opportunities is crucial for attracting talent, indicating a strategic pivot towards a skills-centric approach in talent management.

The emphasis on a balanced skill set combining technical prowess with soft skills, the importance of a continuous learning culture, and the strategic focus on internal mobility for talent retention are key takeaways for businesses and professionals worldwide.

For businesses, the imperative is clear: invest in the workforce, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability to navigate the AI era successfully. For professionals, the message is to embrace AI, leveraging it as a tool for career enhancement while continually developing both technical and soft skills.

The integration of AI into the workforce is not just a technological shift but a comprehensive transformation requiring a strategic response from both businesses and individuals. By focusing on skill development, fostering a culture of learning, and embracing the potential of AI, the APAC region is setting a precedent for the future of work. As we move forward, the ability to adapt and grow in this evolving landscape will be the hallmark of success in the AI-driven economy.

“We are now witnessing a pronounced shift towards skills — both technical and soft skills — to thrive in the era of AI. Investing in people’s growth is no longer a perk but a strategic imperative, considering that our workforce is the driving force behind companies’ success in an era shaped by both AI innovation and collaboration with AI,” Ang concludes.

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