Forget AI: most UK companies only want to hire basic IT skills
Despite continued interest in artificial intelligence technologies embedded in work environments, UK companies are still prioritizing hiring employees with basic technical skills.
New research from Indeed shows that only 2.6% of job vacancies in the UK mention AI skills, with basic skills such as Microsoft Office and generic IT expertise being discussed more often.
According to the report, the most common technical skills sought by UK employers include general IT skills (10%), Microsoft Office (6%) and Microsoft Excel (5%). Furthermore, demand for basic IT skills has remained fairly consistent over the past five years, both in the UK and in other markets such as the US.
UK businesses need basic IT skills more than AI
In addition to technical skills, Indeed found that UK employers also prioritize people skills such as communication (30%), leadership (9%) and organization (7%).
Additionally, Indeed’s research into the current state of the UK labor market addresses ongoing concerns that AI could replace human workers. The analysis of more than 2,800 job skills shows that it is ‘very unlikely’ or ‘unlikely’ that two-thirds (68.7%) will be replaced by generative AI.
“While AI and other advanced technologies will likely shape the future job market, the current reality is that many employers are simply looking for workers with basic computer skills,” said Indeed senior economist Jack Kennedy.
“While AI may ultimately require broad upskilling of the workforce to embrace advanced technologies, a more pressing concern remains around closing the gaps in basic digital skills and enabling everyone to fully engage in work in the digital age.”
This is despite British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s ambitions to make Britain a global AI hub.
Despite the Prime Minister’s efforts, the current labor market suggests that companies are not yet aligned with the vision, with employers still looking for fundamental technical skills and human competencies.