Many companies don’t help their employees master AI
Despite the clear productivity benefits of using AI tools in the workplace, a LinkedIn survey found that less than half (44%) of UK companies are actively helping their employees with AI literacy.
LinkedIn’s findings underline the growing need for companies to prioritize skills development, with desirable and required skills set to shift by 51% between 2016 and 2030, thanks to the rise of generative AI.
Furthermore, seven in ten managers expect the skills gap to widen over the next five years, highlighting the urgency of upskilling opportunities.
AI further training
Despite the apparent lack of current AI support, the report shows that many UK professionals are keen to improve their skills, with around two-thirds (65%) believing AI skills will contribute to career development.
LinkedIn is keen to jump on the bandwagon and hopes that by launching new AI learning courses, career development features and insights it can help close the widening skills gap.
LinkedIn VP and UK Country Manager Janine Chamberlin emphasized the need for a proactive approach: “Businesses cannot afford to be slow to upskill if they want to seize the opportunities that AI offers and succeed in an ever-changing working world.”
Chamberlin highlighted some of the reasons why companies may want to spend money on their training efforts: “Upskilling employees in hard and soft skills will not only help companies become more agile, but also improve retention and make it easier for people to acquire new jobs. career within the organization.”
As part of the announcement, LinkedIn will offer 250 free courses worldwide through April 5, covering a variety of AI-related topics.
The social networking platform has also unveiled adjustments that will allow candidates to find internal recruitment opportunities to showcase and take advantage of their new skills.