The workplace is undergoing a significant transformation, with employees increasingly seeking to enhance their skills in areas like AI, IT, and leadership. A recent report from Udemy highlights the growing demand for learning opportunities in both technological fields and soft skills, which are less likely to be replicated by AI, such as active listening. This trend reflects a broader shift in the workforce, where both technological proficiency and leadership capabilities are becoming essential.
Greg Brown, president and CEO of Udemy, emphasized that the developments in generative AI, hybrid work, and the creation of inclusive global workplaces, combined with macroeconomic uncertainty, are driving the consistent need for upskilling. The Udemy Q4 Workplace Learning Index shows a notable interest in developing skills related to chatbot development and active listening, underscoring the dual focus on tech and soft skills.
Data from nearly 16,000 Udemy Business customers worldwide indicates a surge in demand for generative AI skills, with particular growth in LangChain and chatbot development skills. This suggests a shift from simply understanding generative AI to applying it in practical work settings. By the end of 2023, Udemy reported that 3.2 million learners had enrolled in over 1,700 generative AI courses, with ChatGPT emerging as the fastest-growing skill of the year.
In addition to technical skills, there’s a clear interest in enhancing soft skills. Course enrollments in active listening, customer service, and work-life balance have seen significant growth, indicating a desire among workers to improve their interpersonal and self-management abilities.
The demand for AI skills is not only evident in the enthusiasm of learners but also in the hiring priorities of employers. An Amazon Web Services survey revealed that 73% of employers consider hiring workers with AI skills a priority, yet they face challenges in finding qualified candidates. This skills gap has led to calls for more comprehensive training programs. According to a Salesforce report, while workers are optimistic about the use of generative AI in the workplace, many feel unprepared to use these tools effectively and safely without additional training.
Learning and development initiatives are seen as crucial for addressing skill threat concerns, particularly among software developers. Training programs can also play a key role in mitigating equity issues and fears of obsolescence due to AI advancements, as highlighted in a Pluralsight report. As the workplace continues to evolve, the importance of balancing technical expertise with soft skills and providing targeted training opportunities will remain central to workforce development.
