Gi Group, a prominent HR and recruitment specialist in the UK, delves into the evolving world of workforce in the post-pandemic era, marked by the rise of AI and changing job dynamics.

As traditional roles undergo transformations and new opportunities emerge, Gi Group shares its expertise on how businesses can prepare for the future, where skills play a central role.

The Future of Jobs Report 2023 indicates a projected structural churn of 23 percent in the labour market over the next five years. This includes the addition of new roles and the decline of existing ones, resulting in an overall 5 percent  decrease in current employment. AI, expected to be adopted by 75 percent of surveyed companies, is identified as a key factor influencing this job market shift.

Skills-Based Hiring on the Rise

Lewis Hanrahan, Business Manager at Gi Group in Nottingham, highlights the ongoing shift towards skill-based hiring, where employers focus on skills and aptitude rather than traditional experience and qualifications. He predicts this trend will continue, introducing more jobs to the market and reshaping career paths.

While the integration of AI raises concerns among candidates about job replacement, Gi Group acknowledges the need for a paradigm shift in thinking. Drawing parallels with the past introduction of computers and the internet in the workplace, Lewis additionally emphasizes the importance of training and education to eliminate fears surrounding AI and equip the workforce with the necessary skills.

The Changing Skills Landscape and the Role of HR

As AI’s presence grows, the skills required for jobs will change significantly by 2020. A potential skills gap looms, prompting HR leaders to focus on understanding the current skills of their workforce and identifying areas for upskilling. Analytical and creative thinking, along with data analysis skills, will also become crucial, placing responsibility on managers to provide access to relevant training opportunities.

Gi Group envisions HR leaders focusing on in-depth skill assessments and targeted upskilling initiatives to navigate the evolving workplace. The strategic emphasis on skills will be a significant component of HR plans for 2024 and beyond.