Nearly two-thirds (64%) of professionals worldwide are feeling overwhelmed by the speed at which the workplace is evolving, according to new research from LinkedIn.
The world’s largest professional network reveals that 68% of workers are seeking more support than ever before, as they face challenges adapting to new ways of working. Almost half (49%) of those surveyed are worried about falling behind as work environments continue to shift rapidly.
One of the biggest challenges professionals are grappling with is the need to prove they can work from home effectively, cited by 30% of respondents. Another key concern is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily tasks, which 27% of workers identified as a hurdle. Managing multi-generational teams was another significant issue for 25% of professionals.
Data from LinkedIn also indicates a growing interest in flexible work arrangements, with mentions of “flexible work” rising by 123% in posts over the last two years. As companies continue to develop their return-to-office (RTO) strategies, this remains a key topic for professionals. Additionally, the number of non-technical professionals taking LinkedIn Learning courses to build AI skills has surged by 117% over the past year, underscoring the importance of AI proficiency across various industries.
Experience Alone No Longer Enough for Career Success
While professional experience remains valuable, 56% of respondents believe it is no longer sufficient to navigate the evolving workplace. Continuous learning is seen as crucial, with 36% stating that ongoing education is essential for career advancement. A further 46% of professionals said they need more guidance on the specific skills required to keep up with workplace changes.
Despite these challenges, only 37% of workers feel they can rely on their managers for support in navigating these transitions. Additionally, just over half (51%) believe their company’s leadership is helping them stay up to date with the rapid changes in the work environment. A third of professionals expressed uncertainty about which sources of information to trust regarding their career development, highlighting the growing need for clarity and direction in today’s complex job market.
LinkedIn’s Recommendations for Managing Change
To help professionals cope with the shifting workplace landscape, LinkedIn offers several strategies for staying ahead:
- Stay informed: With developments in areas like AI and hybrid work moving quickly, it’s important for professionals to keep up with the latest news and insights. LinkedIn suggests following trusted experts, such as its Top Voices, to better understand the impact of these changes and what they may mean for the future of work. Staying current can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
- Adopt a growth mindset: Change can be daunting, but LinkedIn encourages workers to embrace it with an open mind. By developing a willingness to learn, professionals can build the skills necessary to navigate new challenges, such as using AI for everyday tasks. To support this, LinkedIn has made several Learning Courses, including Building an Adaptability Mindset in the Age of AI, available for free until November 2024. The platform is also offering two complimentary professional certificates on Generative AI until the end of 2025.
- Embrace bite-sized learning: LinkedIn advises breaking down learning into manageable pieces, making it easier to stay on top of new developments. Short-form video is an increasingly popular format, with 46% of professionals finding it the most helpful and engaging way to acquire new knowledge. This trend is reflected in the rise of video uploads on LinkedIn, which are up 34% year-over-year.
As the workplace continues to evolve at a rapid pace, professionals are feeling the strain of keeping up. With AI integration, flexible work arrangements, and multi-generational teams becoming key elements of the modern workplace, workers are seeking more support and guidance. Staying informed, adopting a growth mindset, and embracing ongoing learning will be critical for professionals looking to thrive in the future of work.