A recent report by LinkedIn indicates that a significant 94% of Indian companies aim to boost their employees’ skills and capabilities this year. This initiative stems from the ongoing transformations brought about by AI in the workforce.

The report highlights that upskilling employees, aligning learning programs with business objectives, and fostering a culture of learning are the primary focus areas for Learning & Development (L&D) professionals in India.

As the demands of the job market evolve due to AI and automation, 98% of Indian employers are witnessing substantial shifts in the skills they seek in job candidates. Beyond technical expertise, companies now value soft skills and the ability to adapt and learn.

Ruchee Anand, Senior Director of Talent, Learning, and Engagement Solutions at LinkedIn India, emphasizes the growing importance of skills in the AI era. With global job requirements projected to change by 68% by 2030, a balanced mix of technical and soft skills becomes crucial for organizational success.

The report also underscores the rising significance of human skills in India’s economy, with ‘communication’ topping the list of most in-demand skills across the Asia-Pacific region. Soft skills like critical thinking and problem-solving are also deemed essential by hiring managers.

To empower their workforce, Indian companies are investing in online training programs (53%) and providing opportunities for hands-on learning with AI tools (54%). These efforts aim to bolster employee confidence and job security amidst evolving job landscapes.