A Comprehensive Guide to Training

According to a recent report from PeopleScout and Spotted Zebra, about 90% of HR leaders believe that a significant portion of their workforce will require reskilling in the next five years. This widespread demand for AI skills is not limited to a few industries but spans across various sectors. To stay competitive in the evolving job market, organizations must prioritize AI training for their employees.

Teaching Employees to Work with AI

One crucial aspect of reskilling is helping employees learn how to effectively collaborate with AI systems. As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, it is essential to equip employees with the knowledge and skills required to work alongside these intelligent systems. A 2023 Gartner survey found that 79% of functional leaders plan to implement generative AI within the next 12 months. As organizations adopt AI technologies, there is an immediate need for employees to learn new ways of working.

To address any apprehensions surrounding AI, employers must communicate the benefits and opportunities that AI brings to the table. By making employees aware of AI’s capabilities and potential, organizations can help alleviate fears and foster a positive mindset towards this transformative technology.

Upskilling for the AI Era

As AI continues to reshape industries, it is crucial for employers to identify the specific skills needed to adapt to this technological shift. Reskilling efforts should go beyond technical know-how and focus on developing behavioral traits such as adaptability and coachability. According to Steve West, head of global talent acquisition at Verizon, the ability to learn and embrace new ways of working is more important than possessing programming skills. Employers should prioritize upskilling employees based on their ability to learn and adapt to the changing work landscape.

In addition to identifying the skills required for working with AI, organizations must also consider the individual’s perspective. It is essential to emphasize how reskilling will benefit employees personally and professionally. By highlighting the value of upskilling, organizations can motivate employees to embrace AI training as an opportunity for growth and advancement.

The Role of HR in AI Training

HR managers play a crucial role in driving AI training initiatives within organizations. They should take a proactive approach to identify areas where jobs are no longer relevant and create opportunities for redesign. Instead of focusing on jobs that might become obsolete, HR managers should shift their attention to the work that needs to be done and the skills required to accomplish it.

Unfortunately, a recent report by PeopleScout and Spotted Zebra found that only 7% of HR leaders are actively investing in reskilling programs, while 45% have no plans to undertake workforce transformation initiatives. This lack of commitment to reskilling poses a significant risk to organizations, as they may face lost revenue and productivity when critical positions remain unfilled.

To ensure successful reskilling programs, HR managers should collaborate with other departments to develop skills-based talent strategies. By aligning hiring and development practices with future-focused skills, organizations can effectively navigate the AI-driven job market.

Retaining Talent through Reskilling

Actively engaging with employees and providing opportunities for reskilling can significantly impact talent retention. By investing in reskilling programs, organizations demonstrate a commitment to employee development and growth. The PeopleScout and Spotted Zebra report revealed that only 7% of HR leaders reported an active investment in reskilling, highlighting a significant opportunity for organizations to differentiate themselves as employers of choice.

Acknowledging the impending changes and adequately preparing employees for the AI era is also crucial for maintaining trust within the organization. Pretending that these changes are not happening can lead to diminished trust and hinder successful reskilling efforts. Encouraging employees to embrace the opportunities presented by AI and empowering them to make a difference can foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Conclusion

As the demand for AI skills continues to rise, organizations must take proactive steps to ensure their workforce is equipped for the future. Reskilling employees to work alongside AI systems requires effective communication, identifying the right skills, and considering the individual’s perspective. HR managers should play a central role in driving reskilling initiatives and fostering a culture of continuous learning. By investing in AI training and reskilling programs, organizations can retain top talent and thrive in the AI-powered economy.