By 2030, it is projected that 70% of the skills required for most jobs will change, with AI playing a central role in this transformation. According to LinkedIn’s latest Work Change report, this rapid evolution underscores the growing need for professionals to develop in-demand skills that will enable them to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world. The report highlights a major shift in the workforce, with professionals entering the job market today expected to hold twice as many jobs during their careers compared to those just 15 years ago. This evolving job landscape emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning to stay relevant.
To guide professionals in adapting to these changes, LinkedIn has published its annual “Skills on the Rise” ranking, which identifies the fastest-growing skills in demand across industries. These skills are not only shaping the future of work but are also offering a roadmap for those looking to future-proof their careers. The ranking provides valuable insights into the skills that companies are hiring for, as well as the skills that savvy professionals are actively adding to their profiles.
Among the top in-demand skills identified by LinkedIn’s analysis are AI literacy, conflict mitigation, adaptability, process optimization, innovative thinking, and public speaking. The list reflects a blend of both technical and human skills, underlining the importance of a balanced approach in the evolving job market. While AI and technical capabilities are increasingly essential, human qualities such as communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence continue to be irreplaceable in the workplace.
AI skills, in particular, have seen a tremendous surge in demand. LinkedIn’s data reveals a 20-fold increase in the number of users adding AI-related skills to their profiles since 2016, with significant growth in industries such as financial services and education. Even sectors traditionally slower to adopt AI are recognizing its value, and AI literacy is quickly becoming a non-negotiable skill across job roles. Professionals with AI expertise are positioning themselves for substantial career advancement opportunities, as businesses prioritize these skills to remain competitive in the digital era.
For organizations, embracing these in-demand skills is not just beneficial for individual career growth but also for driving business success. According to LinkedIn’s research, 51% of companies that have adopted generative AI have reported a revenue increase of at least 10% in the past two years. However, a significant skills gap remains, with 62% of hiring managers in the U.S. noting a mismatch between the skills available in the workforce and the skills companies require. This skills gap presents both a challenge and an opportunity for businesses to invest in skill development, ensuring they have access to the talent they need to succeed in a rapidly changing environment.
The traditional hiring model, which has historically emphasized degrees and years of experience, is increasingly being replaced by a focus on skills-based hiring. This shift reflects the changing nature of work, where what matters most is a candidate’s ability to perform the tasks required for a job rather than their academic background. Skills-based hiring is especially valuable in a job market where workers can expect a significant portion of their skills to become outdated within the next decade. This change is supported by research from the Brookings Institution, which highlights the need for a new approach to talent recognition and matching.
To stay ahead of the curve, professionals must focus on developing the in-demand skills that will define the future of work. First and foremost, AI literacy should be a priority. Understanding how AI tools function and how they can enhance productivity is crucial, even for those in non-technical roles. Additionally, human skills such as adaptability, conflict mitigation, and communication remain essential, as these are what set professionals apart in an AI-driven environment. Broadening one’s skill set by continually adding new capabilities to a profile is also important, as LinkedIn’s data shows a 40% increase in the number of skills professionals are adding to their profiles compared to previous years.
Leveraging AI-powered tools can also help professionals in their skills development journey. LinkedIn’s AI-powered coaching feature offers personalized feedback and actionable insights to help individuals improve their interpersonal skills. By using such tools, professionals can sharpen their abilities and demonstrate their growth to potential employers. Finally, keeping an up-to-date profile that clearly showcases newly acquired skills and experiences is essential in today’s competitive job market. Many professionals remain uncertain about how to effectively highlight their skills during job searches, but regularly updating and emphasizing these capabilities can boost employability and open doors to new opportunities.
As Karin Kimbrough, Chief Economist at LinkedIn, aptly puts it, “To successfully navigate the ongoing shifts at work, especially those brought on by AI, organizations, leaders, and individuals must adopt a mindset that embraces change and prioritizes continuous learning, skill development, and human-centric approaches.” By focusing on the development of in-demand skills, professionals can position themselves for success in both current and future job markets. In an era where change is constant, the ability to adapt and grow one’s skill set will be one of the most valuable assets anyone can possess.
