How investing in people creates a future-ready workforce

Global forces, including technological advancements, economic shifts and geopolitical tensions, are reshaping jobs and entire industries. And while 83% of workers plan to stay with their employers, according to The Adecco Group’s Global Workforce of the Future 2024 research, many feel unsupported in upskilling efforts. This can lead to dwindling faith in employers’ commitment to their development.

To thrive in the Intelligent Age – where AI and humans drive innovation together – employers must take a proactive role in preparing their teams. Investing in skills development and career growth not only equips workers to meet current and future challenges, but also strengthens trust and collaboration.

AI is unquestionably one of the most transformative forces shaping the workplace, with nearly 40% of jobs globally influenced by its rise. While AI largely enhances tasks rather than replacing roles, it also creates complexities. Workers feel unprepared, with only 25% receiving AI-specific training, leaving 40% worried about their long-term job security.

Addressing this knowledge gap is crucial. By offering AI-focused training, employers can build trust and equip their workforce to navigate these changes confidently.

Despite the urgent need for new skills, our 2024 research shows employer-led upskilling initiatives have stagnated for the first time in three years. Almost half of workers (48%) believe it is their employer’s responsibility to prepare them for the future of work, while only 20% see it as their own responsibility. Without clear support for skills development, workers risk losing confidence in their long-term prospects.

The solution lies in collaboration. Employers must actively partner with their workforce to build capabilities, offering not just training but also environments that prioritize and encourage growth. Structured strategies like regular skills assessments, personalized career plans and ongoing training create the adaptable, tech-savvy workforce needed for the future.

Our research reveals that just 11% of workers are “future-ready” – excelling in uncertain environments while maximizing emerging opportunities. These high performers often have tailored development plans and participate in leadership training, underscoring the impact of intentional investment in skills growth.

To expand this group, organizations must commit to developing employees at all levels, preparing a new generation of leaders to navigate change. When companies invest in training, they show a tangible commitment to their employees’ futures, fostering a culture of trust and high performance.

Empowering employees to grow alongside technology unlocks human potential that AI cannot replicate. In this context, upskilling is not just a competitive advantage, but a responsibility that will enable workers to maintain their skills currency and employability in this era of technological disruption.

The changing world of work requires people to think outside the box when it comes to career progression. With technology creating new opportunities, and phasing out some current roles, individuals may no longer be able to fall back on the instinctive.

AI-powered tools can help by using real-time market data to help people discover career paths and opportunities they may not have considered otherwise. LHH, our global business unit specializing in professional talent development and careers transition, has developed such a tool. Ezra, LHH’s digital coaching arm, has also created Cai – an AI-powered development assistant that offers employees career development prompts designed to boost motivation, build capability and change behaviour.

AI-powered tools can’t replace a human coach, but they can make self-reflection more meaningful and engaging. This can help learners stay active and prepared before and between sessions with their human coach.

By leveraging the combined power of human career guidance and AI, companies can also democratize digital coaching. In doing so, they can build an adaptable, resilient workforce that’s ready to meet the challenges posed by today’s – and tomorrow’s – megatrends.

The message is clear: Employers who invest in their people will be best positioned for success. Workers are eager for guidance, and businesses have a golden opportunity to lead the way.

Building a collaborative, future-ready workforce can secure organizational success. But it can also create a workplace culture where employees feel supported, valued and prepared for the future.