Human Skills Trump AI in Workforce Demand, Says Report

A recent report from Cornerstone OnDemand highlights a significant trend in the job market: while job postings related to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are on the rise, there is an even greater demand for 'human skills' such as leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence across various regions. This analysis is based on data collected by SkyHive, which encompasses job postings, resumes, government data, and other relevant points from over 200 countries and territories, available in 11 languages.

The report notes a remarkable 411% increase in job postings related to generative AI following the launch of ChatGPT in early 2023. Despite this surge, such positions only accounted for 0.3% of global job listings at their peak in 2024. These AI‑related roles are primarily concentrated in software development and IT services. In contrast, job postings requiring human or soft skills, especially in communication, interpersonal collaboration, and problem‑solving, are significantly higher in demand.

In North America, the demand for human skills is 2.4 times greater than for digital skills, while in Europe, this ratio rises to 2.9 times. This disparity highlights the critical importance of soft skills in today's job market, even as technical skills become increasingly relevant. Bledi Taska, head of analytics at SkyHive, pointed out that although there's an exponential rise in demand for generative AI skills, historical trends suggest that this demand may stabilize as these technologies become more integrated into daily operations.

The ongoing importance of upskilling in both AI and human skills is consistently underscored by reports. A 2023 Salary.com survey revealed that a majority of HR respondents are focusing on enhancing soft skills like communication and problem‑solving in their organizations. This focus underscores the necessity for a balanced skill set that includes both technical and human competencies in the evolving job market.

Mike Bollinger, global VP of strategic initiatives at Cornerstone, emphasized the workforce readiness gap revealed by the report and stressed the importance of retaining critical human skills within organizations. As AI continues to evolve and permeate various sectors, the value of human skills remains indispensable. This report serves as a crucial reminder for businesses to prioritize and cultivate these soft skills alongside technical expertise.