IrishJobs: 35pc of professionals have enhanced their AI skills

A recent report by IrishJobs reveals that 35 percent of professionals in Ireland have sought to improve their artificial intelligence (AI) skills in response to the rapidly changing job market. The data, collected from over 500 employers and nearly 1,000 professionals, indicates that this push for upskilling is being spurred by the increasing integration of AI tools and technology into workplaces across the country.

The report suggests that the impact of AI on the jobs market is anticipated to unfold over the long term rather than the short term. Christopher Paye, the country director of The Stepstone Group Ireland, commented on the findings, stating that Ireland's hiring landscape is shifting swiftly due to economic and geopolitical volatility, technological advancements, and evolving workforce expectations.

Paye emphasized the growing uncertainty about the effects of AI on future careers, and the proactive measures professionals are taking to enhance their AI skills to adapt to these changes.

Moreover, the report highlights that increased automation in the recruitment process is posing challenges for jobseekers, with nearly two-thirds reporting that it is more difficult to progress to the interview stage, and 65 percent asserting they do not receive any communication from recruiters beyond an automated response. Skills remain a contentious issue, with 78 percent of candidates finding that job advertisements demand more skills than ever before, while 65 percent of employers cite skills matching as their primary hiring challenge.

Salary, work-life balance, flexible working arrangements, and job security are among the most sought-after factors for candidates when considering new opportunities, reflecting the rising inflation and cost of living pressures. The report further reveals that 77 percent of candidates now prioritize job security over career progression when evaluating potential opportunities, leading to 23 percent of employers struggling to meet rising salary expectations.

Paye concluded by emphasizing that employers must adapt their strategies to address these challenges, setting clear expectations, being transparent about pay and flexibility, and investing in skills development to effectively attract and retain top talent.