Firms tweak recruitment process as AI adoption goes up

A human resources expert has commented on the downward trend in recent manpower projections, attributing it to the effectiveness of the government's talent schemes and changes in employers' recruitment approaches. The Labour and Welfare Bureau now predicts a shortfall of 130,000 workers by 2028, a significant decrease from the previously estimated 180,000.

Roy Ying, co-chair of the advocacy and policy research committee at the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resource Management, views this as positive news. He observes that the initial forecast, conducted two years ago, was made during a "revenge hiring mode" following the pandemic, but employers' mindset has since become more pragmatic.

They now seek candidates with greater experience and the ability to add value to the organization. Ying emphasizes that for university students, gaining experience is crucial in the face of a decline in entry-level jobs due to the increasing adoption of AI. He notes that while a degree or diploma serves as an entry ticket, it is not enough.

To truly add value, students must learn how to contribute to an organization, which can be achieved through internships or entrepreneurship. Ying expects the number of double-degree holders to surge temporarily, as AI is more of a skill than a degree. He also anticipates that AI will be integrated into all curricula soon.