AI-savvy Gen-Z workers likely to outpace older generations at workplace: Study
New DelhiEdited By: Mukul SharmaUpdated: Jun 22, 2024, 04:52 PM IST

The LinkedIn study shows a significant shift in hiring practices Photograph:(WION)
Story highlights
Younger candidates, such as the Gen-Z, who possess AI knowledge are likely to gain an advantage over their more experienced peers.
The meteoric rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken over workplaces across the world looking to automate their functions in a potential threat to human jobs. Although a complete takeover of jobs by AI seems unlikely in the near future, a more immediate concern has emerged: individuals leveraging AI to outcompete others in the job market.
Recent research from Microsoft and LinkedIn revealed that those without AI skills risk falling behind in career opportunities compared to those who have embraced AI.
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The study, which surveyed over 30,000 people across 31 countries, shows a significant shift in hiring practices. Nearly 70 per cent of business leaders now prioritise AI proficiency over traditional experience when making hiring decisions, favouring candidates with AI knowledge over more seasoned professionals lacking such skills.
Aneesh Raman, LinkedIn’s Vice President and workforce expert, told CNBC: “Learning basic AI skills — such as prompt engineering, machine learning, or data literacy — is the best insurance to shortcut your competitiveness against people who might have more experience.”
What does it mean?
Younger candidates, such as the Gen-Z, who possess AI knowledge are likely to gain an advantage over their more experienced peers.
Gen Z, known for their digital savviness, is more likely to integrate AI tools at work compared to older generations like millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers.
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https://www.wionews.com/videos/75-employees-already-using-ai-at-work-report-719593/embed
The study further found that 77 per cent of leaders are more likely to assign significant responsibilities to early-career professionals with AI expertise.
Where all AI has started showing off its effect?
According to the report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, the use of generative AI tools in workplaces has doubled over the past six months. This trend extends beyond tech roles to fields such as architecture, project management, and administration, where professionals are increasingly seeking to build their AI skills.
Even traditionally non-tech industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing are rapidly integrating AI technologies to improve operations and productivity. This swift adoption is driving demand for AI-proficient professionals and creating new job opportunities.
Some tech giants, including Google and Amazon, are investing in training their workforce in AI skills. But only a quarter of companies surveyed by Microsoft and LinkedIn plan to provide training on generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Mukul Sharma
Mukul Sharma is a New Delhi-based multimedia journalist covering geopolitical developments in and beyond the Indian subcontinent. Deeply interested in the affairs related to contested peace in Afghanistan and Pakistani establishment, he can be found cycling or running more than a few miles in New Delhi on less busy mornings, or reading some correspondent’s reflections of a place they reported from. He posts on X @mukuljrsharma