The Economist: are employers ready for AI?

When we talk about AI, robotics and machine learning in the workplace, it’s understood these will all lead to automation. Business leaders across functions are considering how they can leverage technology for greater efficiency and productivity. 
 
Adopting AI and smart technologies, however, doesn’t necessarily mean eliminating jobs. In some cases, technological advancement and adoption will create new jobs. But, most often, it will create opportunities for current employees to gain new skills and become more strategic in their roles. The real challenge is one that faces human capital leaders, who are now preparing for the inevitable future.
 
“It is increasingly important for human capital leaders to plan ahead and determine which jobs may become automated so they can prepare their current workforce for the in-demand jobs of the future,” says Jason Roberts, global head of technology and analytics at the Randstad Sourceright Talent Innovation Center.
 
While Roberts stresses that reskilling current workers will become increasingly important, employers may be missing an opportunity to boost talent attraction if they do not provide the training that will help their employees stay relevant. Companies that invest in reskilling now will be ahead of the curve when it comes to retaining good people in an increasingly tight global labor market.
 
Read more in The Economist, then get your copy of our latest Talent Trends report to see where both talent and human capital leaders see opportunities when it comes to AI at work.