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Meet the demands of change by upskilling and reskilling the workforce.

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To meet ever-changing technological, global, and workforce demands, successful companies are turning to reskilling and upskilling.

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Meeting Tomorrow’s Skills Demands Today

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The Latest

Just a couple years ago, companies were conducting hiring sprees, scooping up a seemingly unlimited supply of talent. Today, however, more talent professionals are asked to do more with less, while facing intense competition for individuals with the most business-critical skills. But this reset has given rise to a new way of thinking about talent—the skills-based transformation, in which candidates are hired, and internal talent developed, based on their unique skills and strengths.To make the skills-based transition successful, companies must ensure their talent acquisition (TA) and learning and development (L&D) teams work more closely together. This will be especially important since talent with key skills is harder to find than ever. According to Randstad Enterprise’s latest in-demand skills research, global hiring complexity for AI and automation skills is two times higher than average, while data analytics skills are 2.3 times higher.In this landscape, rather than always turning to recruiting external talent, consider how individuals with key skills—or at least the potential to learn them—may already be in the organization. But without insights and development plans from L&D, those high-potential employees, and their skill sets, may remain hidden. Along the same lines, when new talent is brought in, L&D should be involved as well, helping to ensure they continually learn and grow to develop the skills needed for the future.But for TA and L&D to collaborate most effectively, they must leverage the right data to help guide their decisions. With access to up-to-date talent intelligence—about the supply of skills both within your organization and outside it—TA and L&D teams gain the insights to better work together and ultimately ensure the company acquires the right skills.Identify the skills you need.Due to the growing use of AI, the skills companies need are changing constantly. With access to the right talent intelligence, companies can better predict the skills that will be most critical for their organizations today and into the future. And if talent with those skills is too difficult to find internally or externally, the data can help identify talent with the adjacent or transferable skills most indicative of success in attaining those needed skills. Once those skills are identified, TA and L&D can work together to determine the best way to acquire those skills, whether hiring externally or developing internal—or even external—talent.Build a skilled and diverse workforce.As part of the skills-based transformation, many organizations leverage talent intelligence to conduct skills mapping or create skills ontologies to better understand the skills already in the organization. Such insights can also reveal the individuals who show strong potential to learn the new skills that TA may be struggling to find externally. This approach is also helpful for enhancing workforce diversity and creating equity. With female talent largely under-represented in some of the most in-demand skills, like AI and automation, providing promising female employees with the right training and development can improve diversity while ensuring the company gains those needed skills.Understand the external talent market.Strong talent intelligence can help you find the best sources for the skills your organization needs. It can also uncover essential data about what those individuals are looking for in their next role, like salary expectations and desire to work remotely, so TA can be better positioned to attract and engage them. If talent with the exact skills can’t be found, TA can still hire based on the potential and inherent skills of the top candidates, working with L&D to create the development paths to fill those crucial gaps.Make smarter decisions with talent intelligence.While finding talent with the most in-demand skills may be challenging, companies that drive collaboration between their TA and L&D teams will be better positioned to identify the right people, or nurture promising talent to help them learn those skills. When guided by robust talent intelligence, the result is a streamlined approach to acquiring the skills needed immediately, while providing the training that keeps up with the skills needed for the future.Download Randstad’s latest in-demand skills research. See the supply and demand of the skills you need with the in-demand skills dashboard.

Why Talent Acquisition and L&D Must Work Together to Find Talent With Key Skills

The increasing demand for upskilling and reskilling, paired with technological advancements, has paved the way for new learning methods that are restructuring how organizations approach employee development. With the uprising of digital transformation, staying ahead of the latest L&D trends is crucial for organizations aiming to create a skilled, adaptable workforce. Embracing Personalization in LearningOne of the most transformative trends in L&D is the shift toward personalized learning experiences. Unlike traditional, one-size-fits-all methods, modern learners crave content tailored to their unique needs, goals, and learning styles. By utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics, organizations can create learning paths that adapt in real-time, ensuring employees receive the most relevant training exactly when needed. Adaptive learning technologies, which modify content delivery based on a learner’s progress and performance, are at the forefront of this innovation. These tools boost engagement and enhance retention, making them a cornerstone of contemporary L&D strategies. Microlearning: Small Bites, Big ImpactMicrolearning is another innovative approach gaining momentum. This method breaks down complex topics into short, focused lessons, making it easier for learners to grasp and retain information. By offering bite-sized content, organizations can meet the modern learner’s need for flexibility and quick access to information, making the learning process more convenient and less overwhelming. The shift toward microlearning aligns with the growing mobile learning trend, which allows employees to access training materials on the go. This is particularly important as remote work and global teams become more common, further illustrating the future of education technology in L&D. Collaborative and Social Learning Learning is no longer confined to formal, structured environments. Today’s workforce thrives on collaboration and knowledge sharing, leading to the rise of social and collaborative learning tools. Platforms that enable employees to interact, share ideas, and solve problems together foster a culture of continuous learning. Whether through discussion boards, peer-to-peer mentoring, or real-time collaboration tools, these methods promote active participation and build a strong sense of community within the organization. The power of collaboration is found in the content shared and the connections built across teams. These connections are the catalyst for achieving remarkable results and driving progress. Immersive Learning Technologies: The Future of EducationImmersive learning experiences are becoming increasingly common. Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed-reality platforms allow employees to use simulations replicating real-world challenges in a safe and controlled environment. These technologies provide hands-on, experiential learning that enhances skills retention and builds confidence. Immersive learning is particularly beneficial in industries where practical training is essential, such as healthcare, manufacturing, and emergency services. The ability to simulate high-pressure scenarios without real-world consequences makes VR and AR indispensable tools in modern L&D. The Rise of AI-Powered Learning PlatformsAI is revolutionizing educational technology. From chatbots that offer instant support to AI-driven content creation, automation is making learning more efficient and accessible. AI-powered Learning Experience Platforms (LXPs) enable organizations to curate personalized learning paths, recommend content, and analyze performance data to predict future learning needs. This intelligent automation allows L&D professionals to focus on strategic initiatives, ensuring that learning aligns with organizational goals. By leveraging AI, organizations can foster a forward-thinking culture of learning that anticipates future skill requirements and addresses them proactively. The Future Is Now The latest L&D trends show that the future of learning is driven by innovation, adaptability, and a focus on personalized, collaborative, and immersive experiences. As organizations embrace these cutting-edge methods, they are better equipped to develop a skilled workforce ready to tackle today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. By adopting cutting-edge educational technology, businesses can ensure that their learning and development initiatives consistently drive success and expansion.

Revolutionizing Education: Exploring the Latest Trends in Learning

November 2024 - TD Magazine

As 2024 unfolds, the HR and L&D landscape has transformed significantly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Earlier in the year, CYPHER Learning made key predictions for 2024 about AI’s role in shaping the future of work and learning. Now, many of those predictions have become a reality. The AI trends that have emerged are not just speculative but practical shifts in how we work and learn.Here are eight AI predictions for 2024 that have stood the test of time and are shaping the HR and L&D market today.1. Proactive AIOne major prediction was that AI would become more proactive, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing. AI now anticipates user needs rather than waiting for input. Tools like Microsoft’s Copilot and Google’s Gemini have taken proactive AI mainstream, streamlining workflows across industries by predicting actions and suggesting content.In HR, this has translated into AI tools that automatically recommend training courses based on employee roles and skills gaps, making it easier for L&D teams to stay ahead of workforce needs and ensuring more tailored learning experiences.2. Refined vs. Raw AI2024 saw a shift from experimental AI models to more polished and reliable tools. The refinement of AI systems, driven by improved oversight and cross-checking mechanisms, ensures accuracy and reduces the risk of errors or biases. OpenAI and Google, for example, have refined their models to deliver more dependable results.In L&D, this refinement is critical. AI Crosscheck from CYPHER plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy of AI-generated content, particularly for training programs, making sure employees receive high-quality, validated learning experiences.3. Remote Training for ManagersThe prediction that AI would help managers lead distributed teams has also proven true. With remote and hybrid work becoming the norm, AI tools are being used to support managers in training and managing teams from a distance.Platforms like Zoom and Salesforce now integrate AI to enhance communication, track employee progress, and provide real-time feedback, ensuring that remote teams stay productive and engaged. This has helped bridge the gap between remote workers and in-office teams, offering personalized training and support.4. Workforce VersatilityAI has become a key driver in creating a versatile workforce. Platforms like Udemy and CYPHER Learning use AI to help employees build both hard and soft skills, offering personalized learning paths based on individual goals and performance.This shift is essential in today’s rapidly evolving work environment. AI-driven tools ensure that employees remain adaptable and versatile, ready to meet the challenges of a changing job market.5. Upskilling and ReskillingAs industries rapidly change, the need for upskilling and reskilling has become more urgent. AI has played a crucial role in helping organizations address these challenges by identifying skills gaps and recommending tailored training solutions. For example, the CYPHER Learning platform automates the mapping of course content to skills and assessments, enabling employees to quickly develop and master the competencies required to keep pace with technological advancements.This automation makes L&D efforts more scalable and efficient, allowing companies to better align employee development with their business objectives.6. Improving Daily LifeAI is now embedded in both personal and professional settings, streamlining tasks and improving daily workflows. From virtual assistants like Alexa to AI-powered learning platforms, technology is making everyday processes more manageable.In the HR and L&D space, AI is being used to personalize learning experiences, ensuring that employees receive content that is relevant to their needs. AI-driven tools are making it easier for workers to acquire new skills, contributing to more dynamic and adaptable learning environments.7. Job Market ShiftsAI is transforming the job market, just as predicted. New roles focusing on AI management, data analysis, and oversight have emerged, while traditional roles are being redefined to include AI-based skills. This shift is being felt globally; for example, a survey reveals that 78 percent of workers believe AI will affect their roles within the next two years.In HR, AI tools are being used to assess workforce readiness and match candidates to roles more precisely. Meanwhile, L&D teams are leveraging AI to guide employees toward the skills they need to stay competitive in an ever-changing job market.8. Addressing AI BiasThe increased focus on addressing AI bias in 2024 has proven essential. Companies like Google and Microsoft are investing in reducing bias in AI systems, ensuring that AI models are more inclusive and representative of diverse perspectives.In the L&D space, AI-generated content and recommendations must be equitable to ensure that all employees, regardless of background, have access to learning opportunities. This focus on fairness is critical as AI continues to evolve, ensuring that AI systems benefit everyone and promote inclusive growth across organizations.2024 and BeyondWhether it’s refining AI tools, supporting remote work, or addressing bias, the industry has moved in the direction that was forecasted. At CYPHER Learning, we’re proud to have contributed to these advancements, particularly with innovations like AI Crosscheck and AI-enabled skills development, which are helping organizations create smarter, more efficient learning environments.Stay tuned for our 2025 predictions—they’ll provide insight into the next phase of AI’s impact on HR and L&D, helping you stay ahead of the curve.

8 AI Predictions for 2024 That Stood the Test of Time

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI, has the potential to reshape industries and careers on a scale comparable to the internet revolution. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 highlights that nearly a quarter of all jobs worldwide will undergo significant changes within the next five years, with AI as a central force driving this transformation.As we stand on the cusp of this seismic shift, the question arises: how do workers feel about the AI-driven future? CYPHER Learning sought to answer this by surveying 4,543 workers across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mexico, representing various industries. The results paint a picture of cautious optimism tempered by concerns about fairness, equity, and the risk of deepening digital divides.AI’s Transformative Impact on RolesA significant majority of workers—78 percent—anticipate that AI will affect their roles within the next two years. However, this widespread acknowledgment of AI’s influence is accompanied by unease. For example, 38 percent of respondents believe they will need to retrain as their current jobs could become obsolete. This statistic underscores a fundamental anxiety: the fear of being left behind in a rapidly evolving job market.Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom. Many workers are already reaping the benefits of AI in their daily tasks. Sixty-two percent say new technologies are reshaping their roles for the better, with 46 percent specifically highlighting how AI is making their jobs easier. This duality of fear and optimism is at the heart of the current AI discourse.The Need for AI Skill DevelopmentWhile most workers recognize the importance of AI skills—73 percent believe these skills will be crucial to their roles over the next five years—there is a stark gap in training. Only 25 percent of workers have received any form of AI training, highlighting a critical area that needs attention if we are to bridge the digital divide.Despite the lack of formal training, there is a strong interest in AI among workers. More than half (53 percent) enjoy experimenting with AI, and 41 percent have already used generative AI in their workplace. However, this enthusiasm is not universal. A notable 33 percent of workers believe AI should be banned in the workplace, indicating a significant level of discomfort and distrust surrounding the technology.The Age and Gender DivideConcerns about AI’s impact are particularly pronounced among older workers. Fifty-seven percent of respondents aged 55 and above feel they are aging out of the workplace, and 46 percent worry that AI could jeopardize their job security. These findings highlight a potential age-related digital divide, where older workers may feel marginalized or left behind as AI becomes more prevalent.The survey also reveals disparities based on location and occupation. Workers in the UK are lagging behind their counterparts in the US and Mexico in terms of AI adoption and the perceived benefits of the technology. Similarly, women, older workers, and those in manual or clerical roles report fewer opportunities to engage with AI. This indicates a risk that these groups may be disproportionately affected by the AI revolution unless proactive steps are taken to ensure equitable access to AI tools and training.The Path Forward: Continuous Learning and Equitable AccessThe survey findings underscore the urgent need for personalized, relevant, and timely training that empowers all workers to adapt to and thrive in an AI-driven world. To prevent AI from exacerbating existing digital divides, it is essential to foster a culture of continuous learning. Organizations must prioritize the provision of on-the-job training and resources that allow workers to develop AI skills “in the moment.”By doing so, we can ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed more equitably, enabling everyone—not just a select few—to succeed in the AI race. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, the onus is on employers, policymakers, and educators to provide the necessary tools and support to bridge the AI digital divide.Next StepsTo explore these insights and understand how AI is reshaping the workforce, read the full survey report: Bridging the AI Digital Divide. Discover how access to training and tools can make a difference in ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to win in the AI race.

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