Dive Brief:
- Despite widespread enterprise interest in AI adoption, basic computer know-how is the top technical skill sought by employers, according to an Indeed report published Tuesday.
- Computer skills were the third most common skill set among Indeed job ads, popping up in 11% of postings. Communication skills and customer service were the two most common terms employers used.
- Jobs related to generative AI continue to represent a small sliver of overall talent demand, amounting to around 0.2% of all positions, according to Indeed. Demand for highly technical occupations, which involve three or more skills, dipped 19% below their pre-pandemic average, the company said.
Dive Insight:
Businesses infusing AI into workflows continuously flag a lack of talent as a barrier to broader adoption. But basic computer skills, including knowledge of common productivity suites such as Microsoft Office, are still top of mind for employers.
"While AI and other advanced technologies are likely to shape the future labor market, the current reality is that many employers are simply seeking workers possessing basic computer skills," said Indeed Economists Alexandre Judes and Jack Kennedy, who co-authored the report.
A lack of elementary digital skills can prevent people from reaching new work opportunities, the economists said. Employers grapple with limited talent pools given the skills gap.
Familiarity with AI fundamentals remains a desirable trait among job seekers, CompTIA found. Basic AI understanding joined data analytics and software know-how among the top three digital skills needed to thrive in the job market, according to a study published by the IT trade group in February.
CIOs have responded to the ongoing knowledge gap with upskilling efforts, backed by key technology providers who have made training available for free or at low costs.
"Given AI’s growing pervasiveness throughout the business, general AI literacy skills will become essential across all roles, and employees should be trained accordingly," said Isabelle Hertanto, IT Workforce Development Research Practice Lead at Info-Tech Research Group. "Targeted, role-based or job-based training is key to realizing the true benefits of skill building within any organization."
To reach their short-term and long-term AI goals, leaders should improve general AI literacy across key roles, training their staff on AI essentials and working with vendors to increase internal know-how, Hertanto said in an email.
