Last Updated:
While 6 in 10 HRs frequently use AI tools at work, Gen Z raises concerns about “intellectual dwarfism” and stifled creativity due to over-reliance on AI.
HRs rank analytical skills, teamwork, and strategic leadership as top priorities yet hardest to find. (Representative image)
A growing preference for skill-based evaluations is reshaping the hiring process, with 95% of students favoring skill assessments over traditional methods, and 46% advocating for these assessments to occur before resume screening, said a new report.
Based on comprehensive surveys of 6,900 GenZ professionals and 610 HR leaders, the report added that 73% of HR professionals identify mentorship as the most effective solution. However, a disconnect exists in AI readiness—while 68% of Gen Zs consider themselves competent in AI, only 13% of HRs believe graduates are well-prepared to work with it.
On a positive note, 85% of Gen Zs express a strong demand for workplace training, and organisations are stepping up to meet this need by providing the necessary resources for continuous learning and development.
Unstop, a platform for talent attraction, assessment, and hiring, recently unveiled its “Unstop Hiring Kart: Skills & AI Report 2024″. The report provided insights into the evolving dynamics of skills, job preparedness, and the growing role of AI in the workplace.
Key Findings:
AI Training and Salaries:
- 89% of Gen Z and 68% of HR professionals believe that candidates with AI training command higher salaries.
- 45% of Gen Zs identify Data & AI as indispensable skills, though only 14% of HRs echo this sentiment.
- Despite mixed opinions, 65% of HRs report integrating AI expertise into hiring strategies.
Skill Gaps and Workforce Readiness:
- 45% of Arts, Science, and Commerce graduates feel unprepared for the workforce, while 25% of working professionals share the same concern.
- Both 93% of HRs and 78% of Gen Z believe traditional degrees are losing relevance, urging academia to focus on job readiness.
Workplace Skills in Demand:
- HRs rank analytical skills, teamwork, and strategic leadership as top priorities yet hardest to find.
- 74% of HR professionals advocate structured mentorship programs as a solution.
Recruitment Misalignment:
- 46% of Gen Z prefer skill-based assessments before resume screening, but 59% of HR leaders conduct them post-screening, signaling a need for skill-first hiring strategies.
Polarised Views on AI:
While 6 in 10 HRs frequently use AI tools at work, Gen Z raises concerns about “intellectual dwarfism” and stifled creativity due to over-reliance on AI.
Upskilling and Continuous Learning:
- 60% of Gen Zs actively pursue upskilling via online courses, internships, and competitions.
- Despite 81% of organisations offering training resources, 19% still neglect to invest in this critical area.
CEO Insights:
Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop, emphasised, “The report underscores the urgency for academia and organisations to bridge the skill gap. Gen Z is embracing AI and demanding meaningful development opportunities. Organisations must adapt hiring strategies, champion mentorship, and foster continuous learning to build a workforce ready for an AI-driven future.”
