LinkedIn has published its Workplace Learning Report, highlighting the importance of soft skills like communication as the employment landscape is transformed by artificial intelligence (AI).

By 2030, skills required for a job in Australia are expected to have changed by 66%, with 95% of Learning and Development professionals in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) of the belief that human skills are becoming increasingly competitive in the economy.

Communication topped LinkedIn’s most in-demand soft skills list across all countries in APAC, as AI frees up time for professionals to excel in jobs only people can do, like build relationships and collaborate with others.

The number of jobs mentioning General Purpose Technology (GPT) or Chat GPT on LinkedIn has surged 21 times in the past year. In 2024, LinkedIn found 90% of Australian companies plan to enhance their employees’ skills and abilities, with 39% looking to provide online training and development programs.

“Investing in people’s growth is no longer a perk but a strategic imperative, considering that our workforce is the driving force behind companies’ success in an era being shaped by AI,” LinkedIn Talent and Learning Solutions Senior Director ANZ, Adam Gregory, said.

“In the past year, the narrative was dominated by technological advancements and the integration of AI into business workflows. Now we are witnessing a pronounced shift towards skills – both technical and soft skills – to thrive in the era of AI.”

In Australia, the top five skills hiring managers considered the most important were problem-solving abilities (45%), communications skills (40%), critical thinking (31%), time management (25%) and listening skills (16%).

“Communication is currently the most in-demand soft skill in Australia, as AI tools allow professionals to focus on uniquely human tasks such as communication, building relationships and collaborating with others,” Gregory said.

More than 7 in 10 (71%) of Australian employers have observed substantial changes in the skills and qualifications they prioritise in job candidates due to the impact of AI and automation. Internal mobility is becoming increasingly important in attracting and retaining top talent within organisations, with 39% of leaders identifying career progression opportunities as their key priority this year.

LinkedIn has introduced AI-powered experiences, including Recruiter 2024 and AI-powered coaching in LinkedIn Learning. The platform is set to launch new career development and internal mobility features within LinkedIn Learning in early March.