Companies globally are grappling with a skills shortage driven by various factors from the rapid adoption of new technologies, such as AI and automation, to changing employee needs, says Lyndy van den Barselaar, managing director at ManpowerGroup SA, a global workforce solutions company.
While businesses face a shortage of skilled workers, on the other end of the spectrum, countries are facing record numbers of unemployment which is supported by the ManpowerGroup Talent Shortage survey which found that 69% of companies across the globe have reported a talent shortage, the employment expert said.
“As the need for soft skills, including adaptability, communication, teamwork, and more take on increased importance, employers will need to ensure their people are constantly being provided opportunities to improve their skillsets.” Van den Barselaar said that the heightened focus on reshaping company culture to build trust, retain remote teams and energise the employee experience will need an environment that brings a sense of purpose and wellbeing plus empathetic leadership for a digital world.