A recent joint study by Microsoft and LinkedIn revealed that 92% of Indian knowledge workers are incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into their daily activities. Additionally, 91% of the nation’s business leaders acknowledge the need to adopt AI to remain competitive. The report, “AI at work is here. Now comes the hard part,” draws insights from a survey of 31,000 individuals across 31 countries, LinkedIn labor trends, and Microsoft 365 productivity data. It highlights a strong desire among employees for AI integration, with 72% of Indian AI users bringing their AI tools to work. Companies that provide employees with AI tools and training are better positioned to attract top talent, while professionals with AI skills gain a significant edge in the job market.
In India, AI proficiency has become a key hiring criterion, with 75% of business leaders unwilling to hire candidates lacking AI skills. This trend underscores the importance of AI capabilities over traditional experience, as 80% of leaders prefer less experienced candidates who possess AI expertise. Ms. Ruchee Anand, Head of Talent and Learning Solutions at LinkedIn, points out the transformative impact of AI on the talent landscape, noting a 17% rise in demand for AI skills compared to the previous year. She underscores the proactive stance of Indian professionals in acquiring AI skills, emphasizing the necessity of continuous learning in an evolving work environment.
