The Future Of Corporate Learning: Skills and AI Converge

Summary

Josh Burson, an industry analyst and thought leader in corporate learning and HR technology, discusses the evolving landscape of HR, the workforce, and technology in a presentation. He highlights the challenges companies face with talent acquisition, the rapid transformation across industries, and the growing importance of skills-based hiring. Burson emphasizes the need for companies to adapt to a more mobile workforce, shift towards skills-based organizations, and leverage AI to enhance corporate training. He also addresses the complexities of corporate training, internal mobility, and the role of AI in reshaping HR technology and learning systems.

Takeaways

• 😀 The economy presents a paradox for companies: slow growth, high interest rates, inflation, high turnover, and difficulties in hiring skilled workers.
• 😀 Corporate transformation is driven by digitalization, with industries colliding as tech companies enter traditional sectors like healthcare and banking.
• 😀 AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the way companies view and manage skills, pushing towards a skills-based workforce model.
• 😀 The workforce is more mobile than ever before, with a significant portion of workers changing jobs and industries, making skill-based hiring more important than traditional job history or pedigree.
• 😀 Companies are focusing more on understanding the skills their employees have and need, rather than solely relying on certifications or traditional credentials.
• 😀 The traditional approach to corporate training is being replaced by a more dynamic and integrated skills-based approach, aimed at driving career growth and mobility within organizations.
• 😀 There is a growing shift towards internal mobility, where companies look to develop and promote talent from within to fill skill gaps, instead of hiring externally.
• 😀 The Learning and Development industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on short, targeted learning experiences instead of long, traditional courses.
• 😀 AI and new technologies are transforming corporate training by enabling faster content development and more personalized, interactive learning experiences.
• 😀 A shift is underway in HR practices, with a broader focus on employees’ growth and career progression, rather than just training for specific roles.

Q & A

What is the main challenge companies are facing in the current economy?

Companies are struggling with a paradox: while the economy is slowing down, interest rates are high, and inflation is rising, they also need to improve productivity and go to market, all while dealing with workforce reductions, difficulty in hiring, and high turnover rates.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected corporate digital transformation?

The pandemic accelerated digital transformation, forcing companies to quickly implement digital systems. Many companies realized they could transform much faster than initially planned, leading to a shift in how industries operate.

Why is there such a demand for workers with new skills across different industries?

Industries are colliding and evolving. For example, retail companies like Walmart are entering healthcare, while banks are being disrupted by tech companies. These changes require workers with new skills that can bridge industries and support transformation.

What is the significance of skill-based hiring in the modern workforce?

Companies are focusing more on hiring based on skills rather than traditional job history or pedigree. This shift is due to the rapid pace of technological change and the increasing demand for workers with specific, adaptable skills.

What is the concept of a 'skills-based organization' and why is it becoming important?

A skills-based organization focuses on identifying, developing, and leveraging employees' skills, rather than simply their job titles or qualifications. It's important because companies need to quickly adapt their workforce to new roles and industries driven by technological transformation.

How are companies redefining corporate training to meet the demands of the changing workforce?

Companies are shifting from traditional course-based training to more dynamic, skills-oriented approaches. This includes using technologies like learning experience platforms, short-form content, and integrating AI to deliver more personalized learning experiences.

What is the role of AI in corporate learning and training?

AI is expected to revolutionize corporate learning by enabling faster content creation, personalized training, and more effective ways for employees to search for information and receive training through chatbots and other AI tools.

What impact has the rise of platforms like LinkedIn had on the job market?

Platforms like LinkedIn have made the job market more fluid by enabling workers to quickly apply to multiple jobs, while also allowing employers to continuously search for talent. This has shifted power to employees, making it easier for them to change jobs and industries.

How are companies adjusting to the increasing mobility of workers?

Companies are focusing on internal mobility, creating talent marketplaces that help employees move into higher-demand roles within the organization, thereby addressing workforce shortages and optimizing talent distribution.

Why is there a growing emphasis on cross-domain skills in the workplace?

Cross-domain skills are increasingly valued because they help individuals navigate the complexities of modern business environments, where roles are more interdisciplinary. Successful workers often possess a combination of skills from different areas, not just deep expertise in a single field.