AI is changing work very fast. But this does not mean companies only want people who can build robots or write complex code. New research shows a more balanced picture. The World Economic Forum said in January 2025 that by 2030, 170 million jobs may be created while 92 million may disappear, for a net gain of 78 million jobs. At the same time, almost 40% of today’s job skills are expected to change. In other words, many jobs will not simply vanish. They will change. (weforum.org)

So, what kind of people do companies want now? First, they want people who can use AI as a tool. Microsoft and LinkedIn found that 71% of leaders would rather hire a less experienced person with AI skills than a more experienced person without them. The same report says 66% of leaders would not hire someone without AI skills. This shows that basic AI ability is becoming as important as using email or spreadsheets. (microsoft.com)

But AI skill alone is not enough. Companies still need human strengths. The World Economic Forum says analytical thinking is the top core skill for employers. It also highlights resilience, flexibility, agility, and creative thinking as very important. Curiosity and lifelong learning are rising too. These are the skills AI cannot easily replace. A machine can give quick answers, but people still need to ask good questions, solve new problems, work with others, and make careful decisions. (weforum.org)

Another important point is that AI will probably change more jobs than it destroys. In May 2025, the ILO and NASK reported that one in four jobs worldwide could be affected by generative AI, but transformation is more likely than full replacement. That means companies are looking for workers who can learn, adapt, and grow with new tools. The best employee in the AI age may be simple to describe: someone who is not afraid of technology, but is also deeply human — curious, flexible, and ready to keep learning. (ilo.org)