ADP Research Global Survey Insights:
Gen Z Sees Need to Upgrade Soft Skills in the Next Five Years

27 August, 2024

Shanghai, China, Aug 27, 2024 – The ADP Research’s fourth annual "People at Work 2024: A Global Workforce View" survey reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) technology is transforming the labor market and work patterns. Survey responses from nearly 35,000 workers in 18 countries highlight that 85% of workers believe AI will significantly impact their work within the next two to three years. This sentiment is especially strong among remote workers and the younger generation surveyed, underscoring a clear divide between those who have positive attitudes toward AI and those concerned about job displacement by AI.

The ongoing conversation about AI's influence on the workplace and skill requirements has also sparked deep concerns about skill enhancement. The report emphasises that Chinese workers prioritise management skills (43%), interpersonal skills (42%), data analysis skills (38%), and social skills (37%) as critical areas for improvement over the next five years when planning for future job competencies.

The survey also reveals distinct differences in skill needs and perspectives across age groups. Young workers aged 18-24 place the highest importance on interpersonal relationships (35%) and social skills (34%), whereas those over 45 years old prioritise management skills (49%) and data analysis skills (47%) more.

Digitalisation and artificial intelligence are revolutionising industries globally. Ms. Lily Ma, General Manager of North Asia at ADP, commented: "The widespread adoption of digitalisation and artificial intelligence technologies is prompting companies and professionals to reassess the core skills and job competencies needed for future work.

Ms. Lily Ma further emphasised: "As new graduates enter the workforce, soft skills training tailored for the 'digital and technology generation' can further support their success. Senior employees and managers can incorporate programs relevant to Gen Z workers such as management skills training to foster cross-generational skill sharing and workplace harmony.”

ENDS

For more insights, please read the ‘People at Work 2024: A Global Workforce View’ report here.

About the research
People at Work 2024: A Global Workforce View explores employees’ attitudes towards the current world of work and what they expect and hope for from the workplace of the future.

ADP Research surveyed 34,612 workers in 18 countries around the world between 22 October – 24 November 2023, with at least 500 per market, specifically in the gig economy. This included:

  • 15,383 in Europe (France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom)
  • 9,567 in Asia Pacific (Australia, China, India, Japan and Singapore)
  • 5,860 in Latin America (Argentina, Brazil and Chile)
  • 3,802 in North America (Canada and the United States)

Within the worker sample gig workers and traditional workers were identified. Gig workers were identified as those who work on a contingent, temporary, or seasonal basis, or as a freelancer, independent contractor, consultant, gig worker, or use an online platform to source work. Traditional employees were identified as those who are not working in the gig economy and instead have a permanent full or part-time position.

The survey was conducted online in the local language. Overall results are weighted to represent the size of the working population for each country.

About ADP Research

The mission of ADP Research is to make the future of work more productive through data-driven discovery. Companies, workers, and policymakers rely on our finely tuned data and unique perspective to make informed decisions that impact workplaces around the world.

About ADP (Nasdaq: ADP)

Designing better ways to work through cutting-edge products, premium services and exceptional experiences that enable people to reach their full potential. HR, Talent, Time Management, Benefits and Payroll. Informed by data and designed for people. Learn more at ADP.com.

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