Most Irish businesses are recognizing the need for upskilling their workforce to stay competitive in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, according to a recent survey conducted by Ipsos Behaviour & Attitudes for Skillnet Ireland.
The research revealed that a majority of businesses believe that upskilling in digitalization and sustainability will be crucial for their employees. Among the 500 business leaders surveyed across various industries and regions, 65% stated that upskilling for the digital transition is essential, while 59% emphasized the importance of upskilling in climate action and sustainability.
When it comes to large businesses, the survey highlighted specific key areas for upskilling, including robotic process automation, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. This underscores the significant role that technology plays in today’s workplaces.
The study also indicated that larger companies have a more positive outlook compared to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with 94% expressing confidence about the future, while only 49% of SMEs shared the same sentiment. Additionally, over half of SMEs reported challenges in recruiting employees with the necessary skills, particularly in cybersecurity, financial management, sales, and marketing – crucial skills for driving growth.
Paul Healy, the CEO of Skillnet Ireland, emphasized the importance of supporting businesses in enhancing their competitiveness by addressing skills gaps. He noted that as businesses navigate the digital and climate transitions, maintaining a strong talent pipeline is essential for overcoming these challenges.
In conclusion, the survey findings underscore the critical role of upskilling in digitalization and sustainability for businesses to thrive in today’s dynamic environment. As technology continues to reshape industries, investing in employees’ skills will be key to staying ahead of the curve and driving growth.
