Randstad’s latest Workmonitor report surveyed workers around the globe about the impact digital technologies such as AI and machine learning are having on their work lives. The survey paints a picture of workers who are fully aware of the growing role of digital technologies play in the workplace, and are doing all they can to stay one step ahead. Employees around the world are acutely feeling the pressure to learn new skills to keep up in their field and feed the intense need for digital-savvy workers.
technology as a force for good
Canadians have a fairly rosy outlook about integrating digital technology into their lives. They acknowledge that new technology is inevitable and that it’s mostly a good thing. After all, it’s difficult to argue with technology that comes with lofty promises such as increased productivity and less time spent on tedious administrative and menial tasks.
- Over half (52%) of Canadians think digital technology will positively impact their work life in the next 5 to 10 years. (That number is slightly lower than the global average of 59%.)
- Almost three quarters (74%) of Canadians believe that digital technology offers new opportunities, right on par with the global average.
the desire to upskill is high
With change comes the need to learn new skills. Canadians are well aware that new technologies flooding into the workplace will require retraining and learning new skills on their part. They’re eager to pick up those skills. Though they think Canada’s education system does a very good job of preparing students all on its own.
- 60% of Canadians believe digitization will require them to learn new skills they don’t currently possess, 2% higher than the global average
- 75% want to learn more digital skills to future proof their career (compared to 80% globally)
- 77% of Canadians believe local schools adequately prepare students with the right job skills (compared to 68% globally)
the logistics of learning new skills
Though Canadians agree that digital skills are necessary to succeed in today’s (and tomorrow’s) workplaces, only about half of Canadians say they’re feeling active pressure to keep up with tech trends. There’s a solid majority agreement, however, that employers should shoulder the responsibility of training and helping workers upskill as needed.
- 47% of Canadians feel pressured to keep up with digital technology (compared to 43% globally)
- 79% of Canadians believe it’s employers’ responsibility to provide training
- Yet, only 40% say their employer is actually investing in digital training (compared to 44% globally)
- 55% of Canadians opt to invest in digital skills on their own time
It’s clear that Canadians are tuned into the importance of digital technology. Do you agree that digital technologies will be a force for good over the decade? We’d love to hear from you on social media!