39% Core Job Skills to Change by 2030 with AI Taking the Lead, says WEF

The World Economic Forum released the Future of Jobs Report 2025 which offers a glimpse into the evolving job market influenced by technology, green transitions, and societal shifts. Further, AI and machine learning specialists are grabbing headlines.

The report states that 39% of core job skills are expected to change by 2030 and the future of work demands agility. Technological skills such as AI expertise, big data analysis, and cybersecurity are considered important. 

But it’s not just tech-related skills, creative thinking, resilience, leadership, and even environmental stewardship are also climbing the skills ladder, stressing the value of a well-rounded, adaptable workforce.

The shift is prompting businesses to invest in reskilling and upskilling initiatives. 

Creative thinking has emerged as a top skill set, along with resilience, flexibility, and agility. Employers are also looking for the spark of curiosity and the drive for lifelong learning, making these traits as valuable as any technical proficiency.

The report also highlighted a shift toward leadership and human-centric skills, with social influence, talent management, and environmental stewardship joining the ranks of the top 10 skills for the future.

Even Naukri.com’s December 2024 report stressed the same. At the tech frontier, AI and machine learning roles are expanding, with a 36% growth rate. Sectors like oil and gas, FMCG, and healthcare are also witnessing double-digit growth, signaling a broad-based economic resurgence.

“India’s job market is entering 2025 with vigour, driven by AI/ML growth and creative sectors. The surge in fresher hiring and evolving C-suite roles signals a transformation into a more dynamic landscape,” says Pawan Goyal, Chief Business Officer at Naukri.