How to be more competitive in the labor market in the coming years?

AI skills are no longer the future – they are a condition for professional survival

Digital transformation and the rapid development of artificial intelligence are changing not only business models but also the very understanding of "valuable qualification".

In our latest survey, we sought an answer to the question:

“What is the most valuable qualification we can add in the near future to be more competitive in the labor market?“

 

What are the results of it:

Qualification	Percentage of votes
Handling AI tools	63%
Learning some manual craft	20%
Mastering more languages	14%
Certificate in multiple areas	3%

 

What do the data tell us?

1. Handling AI tools – the new basic literacy

More than half of the participants point to AI skills as the most valuable investment in themselves. This is not surprising – with the expansion of tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, Copilot, and others, the ability to use artificial intelligence is no longer just for specialists, but for every professional, regardless of the field. AI does not replace people, but enhances their capabilities – those who master it work faster, smarter, and more strategically.

2. Manual crafts – counter-trend or sustainable refuge?

In second place with 20% is the answer “Learning some manual craft”. This highlights the demand for sustainable, physical, and hard-to-automate skills. The digital world enhances nostalgia for practical skills – woodworking, craftsmanship, repairs, manufacturing. Although different in nature, this answer is also a sign of adaptation – not everyone will compete for a place in the digital race.

3. Mastering languages – an increasingly less competitive advantage

With 14%, the third answer shows a decline in the strategic value of language skills, which have long been a key asset. The rise of AI translators and automatic subtitles calls into question the need to master many languages – unless they are combined with other competencies (negotiation, cultural sensitivity, commercial skills).

4. The “collection” of certificates no longer impresses

Only 3% believe that multiple certificates are sufficient for competitiveness. This confirms the trend: the market seeks real skills, practical experience, and adaptability, not just paper or online badges. Companies value results, not just diplomas.

 

What conclusions and recommendations can we make?

For employees:

• It’s time for “AI literacy” – regardless of profession. Whether you are HR, a marketing expert, or an architect, the ability to use AI gives you an advantage.
• Invest in real skills, not just certificates.
• Combine: human skills + technological skills = success.

For employers:

• Evaluate and develop AI competencies within teams.
• Restructure training – from “what to remember” to “how to use tools wisely”.
• Do not underestimate people with practical crafts – especially in manufacturing, logistics, and service sectors.

 

What conclusion can we draw?

The labor market is becoming increasingly dynamic and demanding. The main difference between an “evaluated candidate” and a “lagging professional” will not be whether you have a diploma, but whether you can work with new technologies – especially with AI. The key to professional resilience today is not to seek security in old models, but to build skills that technology itself enhances – not replaces.