According to Salesforce, just one out of ten UK workers feel they possess digital skills, including AI capabilities, highlighting the digital skills crisis our country is currently experiencing.

There is more to it than just artificial intelligence, the world is rapidly changing, and the digital age is upon us - it has been for a while. There is no denying technological advancements have revolutionised the way we live, work, and communicate. In spite of this, most members of the current and future workforce believe that they lack the appropriate digital skills to be prepared for the future - A concern for UK businesses...

In view of the potential impact of generative AI and other in-demand skills on the workplace across a broad range of industries, this lack of skills is a growing concern.

The facts..

• It is estimated that three out of four UK workers are not ready to operate in a digital environment.
• In the UK, workers report AI, coding, and app development as the fastest-growing digital skills with AI skills predicated to be the most in-demand over the next five years.
• When trying to find a job in today's market, most UK workers consider skills-based experience more important than a degree.
• Salesforce wants UK businesses and the government to work together to set up an online digital skills platform to show people where to get training.

Digital Skills Readiness Index.
According to a recent survey across 19 countries, UK workers only scored 33 out of a possible 100 points on the Digital Skills Readiness Index. A number of factors were evaluated in this index, including preparedness, access to learning resources, skill level, and participation in training. U.S. workers performed slightly better, earning 36 points out of 100.

So, what are digital skills?
An individual with digital skills is capable of using, understanding, and navigating digital technology. As technology continues to advance and transform the way we work, they are essential for success in the current and future workforce.

According to the survey, there are three major skills gaps that need to be addressed:

1. Social media and digital communication. The vast majority of respondents report having "advanced" or "intermediate" skills. However, only one-third feel prepared for the workplace social media skills needed over the next five years. It is estimated that more than six out of ten global respondents believe that skills in collaboration technology, such as Slack, are among the most important skills that businesses will need in a few years. Despite respondents' proficiency with the skills listed above, only 25% rated themselves as "advanced" in collaboration technology skills specific to the workplace.
2. Among respondents from the Gen Z generation, the first generation to be born into the digital age, only 31% feel "very equipped" for a digital-first career at this time. In areas such as coding , data encryption & cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, few Gen Z respondents consider themselves to have "advanced" digital skills.
3. There is a skills gap between senior leadership and their workforce when it comes to digital skills readiness and education. Most senior leadership respondents reported that they possess the digital skills necessary in the present day. Despite this, less than half of managers and individual contributors agree, indicating a disconnect within organizations.

Conclusion
The skills gap is concerning, particularly as the world becomes increasingly dependent on digital technology. To prepare their workforce for the future, businesses should invest in digital skills training and education.
Research conducted by Salesforce indicates that there is a lack of digital confidence among the UK workforce, and businesses should explain just how accessible digital skills are, particularly those that pertain to data management and artificial intelligence (AI).

Although the digital age is upon us, we still have a long way to go when it comes to digital skills readiness. Individuals and businesses alike must take action to bridge these skills gaps and ensure we are equipped with the skills we need to succeed in the digital age. As AI, data, and automation innovation accelerates, it is becoming increasingly urgent for UK businesses to adapt.

Taking action now to close the digital skills gap will enable millions of UK workers to better navigate this new era.