While artificial intelligence and machine learning-related job postings continue to increase, the demand for “human skills” — including leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence — outstrips the demand for digital skills across all regions, according to a Sept. 24 report from Cornerstone OnDemand.

The report stems from data pulled by SkyHive by Cornerstone which covers “more than 200 countries and territories, including job postings, resumes, government data, and other data points in 11 languages,” according to a press release announcing the findings.

Notably, generative AI-related job postings have surged 411% following the launch of ChatGPT in early 2023. However, that increase is contextualized by the fact that, according to Cornerstone data, such jobs still only made up 0.3% of global job postings at their height in 2024, and those postings are concentrated in software development and IT services. 

However, human skills, also known as soft skills, are also in high demand. Cornerstone said the most common human skills-related job postings tend to be in communication, interpersonal collaboration, and problem-solving. In North America, demand for such skills outpaces demand for digital skills by 2.4 times, while in Europe, demand is 2.9 times higher than demand for digital skills.

“Our report highlights the exponential rise of GenAI skills, but history suggests that, like past innovations, we may see these trends stabilize as GenAI becomes embedded into everyday operations,” Bledi Taska, head of analytics at SkyHive by Cornerstone, said in a statement.

Previous reports have consistently emphasized the importance of upskilling amid AI’s rise, and not just for AI skills. Most HR respondents to a Salary.com survey in 2023 said they focused more on similar soft skills addressed in the Cornerstone report, including communication and problem-solving.

“This report not only reveals the workforce readiness gap […] but also emphasizes the importance of retaining critical human or ’soft’ skills within your organization,” said Mike Bollinger, global VP of strategic initiatives at Cornerstone.

CRI offers support in measuring human skills and comparing them to the needs of the organization. Contact us for support in recruiting and management.