The digital world has evolved continuously over the past few decades, but never at the same rate as today, thanks to the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence software and technologies. These advancements make businesses more productive and profitable, but they also emphasize the importance of upskilling your team to ensure sustained growth and success.
Investing in your team’s development is an investment in your business's future. The recent WSI AI Business Insights Report supports this point, demonstrating a notable knowledge gap regarding AI and how teams can embrace its uses within small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). This knowledge gap is both a challenge and an opportunity requiring swift action.
What the Data Says
The report indicates that most business leaders are intensely interested in embracing AI to boost profits, attract new clients, enhance productivity, and ensure customer satisfaction. However, 62% of those surveyed reported being either unfamiliar, slightly familiar, or only somewhat familiar with AI and its potential uses within the workplace.
Additionally, 69% of the respondents said they hadn’t participated in any AI-specific training or educational programs in 2023 or early 2024 – and 55% cited a lack of internal knowledge or technical skills in AI as the main reason for not yet adopting AI tools or strategies within their organizations.
In short, the enthusiasm is there, but business owners need to increase their investment in AI education and training to make the most of its nearly limitless potential. And this finding isn’t surprising. According to the World Economic Forum, a staggering 44% of workers' skills are expected to be disrupted in the next five years, with six in ten employees requiring training before 2027. Staying ahead of this curve requires a proactive approach to upskilling, ensuring your team possesses the knowledge and skills to make the most of the power of AI and drive your business forward.
The Benefits of Upskilling Up Your Business Teams
The benefits of upskilling extend beyond simply keeping pace with technological advancements. A report by TalentLMS revealed that 76% of employees are likelier to stay with a company that offers continuous training. Investing in your team’s development is a powerful retention strategy in a competitive job market. Furthermore, the report shows that more than half of employees know that additional training is vital for improving performance.
Ultimately, the rewards of consistent upskilling within your business are win-win. By providing opportunities for growth, you enhance individual capabilities while increasing overall team productivity and innovation. By building a culture of continuous learning, you can tap into your employees’ existing drive and channel it towards achieving your business objectives.
Guidelines for Powering Up Your Team's AI Skills
So, how can you effectively upskill your team in the age of AI? Here are some guidelines to get you started:
- Prioritize AI Education: Dedicate resources to training programs focused on AI tools and technologies relevant to your industry and each employee’s specific role. Don’t reinvent the wheel; leverage existing AI education resources tailored to different skill levels and needs. WSI can help you identify and implement suitable training programs that align with your business objectives.
- Focus on Practical Application: Theoretical knowledge alone isn’t enough. Training should emphasize the practical application of AI within your specific business operations. Consider organizing workshops and training sessions focusing on real-world use cases and demonstrating how AI can solve everyday challenges. Mentor your employees as they explore and discover, offering feedback.
- Cultivate a Culture of Continuous Learning: Upskilling is not a one-time event. It must be an ongoing process if your business is to yield long-term results. Encourage a culture of continuous learning within your organization by providing access to relevant resources, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing, and recognizing and rewarding those who embrace new skills.
- Partner with Experts: Navigating the complexities of AI adoption can be daunting – especially since you’re also likely still learning about its intricacies and abilities. Partnering with experienced consultants, like those at WSI, can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the upskilling process. We can help you develop a tailored upskilling strategy, identify the right training programs, and ensure your team is equipped to leverage AI effectively.
By prioritizing upskilling, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of AI, you’ll equip your team to succeed in the present while laying the foundation for sustainable growth and innovation in the years to come.
Contact your local WSI Consultant today to explore how we can help your teams reach their full potential through strategic upskilling initiatives.
