Future of work 2025: Human skills in an AI-driven world

Future of work 2025: Human skills in an AI-driven world

Robert Marchiori, CEO, Cognizant Australia, pitches profound changes to the workforce over the coming year.

The AI-agentic revolution and rapid advancements in technology are at the centre of discussion among experts. As new approaches and solutions accelerate adoption, these innovations are set to redefine how we work, bringing profound changes to the workforce in 2025.

The impact of these advancements – whether they lead to greater productivity and job satisfaction or pose challenges like workforce disruption – will depend on how businesses choose to embrace and implement the technology.

Below, I’ll explore some of the most critical trends that will shape the future of work and how we can ensure a positive impact for both employers and employees.

Leadership Redefined

In 2025, leadership will no longer be judged on conventional skills alone. Leaders will need to demonstrate proficiency in AI and its strategic integration into business operations. However, a recent Cognizant report revealed that only 28% of Australian businesses rated their Gen AI skills and talent strategies as mature, indicating a significant need for broader AI literacy. Leaders who prioritise their upskilling and embrace AI tools will enhance decision-making, operational efficiency and innovation. AI will become a powerful competitive advantage and leadership will be critical in translating technological potential into organisational success. To thrive, leaders must adopt a mindset of continuous learning, aligning their vision with AI’s rapid evolution.

Human-Centric Skills

As AI takes over routine tasks, the workforce will need to focus on softer, human-centric skills that automation cannot replicate. Critical thinking, creativity, empathy, collaboration, and strategic thinking will define value. The ability to identify problems – not just solve them – will also become central. By automating operational tasks, AI will enable workers to dedicate more time to roles that require these skills. Businesses will need to implement professional development initiatives to nurture these skills, while workers should actively seek experiential learning opportunities to stay competitive. The shift will emphasise the qualities that make human contributions indispensable.

People-Centric AI Strategies

The businesses that succeed with AI in 2025 will be those that use the technology as an enabler for people, not a replacement. Data from Cognizant reveals that 54% of Australian businesses plan to introduce training programs specifically to upskill their workforce in Gen AI. HR departments will play a critical role in identifying areas where AI can augment roles and designing reskilling programs to prepare employees for these transitions. By focusing on internal talent transformation, businesses can redeploy existing employees into new AI-enabled roles, reducing the need for external hires. This approach fosters a culture of lifelong learning, ensuring the workforce remains aligned with AI’s advances and creating a harmonious integration of human talent and technology.

Non-Linear Careers

Gen AI will redefine career trajectories, enabling workers to move away from traditional, linear career paths and embrace more fluid and dynamic opportunities. With AI-assisted tools making skill acquisition easier, workers will have the freedom to pivot across industries and roles more seamlessly. Businesses must adapt by offering flexible career frameworks that support lateral moves, stretch assignments and diverse learning opportunities. This flexibility will help attract and retain top talent while building a workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven economy. The future of careers will be less about climbing ladders and more about forging adaptable and fulfilling professional journeys.

Preparing for the future of AI requires a joint effort. Workers must take proactive steps to upskill, building foundational AI knowledge while focusing on uniquely human skills like emotional intelligence and strategic thinking. Businesses, in turn, need to invest in education, provide access to resources and create clear pathways for employees to transition into AI-enhanced roles.

Governments also have a critical part to play, with 44% of Australian businesses would like to see government funding to support reskilling initiatives and 47% looking to partner with AI consultants to navigate the complexities of rapid technological change.


When AI is implemented in a way that empowers humans, it creates a win-win scenario for individuals and businesses alike. This isn’t just about adapting to change—it’s about shaping it into a future where technology and humanity thrive together.

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