Research Shows HR Professionals Not Confident In Employee Skillsets, Here’s Why

Skillsoft’s 2025 Global Skills Intelligence Survey indicates that only 10% of HR and learning and development professionals are fully confident in their employees’ ability to meet business objectives in the coming years. The survey included 1,000 HR and L&D professionals from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia.

Key Skill Shortages

The survey highlights significant skill shortages in leadership, AI, and technical knowledge. This skills gap is exacerbated by employees overestimating their capabilities, leading to diminished teamwork and increased stress for managers. This gap between perceived and actual skills is a growing concern for businesses.

Implications for Business Growth

The skills gap is not solely an issue of individual competencies but a barrier to growth. Approximately 28% of respondents indicated that these gaps hinder their ability to enter new markets or pursue new ventures. Furthermore, nearly one-third of new hires lack critical skills, placing additional pressure on training programs and daily operations.

Current Training Landscape

A lack of regular skill assessment contributes to low confidence levels, with only 18% of organizations measuring employee skills consistently. Although 85% of organizations have development programs, only 6% rate them as exceptional. Many programs do not align with business goals, leading to fragmented or outdated training approaches.

AI’s Dual Role

AI plays a complex role in addressing these challenges. While 41% of HR professionals report resistance to change, and 28% cite insufficient AI expertise, nearly half view AI as a tool for enhancing skills intelligence. AI can offer adaptive training, real-time feedback, and interactive simulations, aligning learning with business needs.

Training Preferences

Employees value online video training, mentorship, and instructor-led sessions. However, demand is rising for AI-driven solutions that provide personalized learning experiences and continuous skill assessment. Without evolving training methods, programs risk becoming irrelevant.

Potential Risks

If no changes are made, organizations face significant risks. About 37% of HR professionals are concerned about losing top talent to competitors with better development opportunities. Additionally, one-third view burnout as a direct obstacle to transformation. Aligning skills with business needs is crucial to maintaining project momentum and employee satisfaction.