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Careers & workplace advice from Hays

Looking for tips on writing the perfect CV? Find free CV tips, with explanations and examples, right here! Whichever stage of the process you’re at, you’ll get expert advice that improves your chances of success. 

This page offers you a step-by-step guide on how to write a CV. After you’ve read each of the blogs on this page, you’ll be ready to send an application that truly impresses your next employer. 

We start with a quick overview of what a good application looks like, before moving directly into the CV structure. You’ll find in-depth advice on how to write a Personal Statement and lay out your Employment History, with tips on using persuasive language. You’ll also learn which skills to put on your CV and the best ways to do this. 

After this, we look at the things to avoid in a perfect CV. Using real CV examples, we’ll explain what to check for during your review and how to make the right changes. In today’s world of work, your digital profile can be the difference between a new job and continuing your job search, so we also explore how to elevate yours. Lastly, there are tips on crafting your CV cover letter to further help you tell your story. 

Ready? Let’s start writing your CV! 

Part 1: Understanding your CV 

Before you begin writing a CV, you’ll need to determine what’s needed to impress the reader. Since you’ll be tailoring your generic (or template) CV for every role, it’s best to decide this now so that it saves you time in the long run. 

In our first blog, we look at what your CV should tell the reader if you’re to be successful: 

Part 2: Write your CV 

Next, we move onto how to write a CV. 

Whether your CV is being reviewed by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) tool or a human being, there’s an easy trick you can deploy to stand out as a more impressive candidate. This is something you should be taking advantage of throughout your CV. Our blog on this includes examples that every perfect CV needs: 

CV structure 

Then it’s time to move through the CV, from top to bottom. There’s no single correct CV layout, but there are certainly best practices you can employ to make sure you’ve got the perfect CV structure for you. 

After your name and contact details, you should begin with your personal statement, which summarises who you are and what you want from your next career move. Our blog includes detailed examples of how to start your CV: 

Next, your Employment History, which will comprise the majority of your CV. Your current or most recent role should be at the top, before working backwards. Your CV should tell a story of who you are – if some of your early positions aren’t relevant, it’s ok to omit these or put less focus on them. For each role, provide the:​ 

  • Job title​ 
  • Company (and location)​ 
  • Dates of employment​ 
  • Type of contract 
  • Bullet points with more details 

It’s a common misconception that the Employment History section should simply list your past responsibilities. Our next blog looks at how you can showcase your achievements, with CV examples for different successes and roles: 

After this, you should list your skills so that they’re easy to scan. Although your CV should include examples in your Employment History, it’s worth adding a clear, dedicated section, too. Beyond your technical skills (such as analytics tools or other software), our blog looks at which soft (or human) skills to put on your CV: 

Beyond these four sections, your CV layout can vary. Some candidates early in their career might want to include their Education section before looking at Achievements. For others, listing any recent certifications or accomplishments might take precedence over their most recent formal education. A perfect CV will include both, regardless. 

Adapt your CV to your career stage 

Depending on where you are in your career, there are other ways to write a CV that can help your application. Otherwise, you’re ready to move onto Part 3. 

If you’re at the start of your career, you might be concerned about whether you’ve developed enough experience or skills to make your CV stand out. If you don’t know what to put on your CV in this scenario, our blogs can guide you on what to do: 

Alternatively, if you’re currently applying for a job following a redundancy, it’s important to be honest about the situation. At the same time, there are ways to do this so that you present yourself as a proactive candidate: 

Part 3: Before applying 

The above template will help you to write a comprehensive CV, but you’re not done yet. 

Start with a thorough CV review. The first thing to look for are any overused cliches that will weaken the impact of your application, followed by the removal of common mistakes that further harm your chances of success: 

Following your CV review, it’s time to make sure your digital profile is at its best. From optimising your LinkedIn account to creating a portfolio or website, we look at ways to enhance your employability: 

Part 4: Apply for the job 

You’re almost ready to submit your CV. Before you go ahead and hit ‘Send’, there are a couple more things to check off the list. 

Should you be successful in your application, you’ll need to provide references. Instead of rushing to organise this when you’re about to sign the contract, it’s best to be proactive: 

And what about a CV cover letter? Where possible, writing one page to accompany your application give you an extra opportunity to tell your story and expand on your unique selling points: 

Keeping your CV up to date 

When the time comes to update your CV, there are quick ways to do this without a full rewrite. Make sure you’re ready to respond to opportunities and apply quickly with these tips: 

This list of blogs should provide you with the perfect CV template to help you land your dream job. By following each of these steps, you’ll be able to write a CV that ticks all the boxes and give you an advantage in your job search. 

Good luck! 

On paper, writing about yourself should be the easiest thing in the world. However, when it comes to putting pen to that paper and writing a personal statement for your CV, it suddenly seems a lot harder. 

The personal statement is your first impression to hiring managers and recruiters, so it’s understandable that you’re anxious about getting it right. At the same time, there are lots of ways to get it wrong. 

In this blog, we look at what you need to do to write an emphatic personal statement, with expert advice and examples for you to draw from. 

What is a personal statement? 

Your personal statement is essentially a short introduction to yourself as a professional. It should be at the top of your CV, and succinctly cover who you are, what you’re good at and what you want to do next. See it as a brief opportunity to pitch yourself to a potential employer. 

While your CV will probably be first scanned by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) tool to verify your suitability for the vacancy, the personal statement will be the first thing a hiring manager checks when CV reaches them. 

As a result, writing a strong personal statement will significantly your chances of being invited for an interview.  

Examples of what your personal statement should include 

Your personal statement may only be one short paragraph, but that makes the structure even more important. You’ll need to summarise who you and what you’ll bring to the table, all while ensuring it’s relevant for the role. 

The best way to do this is to break down your personal statement into three parts: 

  1. Introduction – start by explaining who you are and what level of experience you have. For example: “I’m a hands-on Finance Manager with strong stakeholder engagement skills and a results-driven attitude.” 
  1. Skills and experience – Outline your key skills and evidence the achievements which set you apart from the competition. For example: “With six years’ industry experience, I’m able to increase visibility within a business, drive efficiencies and implement cost-saving measures that increase profits and provide a greater return on investment.” 
  1. Ambitions for the future – Finish with what you’re looking to achieve next in your career, ensuring it aligns with the role. This will instantly indicate to the hiring manager that you should be shortlisted for an interview. For example: “I would now like to develop my skills in a global business environment, where I can progress my career within accountancy.” 

Following this plan will help you to hit all the key points you need to get across, while keeping things short and sweet. 

Examples of how to write your personal statement with AI tools

Consider using ChatGPT or Copilot to help you write the first draft of your personal statement. Provide it with a few bullet points that cover the three sections on the left, or ask it to write something based on your career history. 

Alternatively, you can write the first draft yourself, before asking an AI tool to suggest improvements, based on the job description. 

What to remember 

  1. Adopt a formal but warm tone – your first impression should be professional. 
  2. Don’t write more than 100 words – a personal statement should be a concise summary of your professional profile. If you want to go into more detail about your story and ambitions, you can expand on this in a cover letter.
  3. Include relevant action verbs to evidence achievements – this will convey your success in previous roles and what you can bring to the organisation. 
  4. Use keywords from the job description – the Applicant Tracking System will search for anything relevant to the role. Extract keywords and include them in your introduction, but don’t pack too many in. 
  5. Tailor your personal statement to each role you apply for – changing this every time won’t take long, but is definitely worth the effort. 
  6. Keep everything in the first person – just as with the rest of your CV, consistency is key. 

Next steps 

Once you’ve written and proofread your personal statement, both by yourself and with the help of the AI tool, it’s time to move onto the Employment History section of your CV. 

Learn the best way to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities to date in our next blog. 

Click here to view our full step-by-step series on writing the perfect CV.

It’s no secret that an up-to-date and engaging digital profile can help you in your job search to get noticed by recruiters – whether you’re actively looking for a new role, or open to opportunities.  

In today’s job market, your digital presence is just as important as your CV, as recruiters and hiring managers often look beyond your application to see how you present yourself online. 

However, this doesn’t just apply to LinkedIn. Promoting your skills and experience via an online portfolio is no longer limited to graphic designers or software developers – it’s an effective way to share your story and explain how it will continue with a potential employer during your job search. 

Here’s how to make sure your digital profile gives you the best chance of success.​ 

Three ways to improve your digital profile for job searches 

1. Optimise your LinkedIn profile​ 

If you’re using LinkedIn to search for (or even apply to) jobs, you need to have a profile that’s up to scratch. It’s the first impression you’ll give to a lot of people who can help you find your next role, so it’s worth the effort. 

  • Ensure your LinkedIn profile mirrors your CV in terms of job titles, dates and achievements.​ 
  • Add a professional photo, which has been found to make your profile 14 times more likely to receive visits.​ 
  • Write a headline and summary that highlight your strengths and aspirations – this should align with your personal statement.​ 
  • Connect with peers and other professionals in your field and engage with content that’s relevant to the role you want.  

There are several ways that generative AI tools can help you with this: 

  • Your LinkedIn photo doesn’t need to be a professional headshot. However, you could experiment with AI tools that allow you to create this effect from existing photos.​ 
  • As with your personal statement, consider ChatGPT or Copilot to help you craft a LinkedIn summary.​ 
  • It’s important that your LinkedIn profile reflects you in the best possible light. Try tools such as Resume Worded, which can help you optimise your page. 

However, unless you’re going to edit and personalise the content, it’s best to refrain from using AI to write messages to other members. Although it undoubtedly makes it quicker and easier to make connections, you’re losing the personal touch that’s important when building a network that can support your ambitions. For a better understanding of how well your LinkedIn profile is performing compared to others in your industry or network, you can check your Social Selling Index scores here. 

Lastly, although it can be tempting, do not use the ‘Easy Apply’ option when submitting applications. A generic CV is highly unlikely to align perfectly with the job specification. It also signifies a lack of effort, which in turn implies that you’re not particularly interested in the role. 

2. Create a personal website or portfolio​ 

If you’re in a creative or technical field, a personal website or online portfolio can showcase your work more dynamically than a CV. Platforms such as Wix, Squarespace and GitHub Pages can help you set up.​ 

Ideas include: 

  • A blog about your chosen field or industry, or an extracurricular passion (particularly if your ideal role involves writing or strong communication skills. 
  • A portfolio (this can include projects away from work – especially if you’re thinking of transitioning in your career). 
  • A social media account or YouTube channel with commentary on a particular aspect of your profession. Content could relate to recent updates, new software or hardware, trending news or your own projects. Short video clips are a quick way to demonstrate your knowledge and passion (you can be behind the camera or use an AI voiceover if you’re not a natural presenter) 

If you do create a website, don’t forget to include case studies, testimonials and a downloadable copy of your CV.  

3. Audit your social media​ 

You should know this by now, but prospective employers may check your public social media accounts. 

Consider making them private, and ensure that any public content reflects you in a good light. If you do keep your profiles visible, follow industry leaders and share relevant insights to demonstrate your passion for your work. 

Make sure your digital profile stands out

Today’s jobseekers have a number of channels and avenues to use for promotion, while AI tools make it easier than ever to create your digital profile. To stand out among other applicants, it’s time to make sure you’re showcasing your talents. 

Once you’ve done this and written your CV, it’s time to move onto sending your job application. Click here for guidance on preparing for references.

Alternatively, go back to our full series on writing the perfect CV.

In our ‘Path to the C-Suite’ series, we explore how professionals in different parts of the business can take the next step in their career. Whether you’re in IT, HR, or another function, you’ll find expert guidance on moving toward a seat in the C-Suite. 

In our first blog, we’re taking finance professionals on the journey to becoming Chief Financial Officer (CFO). No longer confined to financial stewardship, today’s CFO is a strategic partner to the CEO, a driver of transformation and a leader in data, technology, and sustainability. 

This blog explores the different pathways to CFO, the skills required, and how emerging technologies like AI are reshaping the finance function. With insights from seasoned finance leaders at Hays, you’ll discover more on how to position yourself for success. 

What does the CFO do? 

You’re probably already familiar with the basic responsibilities of the CFO role. However, beyond managing budgets and compliance, the job description has evolved to keep pace with modern trends. CFOs now increasingly lead on Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) reporting, digital transformation and cross-functional collaboration. 

“Previously the finance function was seen as a gatekeeper, controlling all financial activity. Nowadays, the business is leaning on the finance function as a partner – in helping to analyse the challenge, driving business growth and ensuring the business is profitable.”, notes Echo Wang, Senior Director for A&F at Hays China. 

This evolution of the role gives the CFO greater influence within the organisation. With access to data that impacts all aspects of the business, today’s CFO is a trusted voice in making decisions beyond simply guarding the purse strings. As well as a strong working relationship with your CEO, you’ll also work closely with other leaders to guide their operations. This requires a solid understanding of how everything works – and whether it’s a success or not.  

What are the paths to becoming a CFO? 

The key to successfully landing your first CFO role is gaining experience across the three core finance pillars. If you haven’t plied your trade in each of these, your CV will look less impressive when compared to other candidates’. 

James Hilton, Hays CFO, reflects on his own career: “I’ve been a Financial Controller and worked in financial accounting. You don’t need five years doing bank reconciliations, but exposure to these roles is vital to understand success as a finance leader.” 

Financial Control 

This function focuses on accuracy, compliance and safeguarding the financial integrity of the organisation. 

Popular junior roles include Accountant and Auditor, moving up to the Financial Controller position. Holding one or more of these will help to build your technical expertise and regulatory knowledge. 

Commercial Finance 

Using data to create forecasts, professionals in commercial finance offer advice and support to other functions within the organisation. 

Working in a commercial role will help you to learn about strategic decision-making. These roles, such as Commercial Finance Manager, offer greater exposure to the broader business, developing your collaboration skills across departments. 

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence 

With data’s importance only growing in the age of AI implementation, finance teams need experts who can extract tangible action points from the vast amounts of information available. 

Roles like Financial Analyst and Business Analyst focus on deriving insights from data to present to the broader business. 

Which skills does a CFO need to succeed?  

Human skills 

To rise to CFO, professionals must blend technical knowledge with leadership and communication skills. As Stuart Martin, Senior Finance Director at Hays Australia, notes: “The difference between a good CFO and a great one isn’t technical skills – it’s the ability to engage with the broader business. Being able to relay the financial results in a non-financial way is really important.” 

Hilton adds: ““The biggest transition any finance professional will make is learning to tell a story with the numbers. When you can do that, you become a true partner to the business.” 

As such, important human skills (or soft skills) for a finance leader include: 

  • Communication 
  • Storytelling 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Critical thinking abilities 
  • Problem-solving abilities 

Marc Burrage, Managing Director for Hays Asia, has previously shared his tips on developing your communication skills. 

Technical skills 

The technical skills required for success will vary, depending on which of the three finance pillars you’re working in: 

  • Financial Control: a proficient understanding of accounting principles, reporting, compliance and internal controls 
  • Commercial Finance: knowledge of business models and operations 
  • Data Analytics: fluency in SQL, Python and tools such as Power BI, enabling you to manage data sets. 

While a CFO might not need such hands-on expertise in databases, they will need a willingness to upskill in new technologies.

Trends and technology in finance 

AI and automation 

As with many parts of the business, AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are revolutionising finance, from managing routine, time-consuming tasks to generating strategic insights. 

Hilton explains: “Technology is enabling people to think more, not just do more. AI and RPA enhance accuracy, efficiency and decision-making.” 

Karen Young, Finance Director at Hays UK&I, elaborates: “While AI leverages cognitive capabilities to provide data analysis and make informed decisions, RPA excels in automating repetitive, rule-based tasks. When used together, they’re transforming finance by enhancing accuracy, efficiency and strategic decision-making.” 

As a result, professionals will be expected to use and experiment with these tools, in line with their employer’s governance and guardrails. It’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation, rather than catching up to new ways of working. James Musgrave, Finance Director at Hays UK&I, advises: “Be a change agitator. If you’re not searching for what’s next, you’ll get left behind.” 

Sustainability 

ESG reporting is increasing in importance for finance teams, from the organisation itself to Scope 3 emissions in the supply chain. Senior members of finance teams, including the CFO, will become responsible for overseeing climate reporting, while Carbon Accountants and other emerging roles will soon help organisations to track their environmental impact more efficiently. 

Elio Recchia, VP for A&F at Hays USA, predicts: “With roles dedicated to sustainable finance, industry professionals need expertise. There’ll be a focus on more ethical investing and where that money is going.” 

Next steps 

Here are actionable steps to accelerate your journey to CFO: 

  • Broaden your experience: Rotate through financial control, commercial finance and analytics roles. 
  • Upskill in tech: Learn AI, RPA and data visualisation tools. Stay current with emerging technologies. 
  • Develop human skills: Focus on storytelling and communication, stakeholder engagement and change management. 
  • Seek mentorship: Have open conversations with your manager about career goals and development plans. 
  • Think globally: Consider international roles to gain broader exposure and accelerate progression. 

There’s no one path to CFO. However, every journey shares common traits: it demands adaptability, strategic thinking and a proactive mindset. By embracing technology, honing your human skills and gaining diverse experience, you can position yourself as a future finance leader. 

In today’s evolving job market, more professionals are choosing to work as contractors, freelancers or temporary staff. This contingent workforce is growing rapidly, offering flexibility and opportunity. But with that growth comes complexity, especially when it comes to how workers are classified. 

If you’re a contingent worker, your classification isn’t just a technical detail. It defines your rights, your income and your career path. Misclassification can lead to missed benefits, unexpected tax bills and even legal disputes. So how can you protect yourself? 

Why misclassification matters 

Worker classification determines whether you’re treated as an employee or an independent contractor. 

In this edition of our LinkedIn newsletter, the Talent Blueprint, Dan Craddock, Associate Director for Outsourced Service Sales at Hays UK said: “If someone is wrongly classified, they may miss out on important protections such as holiday pay, pension contributions, sick leave and other statutory rights. 

“On the flip side, if a genuine contractor is incorrectly engaged as an employee, they may lose the flexibility and freedoms that come with being self-employed.” 

In short, misclassification impacts your financial wellbeing, work-life balance and long-term career prospects. 

Legal landscape: what’s changing? 

Governments across the globe are tightening regulations around contingent work. As an example, IR35 legislation in the UK has reshaped how contractors are taxed and protected. In the EU, the Platform Work Directive could mean that gig workers are presumed to be employees unless proven otherwise. 

Nick Williams, Chief Procurement Services Officer for Hays Enterprise Solutions, notes: “Compliance scrutiny has certainly intensified, with landmark legislation reshaping how organisations engage talent.” 

These changes mean that both employers and workers need to stay informed. What’s legal in one country may not be in another, and what worked last year might not be compliant today. 

The cultural impact of misclassification 

Beyond legal and financial implications, misclassification can affect how you’re treated at work. Contingent workers often miss out on training, incentives and even social events, which can lead to disengagement and a sense of exclusion. 

“Some of those subtle differences can be quite impactful over time if they’re not managed effectively,” says Shane Little, Managing Director for Hays Enterprise Solutions in APAC. 

Feeling like an outsider can affect your motivation, your performance and your reputation. That’s why it’s important to ensure your classification reflects your actual role and contributions. 

How to protect yourself from misclassification

Whether you’re new to contracting or a seasoned professional, here are four key steps to safeguard your career: 

1. Understand different models 

Are you better off as an independent contractor or working through an agency? Each model has its pros and cons, and varies depending on your location. Contractors may enjoy more freedom, but agency workers often receive more support and benefits. Seek guidance to understand what suits your goals and lifestyle. 

2. Ask questions early 

Before you sign a contract, clarify the terms. What are your responsibilities? How will you be paid? What benefits are included? Matt Hayes, Senior Director for Flexible Recruitment Solutions at Hays Hong Kong, advises: “It’s in the interest of any contingent worker to know as soon as possible what the terms and conditions of that contract are.” 

3. Review your contract carefully 

Make sure the language in your contract matches your expectations. Are you being paid for deliverables or time? Are you classified correctly? If anything seems unclear, ask for clarification before you begin work. 

4. Take action if you’re unhappy 

If the reality of your role doesn’t match your contract, don’t stay silent. Keep records of your work, including who directs your tasks and how you’re paid. Then seek an independent review or escalate your concerns through your agency or HR department. 

Your career, your control 

Understanding your classification is key to protecting your future. It affects not just your pay, but your professional identity and your ability to grow. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure that your work is recognised, rewarded and respected. 

Learn more about success in a contracting career and unlock your potential with our free Contractor Toolkit. 

We’ve all heard of a tech stack, the layers of software and tools that help businesses run smoothly. But have you ever considered a human skills stack?

In today’s AI-driven job market, technical skills alone aren’t enough for a jobseeker to stand out. Employers across many industries are increasingly looking for candidates who bring strong soft skills, or as we prefer to call them, human skills, to the table. These are the skills that make you adaptable, collaborative and effective in any workplace.

What is a human skills stack?

Your human skills stack, as discussed in a recent LinkedIn newsletter by Hays called The Talent Blueprint, is the combination of essential interpersonal and cognitive abilities that help you succeed at work.

You may see a human skills stack as a portfolio of your soft skills that compliment your overall abilities and capabilities in the workplace.

Top human skills employers want in 2025

Some of the most critical human skills to develop are:

  • Problem-solving – Your ability to find solutions to certain situations.
  • Communication – How well you come across in written or spoken communications, but also your body language.
  • Leadership – Your ability to inspire others and get results from them.
  • Adaptability – Your willingness to change gears when needed.
  • Emotional intelligence – How well you handle and manage your own emotions, whilst being aware of others’.

These aren’t just nice-to-haves anymore. They’re the skills that employers are struggling to find, and they’re increasingly becoming the differentiators in hiring decisions.

In our latest Salary Guide surveys, thousands of employees across the globe identified the following human skills as the most valued for career progression:

  • Ability to adapt to change
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Willingness to learn and upskill
Human skills to develop in 2025

You’ll notice a strong overlap with the skills employers say are missing in their organisations. This presents a golden opportunity for jobseekers to stand out in a competitive market.

How to build your human skills stack

Building your human skills doesn’t require formal qualifications. In fact, showing awareness and a willingness to practice can often be enough. Here are a few ways to strengthen your stack:

1. Communication

Marc Burrage, Managing Director of Hays Asia, shared 10 ways to improve communication skills, including:

  • Listening actively
  • Checking your body language
  • Projecting confidence
  • Knowing your audience

These skills are especially important if you’re aiming for leadership roles, where motivating others and resolving conflict are key.

2. Leadership and collaboration

Shane Little, Managing Director of Hays Enterprise Solutions APAC, advises candidates to highlight their role beyond technical tasks: “Perhaps you’re in an agile environment where you participate or even lead team groups and virtual meetings. These elements of your everyday can be important indicators to the human skills you possess.”

3. Problem-solving and adaptability

Volunteer for cross-functional projects, take on new challenges, and reflect on how you handle change. These experiences build resilience and show employers you’re ready for the future of work.

Showcasing your skills to employers

Once you’ve developed your human skills, it’s crucial to showcase them effectively, during the hiring process. Here’s some tips to help:

  • Use real examples in your CV and cover letter. It’s not enough to say “I’m a great communicator.” You need to prove it with real life examples.
  • Prepare for behavioural interviews with stories that demonstrate communication, leadership and adaptability.
  • Highlight transferable skills from volunteer work, side projects, or team initiatives.

For more tips on showcasing this skills during the application process, read our detailed blog.

Your stack is never finished

Human skills aren’t static – they grow with you. Whether through day-to-day interactions, feedback from colleagues, or online courses, there’s always room to improve.

Your human skills are what make you, you. In a world where AI can replicate technical tasks, your ability to connect, lead and adapt is your career advantage. So start building your human skills stack today, and keep refining it as you grow.

Additional content to help you

How to show your skills in a job application

What are people skills and why are they important?

5 ways to improve your collaboration skills

Download our CV Guide for free

While artificial intelligence (AI) may not take your job, you can’t ignore the growth of AI in the workplace. By not developing your skills today, you risk being less qualified than candidates with strong AI skills in the future.

Gen Z are now part of the workforce, adding further competition to a crowded job market. By the end of 2025, tech savvy Gen Z candidates will account for 27% of the workforce.  

In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of developing your AI skills sooner rather than later. We’ll also delve into developing your human skills alongside your technical abilities. Read on for our expert insight.  

What does AI in the work environment look like in 2025? 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more prevalent in the workplace than ever before. Our client data shows that 53% of companies are recommending the use of AI technology in their organisation. According to our Tech Talent Explorer survey the effects of AI is also being felt worldwide: 

  • 62% of tech professionals predict that AI will have the biggest impact on their work in 2025  
  • Only 47% feel confident and fully prepared for further advancements to AI systems  

Is AI putting jobs at risk?  

A US study by YouGov found that 56% of professionals feel that job opportunities will decrease because of AI. The equivalent UK survey found that 74% of professionals believe the adoption of AI tools will result in fewer jobs. The solution to stay relevant in the workplace is to upskill and reskill.  

Julia Cames, Hays CMO, explains: “In addition to learning outside work, this involves finding ways to retrain with employers. Just over half of workers who feel strongly about AI are getting the workplace skills training they need.” 

How can you develop your AI skills? 

Despite the increase in AI tools throughout the workplace, Hays Salary Guide data reveals that 43% of workers have yet to receive any training on AI from their employer. If you find yourself in the same position, don’t worry. Even without employer training, you can still begin your AI skills development.  

The three main strategies for improving AI skills include a combination of: 

  • Technical education 
  • Hands-on experience 
  • Staying up to date with industry trends 

Take an online course or boost your technical education 

Many online providers offer courses of varying levels. Think about how much you already know about AI and choose an option that suits you. Some options include: 

  • Google – Generative AI Certification Program: The ‘Generative AI Leader’ program is a first-of-its-kind credential.The program is designed to empower professionals to harness the potential of generative AI. 
  • Codeacademy – Intro to Generative AI: If you’re completely new to AI, this free course may be a good starting point. Beginners can dive into the different forms of generative AI and learn how to use AI technology. 
  • Amazon – Introduction to Generative AI – Art of the Possible: A free course from Amazon which provides an introduction to generative AI, its risks and benefits. 

Gain some helpful hands-on experience 

Across the globe, Hays surveys thousands of workers a year. We found that 25% aren’t using AI because they don’t see the benefit. A hands-on exercise may help to demonstrate the many uses of AI to even the biggest sceptics. Examples of hands-on learning include: 

  • Codeacademy – Learn How To Build Your Own GPT:  This is a one-hour course at an intermediate level. During the course, learners can build a Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) from scratch. You can also earn a certificate of completion to showcase your accomplishment on LinkedIn. 
  • Amazon – PartyRock: Learners are able to create and customize AI apps that have real-world capabilities to boost productivity. 

Keep up with current AI industry trends 

Being aware of AI trends can help you build an awareness of new developments in AI technology. You can then tailor your learning to meet the demands of predicted trends of the future and stay ahead of the curve. Stay up to date by: 

What happens when AI technology moves on? 

In AI-related fields, any new skills can become out of date in just two years. However, by developing your human skills, you’ll be able to prove your long-term value to a potential employer. Your personal attributes can be just as valuable, if not more, than the hard skills that you’ve learned.  

Are human skills that important to employers? 

The importance of human skills cannot be underestimated. Ninety-two per cent of talent acquisition professionals describe human skills as equally or more important than hard skills. Modern employers are valuing traits such as the ability to effectively communicate. human skills can often complement the technical benefits of AI.  

Which human skills are employers looking for? 

In 2025 the key human skills employers are looking for include:  

  • Emotional intelligence: Recognising your emotions and impact on others can help you foster strong relationships with colleagues. 
  • Resilience and adaptability: Proactively problem-solving, exploring new opportunities and staying positive can help you produce innovative ideas.  
  • Communication skills: Adapting your communication style to suit video meetings, messaging apps and email in remote and hybrid settings.  
  • Collaborative and interpersonal skills: Understanding the dynamics and working styles of team members can boost productivity and reduce conflict.  
  • Influence and leadership skills: Guiding and inspiring team members to achieve shared goals can help motivate everyone to succeed.  

How do you improve your human skills? 

Once you’ve chosen the human skills you’d like to work on, you can make a plan. There are many resources available for improving your human skills including watching seminars, listening to podcasts or reading. A step-by-step approach can also help you manage your progress, such as: 

  1. Work with a mentor or friend you trust: Meet regularly to talk through your challenges, successes and failures. 
  2. Practice your human skills: Implement your developing skills in the workplace. Challenge yourself and take on tasks outside your comfort zone.  
  3. Refine your human skills: Ask your boss or a colleague for honest feedback to ensure you’re making progress.  

Once you feel confident in your human skills, update your CV and cover letter to reflect your new strengths. Be ready to discuss in a job interview how you have developed your skills and to provide examples of the positive results. 

Combine your AI and human skill sets for success  

By developing your AI skills as well as your human skills you can demonstrate to employers that you are worth investing in. Aim to showcase that you can navigate advancements in technology and also become an integral part of the organisation. Then, you will be able to thrive in your career no matter how quickly AI technology may evolve.  

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