Professional experience alone is no longer enough: 70 percent of Germans are overwhelmed at work - job and career in danger?

Today, the world of work is moving at an unprecedented pace. New technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and remote work, are revolutionizing the way we work. This transformation not only brings numerous advantages, but also presents employees with new challenges. According to a recent survey, around 70 percent of employees in Germany feel overwhelmed by the rapid changes in the world of work. Young generations in particular, such as Gen Z and Millennials, fear losing touch with their careers.

The dynamics of change: causes and effects

A central cause of the feeling of being overwhelmed is the speed at which the world of work is changing. While new technologies used to be introduced gradually, today's innovations require rapid adaptation. This rapid dynamic means that traditional career models and requirements are being put to the test. In many cases, professional experience alone is no longer enough to be successful. The survey shows that 48 percent of those surveyed are aware of this: They recognize that professional experience alone is no longer enough to advance in the modern working world.

The challenge of remote work: A new way of working together

Remote work has become an integral part of the working world, but not without its challenges. One in three employees say that working from home causes difficulties. Communication and collaboration in particular suffer from the spatial distance. A quarter of respondents report that the hybrid work setting makes it difficult to communicate efficiently. Meetings that used to take place in the office are shifting to virtual space, which brings not only technical but also social challenges. Trust, team spirit and spontaneous exchanges are harder to maintain.

Especially when it comes to creative tasks or problem solving, there is often a lack of direct exchange that allows ideas and solutions to emerge more quickly. To create a balance here, many companies rely on digital tools, but not all employees feel confident using these tools.

Artificial intelligence: opportunity and uncertainty at the same time

Another central topic is the integration of artificial intelligence into everyday work. While AI makes numerous processes more efficient and automates repetitive tasks, it creates uncertainty for many employees. 30 percent of those surveyed would like to use AI in their work, but feel uncertain about using this new technology. This uncertainty is often due to a lack of knowledge about how AI works and its capabilities.

AI offers numerous advantages: It can automate routine tasks and give employees more time for creative and strategic tasks. At the same time, it enables better data analysis and helps companies make informed decisions. Nevertheless, clear guidelines and training courses are needed so that employees can use the potential of AI without feeling overwhelmed. Here, companies are obliged to provide their employees with the necessary training and further education.

The value of further training in a digital working world

In order to master the challenges of digital transformation, continuous learning is essential. A third of employees emphasize the importance of further training. Changing requirements require new skills that are not always covered by previous training. It's not just about technical skills, but also about so-called “soft skills” such as adaptability, strong communication skills and personal responsibility.

Many employees recognize the value of training and are investing in their skills to survive in the digital age. Over 58 percent resort to external training to expand their knowledge. Employers should support this by promoting a learning culture that offers employees the time and resources for further training. In this way, they create a win-win situation: The employees develop further and bring new knowledge into the company, which also benefits the employer.

The role of employers: Creating a learning culture

Given the rapid pace of change, employers must play an active role in supporting their employees' upskilling. But currently 28 percent of employees have no time for further training. This is worrying because without sufficient skills, workers find it difficult to keep up with developments. To counteract this, employers are asked to establish and promote a culture of continuous learning.

Creating a learning culture means not just offering occasional training, but systematically creating opportunities for learning. These include regular workshops, access to online courses and mentor programs that promote knowledge transfer within the company. Employees who are continually supported feel valued and more engaged, which also impacts their productivity and satisfaction.

Generations in Transition: Different Perspectives

While younger generations such as Gen Z and Millennials feel strongly influenced by the rapid development of the world of work, older workers perceive this change differently. Almost half of the younger generations fear falling behind in their careers if they don't adapt quickly enough. Older generations, on the other hand, appear more relaxed. Only a third of 45 to 54 year olds and a quarter of those over 55 share this concern.

This difference can be partly explained by the fact that older workers have already established their careers and face fewer uncertainties. Young employees, on the other hand, are often at the beginning of their professional careers and have to prove themselves in a drastically changed environment. The challenge for companies is to cater to both groups and offer training opportunities and support tailored to their specific needs.

Flexibility as the key to future viability

A central feature of the modern working world is flexibility. Not only work locations, but also working hours and models are becoming increasingly more flexible. However, this flexibility requires a high degree of self-organization and personal responsibility from employees. While these skills are well developed for some, others find it difficult to adapt to these new conditions.

The balance between freedom and responsibility must be designed individually and company-specifically. Here it is important to create clear rules and structures that meet both the needs of the employees and the goals of the company. Flexibility can only be successful if companies and employees have the necessary skills to use this freedom productively.

The future of work: A balancing act between technology and humanity

Integrating technology and making working models more flexible are important steps in meeting the requirements of the modern working world. Nevertheless, people must not lose focus. Too many changes in a short period of time can lead to stress and overwhelm, as the survey results show. Employers are required to strike a balance and ensure that technologies such as AI do not lead to overwork of employees, but rather serve as tools to support and increase efficiency.

Together into the future

The working world of the future is full of challenges and opportunities. Employers and employees must work together to make change successful. Open communication, continuous training and a flexible work culture are crucial to meeting the demands of the modern working world. By actively supporting their employees, companies not only create a positive work environment, but also the foundation for long-term success. Only together can the balancing act between technological progress and human work culture be successful - for a working world that is sustainable and enriching for everyone involved.

A new study by LinkedIn shows that 70 percent of German employees feel overwhelmed by the rapid change in the world of work. This rapid change is primarily characterized by technological developments such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation and the increase in remote and hybrid working models. Younger generations such as Generation Z and Millennials, who fear being left behind in their careers, are particularly affected.

Main reasons for excessive demands

1. Remote work and home office

Around 30 percent of those surveyed find working from home particularly challenging. Many report difficulties with productivity and efficient communication within the team. Hybrid work models have resulted in 25 percent of workers feeling their communication skills have deteriorated, making collaboration more difficult.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Around 26 percent of those surveyed feel unsafe when dealing with AI technologies. Although many workers see AI as useful in their work, they often lack the skills needed to use this technology effectively. This leads to an increased need for further training.

3. Fear of losing professional connections

Almost half of Millennials (49 percent) and 46 percent of Generation Z fear falling behind due to rapid technological change. In contrast, older generations are less worried: only 34 percent of those aged 45 to 54 and 23 percent of those over 55 share these fears.

Solutions

Many employees realize that professional experience alone is no longer enough to be successful in the modern working world. Around 33 percent emphasize the need for ongoing training in order to meet the requirements. Employers are also required to promote a culture of continuous learning and give their employees time for further training. This is crucial so that both companies and employees remain competitive in the long term.

The study shows that the challenges of digital change – especially remote work and AI – are overwhelming many German employees. An increased focus on further training and adaptability is necessary to successfully master this change.

More about it here:

• Fear and uncertainty in the world of work – 70% overwhelmed: AI, hybrid working models, home office and professional backlog