‘AI isn’t about fewer jobs, but newer jobs’: LinkedIn’s Ruchee Anand at Talent Connect India

The flagship event of LinkedIn showcased India’s growing importance in the global talent landscape. The event has been happening in different countries over the years, and is known for bringing together HR professionals and talent acquisition heads under one roof. During the conversation, Anand shared some valuable insights into LinkedIn’s evolution as a platform that fosters career development, some emerging trends in the Indian job market, and how AI has been reshaping the employment landscape.

Speaking about the event, Anand said, “Talent Connect is happening in India for the first time. This is our global flagship event, which we have been doing for over a decade globally in the US and recently in Sydney and Singapore. For us, it is important that we continue to have this community coming together, as there is a lot of knowledge sharing.” 

Beyond job matching

Over the years, LinkedIn has metamorphosed into a digital platform that focuses on holistic career development. It is no longer about job placements and has moved on to become a venue for engaging conversations that shape careers. Considering the competitive job market, when asked about this shift, Anand explained that humanising careers is at the core of LinkedIn’s ethos.

“Globally, LinkedIn has over a billion members, with more than 145 million in India. We see each of our members as individuals with unique strengths and skills. What’s happening in the job market today is a significant shift in required skills. Even if someone isn’t changing jobs, their role is evolving,” she said. 

Anand elaborated that data from LinkedIn shows that skills for the same roles have changed by about 30 per cent since 2015. This shift, according to her, is expected to reach 64 per cent by 2030. “Humanising and contextualising career growth is critical. Our focus is not just on job placement but on creating a support system that helps professionals navigate these changes, whether they are staying in their current roles or pivoting to new ones,” she said.

Handholding users in the AI era

With rapid advancements in AI came opportunities and woes. Given LinkedIn’s scale, when asked how the platform addresses apprehensions and reassures users that AI is something to embrace rather than fear, the executive shared that trust was integral to everything about the platform. “Trust is at the core of everything we do—trust in technology, trust in talent, and trust in our platform itself. Ensuring that LinkedIn remains a safe and trusted space for our members is our top priority.”

Anand, while acknowledging the fear owing to change, asserted that the platform’s focus was more on supporting its members in adapting. The leadership coach shared that the key is to ensure that they have the skills and tools that they need to traverse through this transition with confidence. “To give you an example—AI isn’t about fewer jobs; it’s about newer jobs. The workforce is evolving, and that’s why LinkedIn is integrating learning into the flow of work. One of the ways we’re doing this is through AI-powered personalised learning coaches. Imagine having a coach tailored to your unique abilities, helping you upskill at scale,” said Anand.

India in the AI landscape

When asked about India-specific trends, the executive shared an optimistic view. “In the last two years, we’ve seen rising adoption of AI within every organisation in different ways and forms. And, India is really embracing that to a large extent,” she observed.

Anand shared that LinkedIn data indicates how Indian professionals are eager to upskill themselves in this area. “We see AI skills penetration in India being high. We see learners’ appetite. In fact, India sees 2x more learning hours than globally.”

According to her, this enthusiasm creates a competitive advantage for the Indian workforce. “We always will have this advantage of the talent that we have in India. And I think both organisations and people recognise that,” said Anand.

Messages for leaders and job seekers

Towards the end of the interaction, Anand shared her tips for organisational leaders and job seekers. For leaders, she emphasised the need to foster an environment that enables change, adoption, and growth. 

On the other hand, while stating that an increasing number of Indian professionals are already using AI tools at work independently, Anand shared a simple ABC framework. 

“A: Have an authentic profile. Your story is your strength.

B: Build your skills. Today, it’s all about transferable skills.

C: Connect with your purpose; connect with people. Leverage the network.

Today, it’s not about just having one career for your lifetime, but it’s about you having a lifetime of careers” she said.