That – Online | March 18, 2025
The rise of Generator AI (Genai) is shaking workplaces around the world. South Africa is no exception. As businesses adapt to new ways of working, job seekers are rethinking their careers, reskilling and negotiating better opportunities.
The PNET whitepaper “Navigating the changing job preferences of South Africa during the genai era” explores how AI is changing employment opportunities, skills demands and workplace expectations for both employees and employers.
Supported by insights from the Decode Global Talent Series. It is one of the world's largest workforce studies, including over 150,000 participants worldwide, and includes over 7,000 South Africans – the white paper highlights important trends that define the future of work.
What is changing in the SA job market?
South Africa is experiencing a talented paradox. Despite high unemployment, many companies struggle to find candidates with the right skills, especially in industries such as technology, engineering and healthcare.
This disconnection is further complicated by the digital access gap, limiting the ability of many job seekers to increase and meet market demand.
At the same time, experts with skills in demand recognize their value. 66% of South African workers say they feel confident negotiating their duties, especially in areas such as IT, finance and healthcare, where there is a strong competition for skilled talent.
Meanwhile, AI-driven tools are becoming part of everyday work. Already, 38% of South African experts regularly use Genai to assist with tasks like code, data analysis, content creation, and more, indicating an expansion of AI integration across the industry.
A small percentage (6%) believe that AI will completely replace jobs, almost half (43% of workers) expect high-end skills to stay competitive in the progressive job market.
This means that adaptability and continuous learning are as important as traditional qualifications.
Employers also feel pressure to adapt. To attract and retain top talent in an AI-driven workplace, you need more than a competitive salary. It also includes job safety, career growth opportunities, and a strong workplace culture.
Companies that do not evolve risk losing valuable employees in companies that are actively investing in training, technology and employee well-being.
What does this mean for an employer?
According to the white paper, companies in South Africa cannot afford to sit as AI forms the workplace.
To stay competitive, companies need to invest in skill development, embrace AI-driven efficiency, and ensure that their workplace culture aligns with the expectations of new employees.
The future of work is not just about technology, but also about how businesses and employees navigate these changes.
“Disclaimer – the views and opinions expressed in this article are the views of the author and are not necessarily those of the Bee Room.”
