The fear of being obsolete (FOBO) is becoming a global issue. With AI and automation reshaping the job industry across various sectors, many employees feel their skills might soon become outdated and they may lose their jobs. But India is looking at it differently.

According to the ETS Human Progress Report 2025, as the job market becomes more competitive, the value placed on 'Evidential Currency' -- credentials and real-time assessments of skills -- continues to rise, with 60% of all employees experiencing FOBO.

Gen Z professionals are the most anxious -- 65% fear being replaced by AI and automation. But instead of giving in to uncertainty, they are almost leading the way in upskilling and earning new credentials. India has a similar stance.

The ETS report shows that 80% of Indians say they "already developed new skills by using AI tools (eg, ChatGPT, Google Gemini)." This is much higher than the global average of 61%. So, not only are Indians upskilling but they are using AI to do so. Such a stance is likely to drive a surge in AI-related upskilling efforts across the nation.

WORKERS KNOW THEY MUST ADAPT

AI is no longer just for tech experts. From finance to healthcare, AI is influencing almost every sector. As per a McKinsey 2024 report, by 2030, up to 27% of current working hours in Europe and 30% in the US could be automated through AI.

There has also been a 33% rise in the demand for AI skills across 14 countries, with major shortages in advanced IT, programming, and critical thinking skills.

The job market is evolving very rapidly with traditional jobs disappearing and AI-driven jobs growing. Employees across the world know that if they do not develop their skills and adapt to this pace, they will be left behind.

As per the ETS Human Progress 2025 report, 88% respondents agree that continuous learning is essential to succeed in today’s society. Also, 67% have gotten at least one skill credential to stay relevant -- 72% GenZ and 76% Millennials report the same. This shows that employees are actively trying ways to future-proof their careers.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED TO NOT GET LEFT BEHIND?

The job market now places dual emphasis on technical and durable skills, "especially AI literacy combined with human capabilities like creativity and communication."

Among respondents, a large chunk noted these skills as vital for staying competitive in the job market -- AI/digital literacy (33% selected), creativity (26% selected) and communication (23% selected).