The most in-demand AI skills in the U.K. include AI content creation, ChatGPT, AI chatbot building, proficiency with the AI image generator Midjourney, and AI image processing. Among the professions benefitting most from AI skills are lawyers, with employers willing to pay a 27% premium for those with AI skills, and database designers and administrators, who can command a 58% premium3.
AI skills are scarce among full-time U.K. employees due to a combination of factors, including high workloads preventing upskilling, lack of budget for training and recruitment, and teams working in silos. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancement demands constant adaptation, making it difficult for employees to keep up with the latest AI skills. This has led to a high demand for specialized AI skills, with companies willing to offer higher wages to attract and retain talent in this field.
The most lacking AI skill in the U.K. workforce is AI, cited by 32% of respondents in Fiverr's 2024 U.K. Workforce Index. This skill is in high demand for areas such as natural language processing, AI content creation, and chatbot development. Other in-demand AI skills include AI chatbot building, proficiency with the AI image generator Midjourney, and AI image processing.