Crisis of confidence in Australian professionals

Woman worried at work. | Newsreel
A new survey has found many Australian workers are overwhelmed by change in the workplace. | Photo: Goodboy Picture Company.

More than two thirds of Australian professionals are concerned by the pace of change in the workplace, according to a new survey.

The LinkedIn research found 67 percent of workers were overwhelmed by how quickly work was changing, with 63 percent searching for more guidance and support.

LinkedIn Career Expert Cayla Dengate said with constant changes in the workplace, such as how to use AI tools and adapting to hybrid work models, it was no surprise many professionals were worried.

Ms Dengate said it would be important for workers to stay informed, upskill and continuously learn.

“Taking these small steps will help workers build the confidence needed to thrive in this evolving environment. Try to embrace change with an open mind, be adaptable and take charge of your career development.”

She said the survey found the biggest workplace challenges workers currently faced included struggling to keep up with developing new skills (25 percent), advocating for personal needs with their managers, such as requesting flexible working arrangements or training (25 percent), and proving their value amid the rise of AI in the workplace (25 percent).

“LinkedIn data has also revealed a 123 percent increase in posts mentioning ‘flexible work” over the past two years, which continues to be top of mind as more companies evolve their work from home policies.”

Ms Dengate said most Australian professionals (58 percent) acknowledged that experience alone was no longer enough to help them navigate the changing workplace, with 38 percent of survey respondents saying continuous learning was critical in helping them stay ahead.