AI is making us more valuable: What PwC's 2025 Jobs Barometer means for the future of work

In a world filled with questions about AI's impact on jobs, PwC's latest Global AI Jobs Barometer offers a refreshing perspective. AI is not here to replace us, it's here to elevate us. This has been a common theme across a number of reports I've blogged about.

Drawing from nearly a billion job ads across six continents, the 2025 report paints a clear picture of how AI is transforming the workplace. Let's break down the most compelling findings and what they mean for individuals and businesses alike.

AI boosts productivity when used wisely

Industries that have embraced AI are seeing employee productivity rise sharply. These sectors reported three times higher growth in revenue per employee than those less exposed to AI.

This suggests AI isn't just another efficiency tool, it's a value engine. But to harness its potential, companies need to think beyond automation and towards transformation.

Skills are changing, and fast

In AI-exposed roles, the required skill sets are evolving 66% faster than in other occupations. Take financial analysis, for example. Their job now demands not just financial literacy but also skills like prompt engineering (which is just tech bro words for communication) and AI model interpretation.

This shift highlights a growing need for ongoing training and upskilling. Employers will need to keep pace with these changes or risk falling behind.

AI roles command higher pay

One of the most eye-catching stats? Staff with AI skills are earning a 56% wage premium over their peers in the same role without AI expertise. That's more than double last year's figure of 25%.

It's a strong sign that companies are willing to pay for AI talent, and that investing in your own AI literacy could have serious returns.

Job growth is happening, even in automatable roles

Despite fears about job losses, employment is growing across AI-exposed occupations. Even roles that are considered highly automatable, like administrative support or logistics, are seeing gains in both hiring and wages.

Why? Because AI is augmenting these roles, making them more complex and, paradoxically, more human. Go figure. They now require higher-level decision making and creativity.

AI adoption is universal

Here's a surprise: 100% of industries are increasing their use of AI, including traditionally tech-averse fields like mining, construction, and agriculture. AI is no longer the domain of software developers, it's becoming the cornerstone of every sector.

What this means for business

PwC outlines five key takeaways for leaders:

1. Use AI to transform your entire business, not just isolated functions.

2. See AI as a growth tool, not just a way to cut costs.

3. Embrace agentic AI to unlock productivity at scale.

4. Invest in upskilling your workforce to stay competitive.

5. Build trust in AI through responsible and transparent deployment.

   
   

Final thought

The future of work is not about AI replacing humans, it's about AI making us better at what we do. Companies that view AI as a partner, not a threat, will be the ones that thrive in this era.

For those willing to adapt, the future looks full of opportunity.

At Paadia Technology, we help leaders get this right

If your organisation is exploring how to harness AI for growth and innovation, now is the time to start the conversation. We'll help you navigate this evolving landscape, translating AI potential into practical, people focused outcomes. The tools are here. The opportunity is real. The next step is yours.