New data from Udemy and Indeed highlights a growing upskilling gap between employers and workers

As artificial intelligence reshapes how work gets done, a new joint study from Udemy and Indeed reveals a widening disconnect between how employers hire and how workers prepare for the future. While professionals are increasingly investing in skills they believe will matter tomorrow, many organizations remain focused on filling immediate roles—often overlooking the capabilities that will define long-term competitiveness.

The report, titled The Future-Proofing Instinct, draws on job posting data from Indeed and learning behavior from Udemy Business across Australia, India, the UK, and the US between September 2023 and September 2025. Together, the datasets offer a rare dual perspective on the labor market: what employers are asking for today, and what workers are betting on for the future.

At the heart of the findings is a striking imbalance around AI. Despite the technology dominating headlines and boardroom agendas, only 4% of job listings across the four countries explicitly ...