Robert Half survey highlights skills gap for early career talent
Early career professionals entering the workforce in 2026 will need more than just familiarity with artificial intelligence tools to stand out, with experienced workers emphasizing the continued importance of foundational workplace habits, communication skills, and long-term career thinking.
According to a new survey by Robert Half Canada, among 1,005 employed professionals across Canada, 40% reported job candidates should be prepared to demonstrate knowledge of AI tools when applying for roles.
The research likewise suggests that AI literacy alone is no longer enough to distinguish new workers, especially as employers place growing value on judgment, accountability, and interpersonal skills. The survey also found that 36% of respondents cautioned against using AI in ways that exaggerate skills or experience.
Robert Half share the areas where early career workers most need guidance are rooted in everyday professional behaviour. Survey respondents identified time management and punctuality as the top concern, cited by 71%, followed by communication and responsiveness at 51%, and effective meeting participation at 49%. Another 31% said new workers need support in reviewing and refining AI-generated work to ensure accuracy.
“AI skills are quickly becoming table stakes in today’s workforce,” said Koula Vasilopoulos, senior managing director at Robert Half Canada. “What truly sets early career professionals apart, however, is their ability to think critically, make sound decisions, and take ownership of outcomes.”
The findings also point to how young professionals should evaluate career opportunities. Eighty per cent of respondents said new workers should assess jobs based on long-term potential, while 68% recommended being open to in-office work as a way to speed up learning and build stronger workplace relationships.
Vasilopoulos said employers do not expect people starting out to have all the answers immediately, but they do want to see a willingness to learn and adapt. “No one expects someone starting out to have all the answers on day one,” she said. “What makes a difference is showing genuine curiosity, understanding professionalism, and being intentional about building skills and relationships over time.”
Robert Half added that employers are not necessarily looking for deep technical expertise in AI from entry-level hires. Instead, they want workers to understand how to use such tools responsibly, recognize their limitations, and remain accountable for the final output. The firm said the broader lesson for the class of 2026 is that while digital fluency is increasingly expected, human skills remain central to long-term career success.
