Skills-based careers thanks to AI

In this digital world, DHL believes it’s incredibly important to lead by example in excellence and how employees adapt to this change. Today, everything is changing rapidly, and acquiring new skills is becoming increasingly strategic in the workplace. DHL has therefore turned to AI to align its skills with the company’s future challenges.

Much of DHL’s talent strategy for 2025 involves identifying the skills present within the team today and identifying potential skills that will be relevant tomorrow. One of the biggest challenges in achieving this goal is establishing a skills ontology that reflects the differences between back-office and front-line roles, such as parcel handling and delivery. And that’s where AI comes in.

The results

A structured career plan.

In addition to providing opportunities that meet the expectations of its employees, DHL also seeks to enable them to continuously monitor their career development, whether it is planning future roles or examining suggestions for skill development.

Millions of euros saved on external recruitment costs.

With employees now empowered to plan for their future at DHL, fewer are leaving and the need for external recruitment is reduced. In fact, DHL expects to reduce external recruitment resources by more than 10%, saving millions of dollars.

More visibility for internal recruiters.

DHL gives its recruiters greater visibility into internal talent pools, as they don’t just look at applications received. This allows employees to make themselves known if they’re interested in new challenges, and recruiters can see what’s available without actively applying.

Talent capture and developer.

DHL wants its employees to grow and for the process to be positive. Restructuring a team and department can be challenging at first, but in the long run, it helps keep employees motivated, improves their experience, and increases the company’s overall efficiency.

Reason for being.

Thanks to AI and Cornerstone, employees will be motivated and have a sense of purpose in their workplace, which is one of the most sought-after aspects of business today.

Addressing skills gaps.

From an HR perspective, AI allows DHL to identify skill gaps that go unnoticed before becoming real problems. This allows the company to better anticipate the future and, as a result, pursue sustainable business in the long term.