Industry acknowledges AI talent crisis

September 28, 2026 Presented by Entry-level talent is challenged by AI in the workforce. What are some of the solutions for that cohort? This moment is one that requires new internal training programs for current employees — and, as some employers admitted at Digiday Media’s AI Marketing Strategies event hosted last week, actively discourages hiring entry-level talent. Advertisement TOP STORY The Business of AI ‘Not hiring’ entry-level talent: Industry acknowledges runaway crisis brought on by introducing AI to the workforce Entry-level talent is challenged by AI in the workforce. What are some of the solutions for that cohort? OTHER THINGS TO KNOW Join us Oct. 13 for Digiday Media Strategies London, bringing together senior publishing executives from across the UK and EU for candid conversations, valuable connections and actionable insights. Connect one-on-one in 6-minute meetings, swap ideas in collaborative town halls and network over coffee, bowling and cocktails.  As they navigate the effects of AI search, 60% of publishers said acquiring new subscribers is the main focus of their company’s subscription strategy, according to a new survey from Digiday and Braze. Partner insights from Braze. Under growing pressure to prove marketing performance, many brands are taking a closer look at whether affiliate marketing is delivering the incremental growth it promises. Partner insights from Bluepear. A MESSAGE FROM T-MOBILE ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS Translate mobile signals into real-world intelligence Turn everyday mobile engagement into media that actually connects with carrier data from T-Mobile Advertising Solutions. The T-Mobile network reaches roughly one in three Americans, resulting in privacy-conscious data that reflects the behavioral patterns of real people, not a modeled, fragmented guess. This means marketers can build and activate relevant audiences with a unified strategy across digital and physical media, driving real business outcomes. Learn more ahead of Advertising Week New York. Get started MARKETING Member exclusive Digiday Publishing Summit September 2026 Recap: How publishers are rebuilding for the post-search era Execs at DPS described how they’re preparing for a post-search era by prioritizing direct audiences, diversified revenue and AI strategies. Member exclusive Media Buying Briefing: Stagwell's chief AI officer explains why Palantir differentiates its data platform from competitors John Kahan explains how Palantir lets clients control their own data destiny, and what differential privacy means as a differentiator. PARTNER INSIGHTS FROM AFFINITY GLOBAL Virtual event: Why CTV-to-conversion is the new marketing reality On Oct. 14 at 10 a.m. ET, join this webinar to learn how CTV has matured into a full-funnel marketing engine and performance channel. PARTNER INSIGHTS FROM AUDACY Podcast measurement is becoming more sophisticated In the early days, podcast measurement was basically the honor system. Now tools such as pixel-based attribution, brand lift studies and post-purchase surveys make podcast campaigns actually measurable. Advertisement ICYMI Work Life Rethinking entry-level hiring in the age of AI: A conversation with Amazon's Diana Godwin Godwin, general manager of AWS Certifications at Amazon Web Services, has some insight on how certifications are bridging the skills gap. PARTNER INSIGHTS FROM RAPTIVE Publisher revenue strategies: Building a more responsive and resilient operating model Join this webinar on Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. ET to learn how leading media companies are strengthening performance today while creating the flexibility to adapt to what comes next. Member exclusive Media Buying Briefing: Flex workforce, fringe benefits are key to navigating the talent crisis The Great Resignation is leaving talent shortages across many industries, but media is perhaps seeing the sharp end of this – especially at agencies. The Business of AI Academia-industry partnership eyes talent development in AI-centric creative economy For leaders managing creative teams or seeking out talent in fields including media, entertainment, fashion and design, the initiative promises critical AI insights. Written by Jim Cooper and Sara Jerde Were you forwarded this email? Sign up to get it daily. Advertise | Digiday+ | Events | Awards Update your email | Unsubscribe | Privacy policy