Professionals with advanced AI credentials in the US are securing promotions up to 3.5 years faster than their peers, according to research from Randstad analysing over 35 million global job postings. The study reveals that AI-fluent entry-level workers command significant salary premiums, with financial analysts earning 25% more and customer service representatives receiving 24% higher compensation. The US leads globally in requiring AI fluency across job functions, particularly in marketing, engineering and HR. However, severe talent shortages threaten progress. AI Solutions Leads face a 26.9% vacancy rate, whilst Machine Learning Engineer positions now take 53 days to fill, up from 23 days in 2022. Meanwhile, demand for human skills has surged, with job postings mentioning emotional intelligence up 173% and creativity rising 168%.

Randstad Digital and Google Cloud have deployed an AI solution called Forze Mirate for Forze Hydrogen Racing, a student motorsport team that faces 100% annual workforce turnover. The system uses Google Cloud's Gemini Enterprise to help onboard 50 to 60 new student engineers each year. Forze Mirate synthesises 18 years of engineering data—including specifications, CAD drawings and telemetry—into a conversational interface. Engineers can query the system in natural language and even upload photos to receive relevant technical specifications. The solution has reduced time-to-productivity for new engineers by up to three times and decreased reliance on alumni by 80%. Institutional knowledge retention has improved by 50%, ensuring engineering breakthroughs are preserved between generations. The platform is built on Google Cloud's secure infrastructure.

Randstad N.V. reported first-quarter results broadly in line with expectations, with statutory earnings of €1.66 per share matching analyst forecasts. Revenues of €5.5 billion came in 2.1% ahead of predictions. Following the results, 16 analysts now expect 2026 revenues of €23.1 billion, roughly unchanged from the last 12 months. However, statutory earnings per share forecasts were trimmed slightly to €1.98, down from €2.10 previously, representing a projected 26% increase year-on-year. The consensus price target held steady at €32.58, though individual analyst targets range widely from €21.00 to €60.00. Analysts expect Randstad's years of declining revenue to end, though growth is forecast to lag the wider industry's 3.7% annual rate.