Core Insights - The Upwork Monthly Hiring Report for November 2025 highlights a growing demand for human-centered skills as businesses scale AI systems, with 39% of companies identifying skill gaps as a top challenge heading into 2026 [1][2][8] Hiring Trends - Quality assurance testing increased by 19% month-over-month, indicating businesses are adding human capacity to enhance confidence in digital and AI system adoption [2][6] - There is a notable rise in demand for communication and creative skills, particularly a 48% increase in language tutoring and interpretation, as companies seek to apply a human touch to their projects [3][6] - Hiring in marketing and e-commerce continues to grow as businesses prepare for the holiday season, with steady demand for talent to support marketing strategies and e-commerce infrastructure [4][6] In-Demand Skills - The top AI-enabled skills in November 2025 include: - Quality assurance testing (19% growth) - AI & machine learning (16% growth) - Language tutoring & interpretation (48% growth) - Audio & music production (20% growth) - Photography (14% growth) [6][7] - 85% of businesses report that digital fluency and AI literacy skills are becoming increasingly important [6] Future Hiring Plans - 40% of businesses plan to hire independent digital marketing professionals in the next three months, reflecting a strategic focus on enhancing marketing capabilities [6][8]