Upskill to Meet Talent Demands of Nearshoring: Voxy

Q: What are the greatest challenges companies face in upskilling their workforce, and how does the continuous emergence of new technologies help or detract from this goal?
A: Many companies are transitioning from traditional training methods, such as face-to-face language programs, which were once a regular practice. While there is a growing trend to incorporate AI into various aspects of business, companies in Mexico have proven resistant and prefer to rely on traditional face-to-face classes. Over the years, we have witnessed the significant benefits of leveraging technology during training. Companies that embrace technology can effectively manage their programs across different groups and see tangible results in performance outcomes as they advance. Looking ahead, incorporating generative AI into our products will further enhance the learning experience for both learners and teachers. This continued innovation will be key to driving future success.

Q: How is recognition of the importance of soft skills evolving, particularly as technology reshapes the requirements of job roles?
A: Investments in language training are becoming increasingly significant, as they enhance communication and overall performance. Companies are placing a high priority on durable, lifelong skills when evaluating talent and designing new training programs. The global talent shortage is impacting companies across various industries. In Mexico, for example, we have seen reports indicating that 65% of companies struggle to fill IT positions. The challenge extends beyond IT, affecting areas like sales, marketing, and finance. Given these challenges, companies are increasingly focusing on soft skills, or what we call “power skills.” According to Voxys' Global Benchmark survey, the key skills that are considered essential for future success include leadership, communication, language proficiency, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Q: What methods or tools does Voxy recommend for maintaining high levels of employee engagement throughout the upskilling process?
A: Skill mapping is key to identifying the skills employees need to develop and offer the right training that will allow them to advance in their careers. It is essential to understand where they are, what they need to achieve, and why reaching those goals is so critical. It is also important to ensure that we are aligning their training goals with business objectives by understanding what is expected from the employee and what the company aims to achieve.

When there is alignment between the individual’s goals and the company’s goals, the training plans set employees up for success and drive higher levels of engagement. It is essential to ensure that employees understand the benefits of these programs. They need to know why they are participating, how it will positively impact their day-to-day work, and how it will contribute to their future professional and personal growth. Setting realistic goals is also crucial. Voxy is proud of having built the most effective English training platform in the world. Studies have shown that our platform delivers learning outcomes faster than other methods, leading to better results in less time. It is important for employees to understand the amount of time needed to achieve their goals, ensuring they do not spend too much time or become burnt out during the process.

Q: What impact has Voxy had on the Mexican market and how do you expect demand to grow with the advent of nearshoring?
A: Over the past few years, Mexico has experienced an increase in foreign investment, which has led to job creation. As a result, companies will need to focus on upskilling their workforce. Recent studies indicate that only about 5% of the population in Mexico is fluent in English, making it critical to enhance employees' skills to meet the growing demands of multinational
corporations.

Besides preparing the current workforce through Learning & Development initiatives, there are
social projects we support to empower young talents to get ready for the new demands of the
job market. This is the case of Bécalos English Challenge, an educational program that supports young committed university students and teachers with a scholarship to learn English through our platform so that they can raise their English level and get better job opportunities in the future.

Q: As AI becomes increasingly capable of handling language-related tasks, such as translation and communication, how will language learning evolve?
A: AI has been a major topic across many industries, particularly those facing disruption and significant change. At Voxy, AI is a foundational element of the platform, as it allows us to personalize the learning experience to help individuals achieve their goals. This means aligning content that is relevant to users with the outcomes they need to reach. There is a significant difference between companies that use AI as a tool and those that effectively pair AI with a strong learning methodology to drive meaningful outcomes. While AI can assist with tasks like translations, especially for individuals with lower language needs, it falls short in areas critical for organizations, such as communication and other key skills. Therefore, language training programs remain as important as ever. Their importance may even grow as communication skills and other competencies become increasingly vital for employees in the long term.

Many companies are beginning to evolve their approach to AI. For example, we used to rely on teachers to grade assessments, but now AI can handle that task. However, teachers will not be replaced by AI. While AI will certainly develop new capabilities, it will not replace the core principles that are essential for delivering effective learning outcomes.

Q: How does Voxy tailor its training programs to meet the specific needs of different roles within an organization?
A: Voxy stands apart by its ability to truly personalize the experience for each learner and align the training programs with their goals. For example, an accountant at a technology company will have a different flow of content and experiences compared to someone in customer support or procurement at a manufacturing company.

When customers engage with Voxy, they understand that we are reinforcing critical skills required for successful job performance. One of the keys to successful learning outcomes is the level of engagement employees experience throughout the process. We approach our relationships with clients as partnerships, working closely to identify their needs and develop tailored plans. This consultative approach builds trust and confidence, ensuring that the programs we create are in the best interest of all involved.

Q: What are the specific short-term goals that Voxy aims to achieve before the end of 2024?
A: Our commitment to customers and partners around the world is to continue delivering best- in-class learning outcomes that enable employees and organizations to achieve their goals. Part of that commitment involves continued investment in our product. Over the last few years, we have significantly expanded our team and have a number of exciting product releases planned for the second half of this year. Growth remains one of our core company goals, and we are particularly excited for Mexico to continue to be one of our key markets.

Voxy, founded in 2010, is a flexible, digital English-language learning solution used by over 4 million learners and hundreds of corporate clients around the world.