Event Overview and AI’s Impact on Recruitment Trends
The HUFLIT Career Fair 2026, organized by the Ho Chi Minh City University of Foreign Languages and Information Technology (HUFLIT), in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Student Cultural and Sports Center and 24h Career Company, drew over 5,000 students to its venue on April 1. The event featured 2,900 job opportunities across various industries, highlighting the growing demand for skilled graduates in Vietnam’s evolving labor market. This year’s fair emphasized the intersection of technological advancements and workforce needs, with many employers expressing interest in candidates who can adapt to rapid changes driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
AI’s role in reshaping job markets has sparked concerns among students and professionals alike. Nguyen Thi Kim Cuc, Director of the Corporate Clients Department at 24h Career Company, noted that many students are anxious about the potential of AI to replace human labor. However, she highlighted that AI is more likely to automate repetitive tasks rather than eliminate the need for human expertise. “Companies still require individuals who can think creatively, solve complex problems, and engage in meaningful interactions,” she explained, underscoring the enduring value of human skills in sectors like business, innovation, and customer service.
The fair’s data also revealed a 25-35% increase in recruitment demand compared to the previous year, according to Ms. Cuc. This growth reflects the resilience of the job market despite technological disruptions. She emphasized that while AI may streamline operations, it cannot replicate the emotional intelligence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities that humans bring to the workplace. “Employers are actively seeking candidates who can navigate dynamic environments and contribute to strategic decision-making,” she added, reinforcing the event’s focus on preparing students for future challenges.
Recruitment Needs of Key Employers and Salary Expectations
Several prominent companies showcased their hiring needs at the fair, with a particular emphasis on roles requiring language proficiency and technical skills. Transcosmos Vietnam, a leading customer service provider, reported a monthly demand for 300-400 employees in Vietnamese, English, Korean, and Japanese-speaking roles. The company offered a base salary of 15-20 million VND per month, with additional training to equip new hires with the necessary tools for success. “Our focus is on candidates who excel in communication and problem-solving,” said Nguyen Le Hoang Cam, Deputy Director of Recruitment at Transcosmos Vietnam. “AI cannot replace the human touch in customer interactions, which is why we prioritize language skills and emotional intelligence.”
MISA, a major software development company, also highlighted its recruitment goals, aiming to hire 50-70 employees monthly. The firm sought graduates in economics, business management, and accounting, offering a starting salary of 9 million VND per month. Employees in roles requiring performance metrics (KPIs) saw salary increases after three months, while those in non-KPI positions received raises after six months. For specialized roles like software implementation, candidates with one year of experience could negotiate higher salaries. “Our hiring process emphasizes adaptability and a willingness to learn,” said Nguyen Thi Na, Head of Human Resources at MISA. “In a rapidly changing technological landscape, the ability to embrace new tools and processes is crucial for long-term success.”
The fair also revealed a growing trend of employers prioritizing soft skills over technical expertise. Companies like Transcosmos and MISA emphasized the importance of resilience, teamwork, and a proactive attitude. “We are looking for candidates who can thrive in high-pressure environments and continuously improve their skills,” Ms. Cam noted. This shift underscores the need for students to develop a well-rounded skill set, combining technical knowledge with emotional intelligence and adaptability to remain competitive in the job market.
Balancing Technical Expertise and Human Skills in the Modern Workplace
The fair’s discussions highlighted the critical balance between technical proficiency and human-centric competencies. Experts stressed that while AI and automation are reshaping industries, the demand for human skills such as creativity, empathy, and leadership remains strong. Nguyen Thi Kim Cuc reiterated that companies are investing in training programs to help employees leverage technology while maintaining their unique value. “The future of work requires individuals who can integrate AI into their workflows without being replaced by it,” she said, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and innovation.
Students attending the fair were encouraged to align their career goals with the evolving demands of the labor market. Many expressed interest in roles that combine technical skills with interpersonal abilities, such as data analysis, project management, and customer service. “I want to work in a field where I can use my language skills while contributing to meaningful projects,” said one student, reflecting the broader sentiment among participants. The fair’s interactive sessions allowed students to engage directly with recruiters, gaining insights into industry trends and the specific qualifications employers seek.
The event also addressed the challenges of job market saturation and frequent job changes. Ms. Cuc noted that many young professionals face difficulties in securing stable employment due to high turnover rates. “Employers are constantly searching for candidates who can commit to long-term growth,” she said. To address this, companies are increasingly offering structured onboarding programs and mentorship opportunities to retain talent. These efforts signal a shift toward creating more sustainable career paths for graduates, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce.
Conclusion
The fair’s discussions highlighted the critical balance between technical proficiency and human-centric competencies. Experts stressed that while AI and automation are reshaping industries, the demand for human skills such as creativity, empathy, and leadership remains strong. Nguyen Thi Kim Cuc reiterated that companies are investing in training programs to help employees leverage technology while maintaining their unique value. “The future of work requires individuals who can integrate AI into their workflows without being replaced by it,” she said, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and innovation.
Students attending the fair were encouraged to align their career goals with the evolving demands of the labor market. Many expressed interest in roles that combine technical skills with interpersonal abilities, such as data analysis, project management, and customer service. “I want to work in a field where I can use my language skills while contributing to meaningful projects,” said one student, reflecting the broader sentiment among participants. The fair’s interactive sessions allowed students to engage directly with recruiters, gaining insights into industry trends and the specific qualifications employers seek.
The event also addressed the challenges of job market saturation and frequent job changes. Ms. Cuc noted that many young professionals face difficulties in securing stable employment due to high turnover rates. “Employers are constantly searching for candidates who can commit to long-term growth,” she said. To address this, companies are increasingly offering structured onboarding programs and mentorship opportunities to retain talent. These efforts signal a shift toward creating more sustainable career paths for graduates, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce.
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