CodeSignal, a tech assessment platform, has expanded its offerings by launching a suite of soft skill courses powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This move aims to democratize access to executive coaching, traditionally reserved for top executives, and make it available to a broader audience.

The platform, which introduced AI-assisted learning for technical subjects last year, has created a practice and learning stack to provide users with personalized feedback and coaching. According to Tigran Solyan, CEO of CodeSignal, the company saw an opportunity to train non-technical professionals in various areas of their professional life, leveraging the advancements in generative AI.

The soft skill courses, numbering over 100, cover a range of topics such as effectively running one-on-one meetings, strategic leadership assessment, behavioral profile assessment, sales skills assessment, and improving public speaking. Users can select courses or ask the AI assistant to find relevant ones, and then practice different scenarios based on the description. The AI assistant provides feedback and guidance, helping users identify areas for improvement.

CodeSignal has developed its own voice stack for the simulations, allowing users to interact with the AI character using voice commands. The platform uses an energy meter system, where free users have a limited number of interactions per day, and can unlock unlimited chats with the AI assistant for a fee of $24.99.

As users complete practices and courses, they progress through different levels of competency, marked by developing, intermediate, advanced, and expert markers. CodeSignal also offers enterprise plans, designing customized courses specific to a company's knowledge base and cultural values. These courses can feature AI characters with different personalities to help professionals practice various real-life situations.

However, experts have raised concerns about the potential lack of cultural sensitivity in these courses. Sumit Singla, an India-based HR consultant, noted that AI might suggest being assertive in some cases, but this could be frowned upon in certain locations. He emphasized the importance of baking in cultural sensitivity and contextual awareness to avoid unpleasant experiences for employees.

Solyan acknowledged that incorporating cultural and personality context is an iterative process and that CodeSignal builds cultural templates when working with clients in different locations and regions. The company plans to expand its reach by launching iOS and Android apps later this year.

CodeSignal is not the only player in the AI-powered soft skill training space. Microsoft LinkedIn has also experimented with using AI-driven tools for courses in this segment. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these platforms address the challenges of cultural sensitivity and contextual awareness.

In conclusion, CodeSignal's AI-powered soft skill courses mark a significant step towards democratizing access to executive coaching. While there are challenges to be addressed, the potential benefits of making these skills more widely available are substantial. As the platform continues to grow and refine its offerings, it will be worth watching how it impacts the way professionals develop their soft skills.