As I mention on the Personal Development page of this web site, Artificial Intelligence does not decrease the need for soft skills. Instead, it increases the need for more focused development, as soft skills become more important to human interaction as AI evolves and impacts the world. 

Why is this? 

Well, there are a variety of reasons presented below illustrating why soft skills still have kudos, and this is largely due to the fact that AI does not easily reproduce behaviours, skills and traits of human beings.

The ‘human touch’ requires engagement, emotional intelligence and interpersonal skill, all of which can build relationships and resolve people issues. 

Effective communication underpinns human interaction and verbal and non-verbal skills such as active listening, speaking clearly, reading emotional reactions and empathising with others, rely very much on the experience of the people involved. 

Adaptability and flexibility have been essential to human development and survival. We are naturally agile and constant learners. Our mindset, self-awareness, problem-solving and decision-making, flaws and all, make us who we are. ‘Real-life’ doesn’t use VAR! 

In customer-facing environments, the ‘human touch’ is important and can make a massive difference to people. I know we all prefer talking to a ‘real person’! 

The ‘Spirit of Invention’ is inherently human. Our curiosity, imagination, creativity, innovation and critical reflection make us unique, providing us with diversity of ideas, perspectives and thought.

Leadership...Can AI inspire people to aspire to be better or collaborate at a higher level? 

We all know that our soft skills complement and work hand-in-hand with our technical skills. They help us to comprehend and navigate the challenges of both our lives and our workplace. Both of these environments involve engaging with and understanding people, all of which can be interesting, rewarding and difficult in equal measure. 

Although AI does improve many processes and is beneficial in many ways, we are constantly questioning the ethical nature of its use. Our soft skills are and will remain uniquely human, the essential tools for living life and working successfully. So, for that reason, I’m not so sure that AI knows enough of ‘human nature’ yet to offer that ‘human touch’! 

Just saying...until the next time!