As AI transforms the workplace, the spotlight shifts to soft skills — creativity, empathy and adaptability — that machines can’t replicate. L&D professionals play a vital role in nurturing uniquely human traits, preparing employees to keep pace with change, and to thrive in it. The future of work is deeply, defiantly human.
AI may be changing the game, shaking up the way we work and making everything more efficient, but here’s the thing: the more AI takes over the routine, the more businesses need people who can think differently, connect emotionally and bring that unquantifiable magic — call it human whimsy — to the workplace. Those unexpected sparks of inspiration that lead to breakthroughs.
Let’s be clear. AI isn’t here to steal jobs, it’s here to supercharge them. It’s the sidekick handling the boring admin so people can focus on the bigger picture. It drafts job descriptions, helps answer tricky queries and crunches data at lightning speed. But what it can’t do is dream up bold new ideas, navigate complex human relationships or inspire a team with a vision. That’s where humans come in.
AI may be smart, but it doesn’t have emotional intelligence
Soft skills are the real superpower, and they are exclusive to humans, not machines. AI may be smart, but it doesn’t have emotional intelligence. It can’t negotiate a deal with a personal touch, spark a creative brainstorm or lead a team through uncertainty. A 2024 study found that 84% of employers now see soft skills as a top hiring priority. That’s because creativity, adaptability and communication are what make a workplace thrive.
Developing human skills
Learning and Development (L&D) teams recognise this need and are responding by shifting focus to the development of soft skills in the workplace and ensuring employees develop the skills that set them apart. It’s no longer just about technical training. The real edge comes from sharpening those human skills that AI can’t replicate.
The shift to remote and hybrid work has made soft skills more essential than ever. Communication, adaptability, collaboration and problem-solving in a digital environment require a new level of emotional intelligence. Without in-person interactions, employees must rely on clarity in written and verbal communication, active listening and the ability to build trust across virtual teams.
Remote work removes the structure of a traditional office, meaning employees must be self-motivated and proactive in managing their workload. It’s no longer about being seen at a desk, it’s about delivering results and fostering meaningful connections, even through a screen.
The tools and the skills
L&D teams are helping employees and managers build these skills by offering targeted training on virtual collaboration, conflict resolution and digital presence. Success in remote work isn’t just about having the right tools; it’s about knowing how to use them effectively while maintaining strong working relationships.
AI can play a supportive role in enhancing productivity by handling routine tasks and empowering employees to focus on what truly drives success.Think of AI as your personal assistant, not your replacement. It’s here to take the repetitive stuff off the to-do list, freeing people up for what really matters — creative thinking, strategic decision-making and connecting with others.
AI can support the process, but it’s people who bring learning to life
Take AI-driven learning platforms: They recommend courses based on career aspirations, making training more relevant. But the real magic? It still comes from human curiosity, engagement and the ability to take an idea and run with it. AI can support the process, but it’s people who bring learning to life.
The shape of AI
Just as AI enhances learning without replacing human creativity, it’s also transforming job roles in the workplace. Remember when the internet was supposed to take jobs away? Instead, it created new ones. AI is doing the same. Rather than making roles redundant, it’s reshaping them. Businesses that embrace AI as a collaborator will see greater efficiency, innovation and engagement.
The challenge for L&D? Ensuring employees are ready. The future of work isn’t about being faster, it’s about being more human. Creativity, empathy and adaptability are what will set top performers apart in an AI-enhanced world. Companies that thrive will be the ones that double down on what makes people special.
This is where L&D plays a pivotal role. Preparing employees for the future of work goes beyond technical skills. It’s about fostering the very human traits that technology can’t replicate. L&D professionals are not merely trainers. They are architects of a learning culture that champions creativity, adaptability and connection.
Chris Eigeland is co-founder and CEO of Go1
