What’s one “human skill” you think will be even more valuable in five years than it is today?
Last time, we explored “Did AI Write This?” and when something is structured and punctuated, nowadays it can be misunderstood as being AI-generated. If you missed it, you can catch up here
Exam results have just landed for many young people, and for some, it’s a celebration; for others, a moment of uncertainty. Yet here’s the thing: we know that the grades on that piece of paper are not the final word on their future.
Because the future of work is changing faster than any curriculum.
The skills that will matter most in the years ahead won’t be measured by a test score.
When we think about it…
- AI can write, but can it truly listen?
- AI can analyse, but can it build trust?
- AI can summarise, but can it inspire action?
Communication, empathy, collaboration – these are the regenerative, human-centric skills that set people apart, and grow stronger the more we use them, like a muscle… and that AI can’t replicate.
AI isn’t the enemy – it’s the amplifier. It’s about leveraging our uniquely human strengths.
The conversation around AI often focuses on replacement: “Will AI take my job?” Yet the real question is: “How will I work alongside AI to add value that only a human can?”
Think of AI as a tool that can handle the heavy lifting – drafting a first version, crunching the numbers, organising the data. This frees you up to do the things only you can do:
- Spot the emotional nuance in a client’s response.
- Frame an idea so it inspires action, not just understanding.
- Build trust that lasts longer than any transaction.
The Enduring Human Edge
Here’s what won’t get automated anytime soon:
- Empathy: Understanding feelings, not just facts.
- Storytelling: Turning ideas into experiences that people connect with
- Collaboration: Blending skills, perspectives, and yes, even AI contributions.
- Adaptability: Navigating change with creativity, rather than fear.
These skills aren’t static. They’re regenerative – the more we use them, the stronger they get.
Why This Matters Now
Employers worldwide are saying the same thing: they need people who can connect, communicate, and adapt. LinkedIn’s research consistently ranks soft skills – especially communication – at the top of hiring priorities.
And here’s the best part – you don’t need to wait for a new qualification to start building them. You can practise these every day:
- Ask better questions.
- Listen without rushing to reply.
- Turn a dull report into a story people want to hear.
A Regenerative Approach to Skills
AI can store information. Humans can create meaning.
AI can give an answer. Humans can spark a conversation.
If you approach your skills like a living ecosystem – feeding them through experiences, conversations, and curiosity – they’ll keep growing and adapting as the world changes.
“Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for human intelligence; it is a tool to support and extend it.”
– Fei-Fei Li –
[Co-Director of the Stanford Institute for Human-Centred Artificial Intelligence]
So, I invite you to try these things this week and see how it changes your conversations…
- Listen longer than feels comfortable before you reply.
- Ask one question designed to reveal something new.
- Tell one story that makes data feel human.
The tech will keep evolving. The question is: will we?
AI can do many things. But it can’t be you. Because in the end, technology may change the tools we use, yet it’s still people who make the difference.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this too and, if you would like to have a conversation, I would be very happy to meet up.
With warmest wishes,
Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
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