Ever wondered what makes humans irreplaceable in an AI-powered workplace? As artificial intelligence reshapes how we work, certain skills become even more valuable precisely because they’re distinctly human. The most successful people in tomorrow’s workplaces will be those who embrace AI as a partner, using their human talents to enhance and guide technology rather than fight against it. These complementary skills are powerful assets that let you harness AI’s potential to drive your career forward. Here’s how to strengthen the human skills that make you brilliant at working with AI.

 

Problem-Solving: Be the Fixer

LinkedIn’s 2024 report identifies adaptability as the #1 most in-demand skill, driven by AI’s rapid evolution. This makes sense because while AI is excellent at rapidly processing information and identifying patterns, humans excel when handling uncertain situations and unexpected challenges.

Why it matters: Your ability to step into unclear situations, experiment with solutions, and respond flexibly makes AI an even stronger tool in your hands.

• Try this: Next time something doesn’t go to plan—like a tricky software issue—pause and attempt to solve it yourself first. You’ll strengthen your ability to adapt and use AI tools effectively in real-time problem-solving.
• Quick tip: Practise coming up with multiple creative solutions before choosing one—brainstorming builds your confidence in tackling unpredictable scenarios.

Emotional Intelligence: The Human Touch

Machines may become increasingly sophisticated, but understanding emotions and managing relationships will always give you an advantage in team settings and group work.

Why it matters: Understanding and handling emotions can help you use AI tools in ways that work better with people, building stronger connections and trust within teams.

• Try this: When someone shares a concern or idea, practise active listening by briefly restating their viewpoint (“It seems you’re worried about…”). This demonstrates empathy and enhances mutual understanding.
• Quick tip: When you feel tense, notice physical cues like your heart rate or breathing. Increasing your self-awareness helps you stay composed and effective alongside AI in high-stakes moments.

Adaptability: Rolling with the Punches

As AI continues to evolve, adaptability is the key skill for embracing new technologies and shifting responsibilities positively.

Why it matters: Being adaptable means seeing AI developments not as threats but as exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth.

• Try this: Regularly explore new digital tools—even just 15 minutes each week spent learning about platforms like ChatGPT can enhance your flexibility and confidence.
• Quick tip: When confronted with changes at work or new systems, consciously ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” This straightforward mindset shift helps you remain proactive and positive.

Creativity: Thinking Weird and Wonderful

Creativity allows you to leverage AI’s analytical power by infusing projects with originality and inventive ideas.

Why it matters: Creative thinking helps you come up with new ways to use AI, turning technical capabilities into useful real-world solutions.

• Try this: Make a habit of brainstorming playful or unusual solutions to common work problems—then refine the most promising ones into realistic proposals. You’ll build creativity that makes you stand out.
• Quick tip: Take short breaks—like walks—to stimulate fresh ideas. Physical movement sparks innovative thinking, helping you leverage AI’s capabilities more imaginatively.

Critical Thinking: Asking the Right Questions

Critical thinking helps you get the most from AI by carefully considering the information that goes into it – and the answers it gives you. This is about ensuring you’re putting in good information and then carefully reviewing what AI produces rather than just accepting everything it suggests.

Why it matters: With an abundance of AI-generated content, sharp critical thinking helps you evaluate information quality, making sound decisions that are informed by AI rather than blindly driven by it.

• Try this: When you receive AI-generated information, pause and ask yourself: “Who benefits from me believing this? Is there bias or missing context?”
• Quick tip: Regularly play devil’s advocate against your assumptions. This habit sharpens your ability to question AI-driven insights constructively, increasing the accuracy of your decisions.

Thriving Alongside AI…

As AI becomes a bigger part of our working lives, your human skills become even more important. By building up your problem-solving, understanding of emotions, ability to adapt, creativity, and careful thinking, you’ll do more than just keep up—you’ll do better because of AI. Instead of worrying about change, successful people make the most of AI by constantly improving the skills that help them spot and use new opportunities.

Quick Start: Pick one skill to practice this month. Even small steps like trying a new digital tool, practising active listening with colleagues, or brainstorming creative ideas can make a big difference in your career.