Lots of conversation these days regarding the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It is seeping into many aspects of life. The questions seem to be “Will AI replace humans? Is it something to be embraced or held at arms length?”
AI may replace many things. What I like to believe is that it will never replace human skills.
What are human skills? Adaptability. Resilience. Empathy. Emotional intelligence. Written and verbal communication. Curiosity. Critical thinking. Problem solving. Logical reasoning. It is these skills that may be replicated by AI, but they will never be replaced.
Glenn Davidson, an executive with Deloitte Consulting LLP, states, “The technical knowledge and skills that our workforce needs may change over time, but human skills are a timeless asset to workers.” An individual’s ability to connect with others in a compassionate and caring way is a necessary means to effectiveness in both the workplace and life.
In addition to human skills people with personality are highly valued. “An employer can teach you how to use Excel, but they can’t teach you how to be you,” observes Jawuan Freeman. A positive personality enhances teamwork, creates a much more inviting working environment, and allows people to embrace risk.
AI may perfect technical skills, but human skills will remain the product of real people. AI may be a tool that we can use. It might provide advancement in how we implement things. But I like to believe the human touch and contact can never be replaced.
It may be more beneficial to improve our human skills. Get better at the things that we can get better at. This will allow us to be more marketable. It will enhance how we live. It will allow us to bring the Human Skills that remain essential.