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The artificial intelligence age is upon us, and it’s rapidly transforming many aspects of work and office culture. But there are a number of essential human skills that technology can’t replicate—and they’re more important than ever for business success. For example, AI might help you streamline inventory management, analyze purchasing trends, or improve cybersecurity. But it can’t replicate meaningful emotional connections with your team or your customers.
Here are three key qualities worth honing to make yourself a better human leader in the digital age.
1) The ability to encourage others. Technology can’t nurture personal and professional development in your team like you can. Why does it matter? Research shows that happier workers are more productive and perform their jobs better than unhappy ones. Recent studies by Workhuman-Gallup found that positive recognition on the job improves workers’ sense of well-being. Data from another study by the same group showed that recognition and wellbeing are a winning combo: Together they improve business outcomes.
2) The ability to inspire others. In today’s turbulent business world, it’s hard to have a clear vision for the future. But you can still lead by example by demonstrating good change-management skills and adaptability. What does this mean in terms of AI? Read up on the technology to deepen your understanding of its implications for your business. Consider taking a virtual or in-person workshop. Give your people opportunities to familiarize themselves with AI too and to get comfortable using it. “Provide the capability building to enable them to learn,” was the advice of Hannah Mayer, a partner at McKinsey & Partners Consulting, at a recent MIT Sloan CIO Symposium dedicated to AI.
3) The ability to connect with others. Machines don’t empathize or team build. Nor do they help workers feel included and supported. Ironically, the more connected people become to technology, the less connected to their company they often feel, according to bestselling author and motivational speaker Erica Keswin. She advises leaders to help their staffs connect through team-building activities and to help them connect to a genuine sense of purpose in their work. In practical terms, this means communicating your company’s mission and core values, and helping workers feel invested in them through a culture of rewards and recognition. Keswin also advocates for helping employees discover a personal sense of purpose in their work. Provide them with opportunities for professional development and growth that will help them reach their career goals. Why is it important? According to research firm Gallup, a highly engaged workforce can increase profitability by 21 percent.
