The skills people still perform better than AI, according to workplace experts

Workplace experts say AI cannot easily replicate distinctly human skills that remain critical for career success, even as businesses increasingly adopt AI tools. Maria Flynn, president and CEO of Jobs for the Future, notes that skills like empathy, relationship-building, conflict resolution, and ethical decision-making are resistant to displacement by AI. These 'durable skills' retain value across economic and technological changes, making workers indispensable regardless of available tools. Flynn emphasizes that employers now seek candidates with strong communication and leadership abilities, even for technical roles like IT support. She describes these skills as foundational, ensuring workers remain valuable amid labor market disruptions driven by AI advancements. Experts highlight five key human strengths where AI lags. Empathy—such as interpreting body language and understanding unspoken emotions—is one area where human connection excels. Marco Iansiti, a Harvard Business School professor, observed this firsthand during a hospital stay, where a nurse’s compassionate care felt irreplaceable by a robot. While AI can handle administrative tasks like paperwork, freeing healthcare workers for patient care, human empathy remains essential in high-stakes environments. Building strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders is another prized skill. These personal connections foster collaboration and trust, areas where AI currently falls short. Ethical judgment and critical thinking also stand out as human strengths, as AI lacks the nuanced moral reasoning required in complex decision-making. Flynn stresses that cultivating these skills helps employees adapt to technological changes while maintaining their professional relevance. By focusing on 'durable skills,' workers can future-proof their careers against AI-driven disruptions in the workplace.