The AI survival skills you need to stay relevant With Dan Schawbel
Aug 6, 2024
auto_awesome
Dan Schawbel, a New York Times bestselling author and Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, dives into the seismic shifts AI is causing in the workplace. He reveals the growing need for human skills like creativity and emotional intelligence as automation rises. Schawbel discusses the resurgence of trade jobs among younger generations seeking stability, and the contrasting perceptions of AI’s impact between executives and employees. He also critiques traditional office models in a post-COVID world, advocating for hybrid work that enhances employee trust and productivity.
The significant disconnect between executives and employees regarding AI's impact on productivity highlights the need for better understanding and utilization of AI tools.
With the rising importance of human-centric skills like creativity and emotional intelligence, the job market is shifting towards practical abilities over traditional educational backgrounds.
Deep dives
AI's Dual Impact on Productivity
There is a significant divide between C-suite executives and employees regarding the impact of AI on productivity. While 96% of executives believe that AI enhances workplace productivity, 77% of employees report that it has increased their workload instead. This disparity may stem from employees' lack of understanding of how to effectively utilize the tools provided to them. Consequently, there's a growing concern about burnout, as many workers struggle to manage their responsibilities effectively in the face of heightened demands.
The Shifting Skills Landscape
With job markets evolving due to automation and AI, there is a noticeable shift towards prioritizing skills over traditional degrees. Companies are increasingly looking for candidates with specific skills, broadening their talent pools to include individuals with non-traditional backgrounds. AI technologies are automating hard skills, allowing workers to focus more on human-centric skills, such as creativity and emotional intelligence. This transition underscores the importance of adapting to the new demands in the workforce and highlights the necessity for continuous learning.
The Resurgence of Trade Jobs
Recent trends indicate a growing preference among young workers, particularly Gen Z, for trade jobs over traditional white-collar roles. As these jobs offer stable pay and do not require lengthy college degrees, many are gravitating towards hands-on professions like plumbing and electrical work. Despite the advancement of AI in various sectors, blue-collar jobs are experiencing a resurgence, with their necessary skills often encompassing strong interpersonal or soft skills. This shift has brought about a significant reevaluation of the labor market and the definition of career success.
Flexibility and Employee Satisfaction
The pandemic has fundamentally altered employee expectations regarding workplace flexibility, leading to widespread dissatisfaction with return-to-office mandates. Many employees now prioritize the ability to work remotely or in hybrid environments, having established routines that accommodate their personal lives during lockdowns. Companies that fail to adapt to this demand for flexibility risk high attrition rates as employees seek better opportunities elsewhere. Organizations must strike a balance between maintaining productivity and allowing employees the freedom to choose their work environment to ensure long-term satisfaction and loyalty.
AI is transforming the workforce at an unprecedented pace, raising critical questions about how professionals can stay competitive. In this episode, Dan Schawbel, New York Times bestselling author and Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, unpacks the AI survival skills every professional needs to future-proof their career.
Dan shares insights from his latest research, revealing how AI is reshaping hiring, soft skills, and productivity. He also discusses the rise of trade jobs, the shifting dynamics of remote work vs. office mandates, and the CEO vs. employee gap in AI adoption. Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or workforce professional, this episode will help you navigate the future of work with confidence.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode