We have all heard it for years now, Robots are taking over! They are going to steal all of our jobs. We see it everywhere that robots are transforming the workplace. Consider the role that software automation, computers and artificial intelligence have already played in reshaping jobs. On a daily basis, you probably use ATMs, customer service chatbots and self-service checkouts. The examples go on and on, however, the point is not to scare you. The reality is, it’s challenging to predict the actual impact that robots will have on jobs. However, one thing if for certain… There are still a number of skills that robots cannot take away from you and you will want to highlight these skills on your CV to help you stand out from the bots.
Below are four human skills to include on your CV that automation will not be able to replace.
- Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence, put simply, is the ability to express and control your emotions, in addition to shape and understand the emotions of other people. Whether you are communicating with customers, co-workers, or clients, you will require some degree of emotional intelligence.
Imagine if your manager did not possess any emotional intelligence. They would have no chance of communicating effectively with you. They also would not understand why you need to work from home for one day and would not be able to help you to manage your stress. They simply would not understand.
Now, there are robots being developed that use AI to detect emotions and read social cues. However, they cannot replace human workers and the complexities of the human condition. Sure, they may be able to register emotions, however, that does not mean they can show empathy or build relationships like you.
Even if you do not have an off-the-charts EQ, it is still a lot higher than that of a machines. As you interact with your direct-reports, management and co-workers, keep your EQ in mind. Note key examples where it has helped you to be better at your job and do not fear mentioning these in your next job interview or weave empathy into your personal brand.
- Creative Problem Solving
Because robots cannot understand and tap into human psychology like other humans can, they will not be able to creatively problem-solve like advertisers, marketers and designers have to.
Think about it: say you have created a Facebook ad, but people are not engaging with it. Is a computer going to be able to effectively theorise why and propose a solution? They may be able to plug in some kind of formula and adjust the ad, however, that does not always work. Oftentimes, what it comes down to is understanding your audience – getting inside their head.
Creative problem solving can mean many things: resolving employee conflict, adjusting internal workflow processes or meeting a client’s goals.
Take a moment to think of a few times you have had to get creative to solve an issue. Walk through your decision-making process and explore how you came to a solution. Could a machine do that? Most likely not. Keep this in mind when updating your CV.
- Management (Both Human and Technological)
Most companies already use artificial intelligence and software programs to manage their products, employers, or services. Implementing these tools enables employees to bypass menial tasks and instead focus on the more important work.
So, technically, automation has already began taking over many workplaces, however, you still require humans to monitor it. For example, if your company’s bookkeeper or accountant uses a program to track expenses and income. What happens if the program crashes? When there is a payment error? Do you bring in another automated or software process? No, you require a human to detect the mistake and use those problem-solving skills to get a solution. And when it comes to managing employees, automation and computers simply cannot replace humans.
As you continue to advance in your career, keep these managerial needs in mind. Highlight your experience managing both humans and technology to help show employers your value.
- Communication
Sure, you have seen robots communicate with one another and even humans. However, they still cannot entirely replace humans – both internally within a business and externally to customers.
Think about those days you communicate with co-workers exclusively or work from home through your company’s messaging system. It works just fine, however, it is not as effective as face-to-face interactions. And that is just internally – what about communicating with your audience outside the business?
When talking about communication skills, it is also vital to consider nonverbal communication skills; these are generally as important as your verbal skills.
Simply put: Robots cannot communicate with humans like humans can. Again, as you progress in your career, consider the way you communicate externally and internally. Make an effort to polish these soft skills in a variety of situations and to highlight them on your CV.
Conclusion
To be honest, it is challenging to predict exactly how technology will shape the workforce. Automation has certainly taken over some jobs, however, there are particular human skills it simply will not be able to match. So, what do you have to do? First, do not worry too much. Continue to focus on your job and growing your skills. Secondly, keep the skills robots cannot replace top of mind as you update your CV. Even if you are not searching for a new role right now, continue to develop your professional skills so you can show them off when the time comes to look for a new job.