Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work.
Technology is moving at light speed and becoming faster, smarter, and more capable of providing information at your fingertips. From writing emails, analysing information, creating images and presentations to answering phone calls and taking enquiries – employers are embracing AI in so many ways.
Students who are entering the workforce ask the question, “What will employers value when AI can do so much?” The answer is pretty simple; employment in the future will be for those who don’t compete with AI. It will belong to those who have the skills that AI cannot replicate.
One of the most important messages Jonno shares during his talks is about the future and AI. And even though technology will continue to transform many jobs, employable qualities remain human at their core.
Coachability
This is a key quality, and whilst AI can give answers, employers hire people who can learn. AI can also learn, but in a very different way to human learning and coachability.
Having the ability to take feedback, make adjustments, and learn and adapt quickly is one of the biggest advantages for young people in the workforce. The most successful employees are those who are willing to learn, not those who ‘think they know everything’.
For those students who can develop strong coachability skills, employers see value through adaptability and ease of training. Being the most valuable member of a team that you can be will set students up for success.
Ownership
AI can suggest, but leaders in the workplace can act. Having maturity and taking responsibility for actions are always high on the priority list for employers. When things don’t go to plan, taking ownership means admitting mistakes, taking accountability and following through on commitments even when it’s an uncomfortable situation.
Students who learn to take ownership early in their lives will stand out to future employers. It’s easy to blame circumstances or other employees for mistakes, but it’s much harder to own the outcome. Own the outcome and support your team, and you’ll master this skill.
Effort and Standards
Culture is a crucial part of any workplace. AI can automate tasks, but people create culture. Working in trade-based industries, it’s super important to have a positive work culture. Every business is driven by culture, and whilst technology can make work faster, it cannot replace a strong work ethic.
Work ethic means presenting yourself professionally, turning up on time every day, taking pride in your work and maintaining high standards, no matter what the project or task. In the eyes of an employer, this separates the average performing employee from an exceptional one.
These behaviours also build trust, and this area is where AI can fail. AI does get it wrong sometimes, and for employers, trust remains one of the most valuable currencies in any workplace.
Communication and Presence
Having the ability to communicate clearly, listen and build genuine relationships is becoming more and more important. AI can generate some impressive words, but humans can deliver them with passion and in a way that engages others and shows true presence.
Employers are looking for team members who can work well with others, effortlessly engage with customers, problem-solve and, most importantly, represent their business with professionalism at all times.
Never underestimate the positive impact of a confident handshake, holding eye contact when listening, asking engaging questions and having respectful communication. Creating a lasting impression on a potential employer can come from these small behaviours.
Resilience
AI doesn’t face the issue of failing publicly. People do. Every person who has ever experienced success has also experienced setbacks, mistakes and disappointment. The measure of their resilience is in the way they respond to these situations.
This means having the ability to keep moving forward in a positive way, even when times are difficult. And also having the confidence and ability to learn from failure rather than letting it define you.
In a world that is changing so rapidly, resilience and strength are the most powerful skills that a young person can possess.
The Future Belongs to Humans
Regardless of how much technology evolves and changes, one thing will always remain the same – employers will always need people who can learn, communicate, lead, take responsibility and build trust.
Yes, jobs will change, and industries will adapt, but the topics we have discussed today will still be the qualities that can create opportunities for young people moving into the workforce. Students don’t need to have their entire future planned and mapped out; they just need to start developing habits and a mindset that will make them valuable wherever they decide to go.
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Jonno McCartney’s school presentations help students understand the human skills employers value most while preparing them for success in an AI-driven world.