The importance of human skills, often referred to as soft skills, has become increasingly critical in building strong and effective teams. As remote and hybrid work environments become the norm, these skills are more vital than ever.
But what exactly are human skills?
These are the abilities that enable us to connect with others on a deeper level, through empathy, compassion, and authenticity. Individuals with strong human skills foster better relationships with colleagues and customers, laying the groundwork for innovation, collaboration, and adaptability in the workplace.
This theme was a major focus at the 2021 Partners’ Meeting—Learn, Lead, Illuminate. As we engaged virtually with leaders in organizational development, it became clear that human skills are essential for thriving in a more digital, inclusive future.
The pandemic underscored this reality. The rapid shift in work arrangements exposed relational challenges as everyone struggled to adjust.
Teams encountered issues such as:
- New hires feeling isolated during onboarding
- Team members disengaging due to reduced face-to-face interaction
- Over-reliance on digital communication to compensate for the lack of in-person contact
- Increased burnout from the difficulty of “switching off” while working from home
Even as employees return to the office, the way we work has permanently evolved. These challenges are here to stay, making the development of human skills crucial for navigating this new landscape.
5 Human Skills That Will Empower Leaders in the New World of Work
1. Empathy
Empathy is the ability to genuinely care about others and understand their emotions and perspectives. It may not traditionally be seen as a top workplace skill, but it’s essential for building lasting, positive relationships and effectively managing challenges.
In these unpredictable times, stepping out of our comfort zones is a must. As the pace of change accelerates, conflicts and friction are inevitable. Empathy allows us to stay connected and collaborate through these challenges.
What does empathy look like in practice? Some leaders are dedicating extra time to connect with new hires, helping them feel more integrated into the company culture. Others are supporting team members facing burnout by helping them set boundaries and prioritize self-care, such as mindfulness.
Effective empathy also requires strong communication, which leads us to the next skill.
2. Communication
Communication has always been important, but its role has evolved with the rise of video calls and group chats.
To communicate effectively, whether online or in person, you need to:
- Listen actively
- Clarify to avoid misunderstandings
- Be mindful of your body language
- Clearly articulate your key points
In a remote environment, active listening and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard are even more critical. Attention to these details can prevent miscommunication and make team interactions more seamless.
3. Adaptability
The pandemic reminded us of the importance of staying prepared for the unexpected, especially with potential restrictions or sudden changes.
Being flexible and adaptable helps us maintain a positive outlook when facing challenges and find creative solutions with available resources. Leaders need to adapt emotionally and socially to manage diverse personalities and situations effectively. Developing emotional intelligence is key to navigating these relationships smoothly.
4. Coaching
Coaching is vital for bringing out the best in your team. Rather than just giving directives, effective leaders focus on asking the right questions, listening intently, and empowering their team members.
Creating a coaching culture helps employees feel supported and enhances their skill development, which ultimately benefits the organization by fostering innovation and retaining talent.
5. Trust Building
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. Leaders must establish trust as a foundation before anything else. When team members feel safe and trust each other, they can perform at their highest level.
Building trust requires authenticity, honesty, transparency, and compassion. Leaders can set the tone by owning their mistakes, looking out for their team, and being open about challenges. This cultivates a safe environment where team members feel comfortable being themselves and learning together.
Human Skills for a Thriving Future
As we navigate this new era of work, developing human skills will be crucial for both individuals and organizations to succeed. By honing these skills, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and our teams.