How managers can survive AI purge and future-proof their careers

THE news that Microsoft is making 9 000 workers redundant this year - with a particular focus on jettisoning managers — has sent ripples through workplaces across the globe.

- DOMINIC ASHLEY-TIMMS, LAURA ASHLEY- TIMMS.

In an era of technical disruption, human-centric skills that promote engagement, collaboration and critical thinking will be the key managerial differentiator. I Freepik

(I Freepik)

Artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced to encompass a vast range of skills; not only data-driven ones such as coding and debugging, but also more traditional managerial tasks. With smart technology snapping at their heels, managers increasingly have to contend with the challenge of remaining relevant in a digitally-driven world.

If you are a manager of people, the career-defining question of the moment is what can you do to future-proof your management role and survive the AI purge. The simplest answer may lie in developing your human-centric skills.

For years, the value of human-centric skills such as empathy, active listening and effective communication has been diminished by the label “soft”. This is in contrast to “hard” skills like writing code or analysing data, which are seen as more easily quantifiable.

In a world being rapidly and increasingly reshaped by AI and automation, these distinctions are now under scrutiny. What we are seeing is that AI can replicate hard skills incredibly easily; while soft skills remain the preserve of humans.

And with managers having to navigate their teams through tumultuous change, these soft skills are becoming increasingly crucial.