Emotional intelligence doesn’t show up on a balance sheet. But as technology reshapes how people work, it’s becoming one of the most valuable assets in the workplace.

Companies continue to invest in artificial intelligence. According to a recent Empower study, 58% of Americans now use AI tools at work, most often for tasks like writing, editing, and content generation.

This preference is shaping how employers think about talent and what skills they reward.

Remembering the human

Professionals who combine technical fluency with interpersonal skills could find themselves better positioned to grow, lead, and earn.

Soft skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability are among the most in-demand capabilities across industries, according to recent research.¹ Nearly 70% of U.S. executives said they plan to prioritize hiring qualified candidates with soft skills — particularly those that are transferrable and can apply to several roles.² Ninety-two percent say that they see soft skills as (or more) important than hard skills when making hiring decisions. 

Performance reviews are shifting, too. Another recent survey finds 78% of employers now assess soft skills during evaluations, and 63% of employees who received soft skills training report a positive impact on their overall work performance.^3,4

There’s good reason for soft skills being in demand: These characteristics often translate in to more collaborative teams across tools, time zones, and roles.⁵ Those with soft and hard skills are also crucial during periods of transition in a company. They are able to connect and adapt — even in industries defined by change. 

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AI raises the bar for soft skills

AI tools can’t replace emotional intelligence. Instead, they’re increasing employer demand for it. Businesses across many industries have a need for personnel who are comfortable with using AI, can share and explain its outputs, and act confidently with what it creates. Empower’s “AI Advantage” study shows Gen Z is already using AI for job preparation, career development, and as a digital editor for resumes. 

Technical proficiency goes hand-in-hand with soft skills to make the most of these tools. The ability to communicate clearly — and think contextually — are the keys that can unlock AI’s workplace capabilities. One recent research study tested how people and AI perform on identical tasks, such as spotting fake reviews or classifying images.⁶ The results were mixed when each worked independently. The highest level of accuracy came when people and AI worked together. 

When it comes to AI, success often depends on pairing logic with empathy, and speed with decision-making. 

Career growth favors people who connect

Soft skills shape outcomes in subtle ways and often influence long-term career trajectories more than technical skills alone. Professionals who listen actively, manage conflict, and build trust tend to earn more visibility in the workplace. One meta-analysis study on emotional intelligence suggests that soft skills could significantly predict leadership effectiveness, particularly with conflict resolution and team coordination.⁷  

Soft skills aren’t just personality traits: They may also be differentiating factors in work performance. As more companies formalize how they evaluate collaboration, empathy, and leadership presence, soft skills are becoming part of internal frameworks for promotion and even succession plans. For example, one tech giant has rolled out a comprehensive soft skills assessment program, focusing on emotional intelligence, adaptability, and teamwork.⁸ The program uses psychometric tests, competency frameworks, and AI-driven analysis to determine where soft skills gaps might exist. 

Over time, this may lead to broader responsibilities or consideration for promotions or a new position elsewhere in the company.⁹ There’s strong data that indicates a link between career durability and higher long-term earnings.¹⁰ LinkedIn research indicates employees who list robust soft and hard skills on their profile are promoted 11% faster than those who only list technical prowess.¹¹

Although these skills don’t guarantee promotion, they may factor in who gets picked for projects, leadership pipelines, and business negotiations. 

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Valuable isn’t always visible

Workplace transformations often focus on tools, rather than the people alongside them. Tools can’t replace trust, clarity, or adaptability: they run alongside those who mold them. Professionals who can pair technical literacy with emotional insight might not just be adapting —they may also be leading.

Creating confidence can be as important as harnessing the promise of new tech. Those with interpersonal skills and intuition can get digital upgrades implemented and understood. When it comes to leveling up in one’s career, these skills can be anything but soft.