27 Jun Soft Skills are the Future of Work
Reading Time: 3 minutesBy Kynnedi Hines
There is no secret that the workplace is rapidly evolving for organizations across the world and with that evolution comes change in the makeup of the workforce. Currently, Gen Z and millennials make up about 38% of the total workforce and are expected to make up more than half by 2030. Therefore, companies must understand and adapt to the new priorities, values and expectations of these newer groups of employees to maintain a harmonious environment.
As workforce generational changes have occurred, there is one truth that remains consistent when understanding these demographics: soft skills and human connection are core priorities. Critical soft skills like quality communication, leadership, and empathy are valuable gems that will directly affect future business success and the workplace.
Understanding the Future: Purpose Over Paychecks
To understand the shift, it is essential to understand the generation. Gen Z and Millennials are flexible, evolving workers who value purpose, authenticity and transparency.
They appreciate organizations with a work-life balance, offering well-being and security. After witnessing and/or experiencing the 2008 recession and COVID pandemic, it is no surprise that the generations value loyalty, mutual respect and trust from leaders. Stanford researchers found that they are also likely to enjoy their workplace when their leadership leads by consensus. According to a study by Deloitte, which supports Stanford’s findings, Gen Z and Millennials prefer management that provides “guidance, inspiration and mentorship, not just oversight of daily tasks.”
The Deloitte study found that shockingly only 6% of the demographic has the primary goal of climbing the corporate ladder, but that does not mean they are not determined to succeed. Instead of career advancement, the study found that they sought meaning behind their work and a feeling that they are contributing to the betterment of society. They have an undeniable eagerness to learn, connect, collaborate, develop and be inspired.
The Progressive Necessity
Incorporating these newer leaders into the workplace will require adaptation and foundational change. Eliana Goldstein, a New York-based career coach, emphasizes that companies investing in soft skills will only strengthen workplaces: “[It] will not only help companies be more successful, but it will help in terms of employee retention.”
As technology and artificial intelligence (AI) reshape roles and technical skills, it has become necessary to recognize the importance of and maintain human qualities and soft skills. Communication and emotional intelligence should not just be helpful and optional.
Soft skills are described as the bridge between humans and machines, being essential yet undervalued. A 2019 article in Parade magazine emphasized that, according to the LinkedIn Emerging Job Report, we should be sharpening our oral communication skills. “Public speaking, preparing and giving presentations, effective communication with co-workers—are in short supply across the country,” the article said. From leading teams to managing change, these soft skills drive everything from productivity to retention.
The Speakeasy Solution: Human-Centered Communication
At Speakeasy, we understand that strong communication isn’t just a soft skill; it’s a business necessity for growth. Our programs are designed to equip professionals with the tools to become better communicators, build trust, and lead with empathy.
Through our proven techniques, we help individuals:
- Strengthen emotional intelligence and self-awareness
- Communicate with clarity and confidence
- Build authentic connections across teams and cultures
- Adapt with resilience in dynamic environments
For organizations looking to attract, retain and develop top talent, soft skills training needs to be prioritized. The workforce is changing and so are the skills that define success. In an age where information is abundant and technology is advancing fast, it’s the human element that will always set professionals apart. Communication, connection, and empathy are no longer optional. They’re powerful. They’re transformational. Luckily, with Speakeasy, they’re within reach.