The Business of Loving: Embracing a Future of Rapidly Growing Social and Emotional Skills

As we embark on a new era of technological advancements, it's becoming increasingly clear that finely tuned social and emotional skills are more crucial than ever. A recent analysis of 25 core workplace skills has revealed that basic digital skills are the second-fastest-growing category, with an impressive increase of 69 percent in the United States and 65 percent in Europe.

However, this growth is not limited to basic digital skills alone. Advanced IT and programming skills are expected to grow by as much as 90 percent between 2020 and 2030, with a projected increase in time spent using advanced technological skills by 50 percent in the United States and 41 percent in Europe. This rapid shift towards automation demands that people develop not only basic digital skills but also advanced technological expertise.

Our research suggests that technological advancements will require individuals who not only understand how these technologies work but can also innovate, develop, and adapt them. The need for such skilled professionals will be substantial, with a minority of workers possessing these highly sought-after skills.

The demand for workforce skills is set to undergo a significant transformation as automation continues to reshape the job market. Shifting skill requirements in five sectors - technological, physical, manual, social, and emotional - will necessitate workers everywhere to deepen their existing skill sets or acquire new ones.

Companies will also need to rethink how work is organized within their organizations, recognizing that the future of work will be characterized by a blend of human skills and technological capabilities. As we move forward, it's essential for individuals and businesses alike to prioritize the development of social and emotional skills, which are poised to rise in demand even as other skills decline.

The introduction of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) marks an acceleration of skill shifts that have accompanied new technologies since the Industrial Revolution. In this era of rapid technological change, it's crucial for workers, businesses, and policymakers to acknowledge the need for a future workforce equipped with the social and emotional skills required to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.

By embracing this reality, we can work towards building a future where humans and technology coexist harmoniously, driving innovation and growth while ensuring that all individuals have access to fulfilling and meaningful careers.

Business of loving 0.8