AI is changing how organizations think about their talent strategies.

Both in terms of recruiting new talent and in preparing their existing employees for the future of work.

As organizations come to grasp with the full extent of what AI can do, they’re also coming to terms with all that it can’t do — those tasks that require the uniquely human skills that all businesses need.

Organizational leaders can help their talent stay agile by continuing to help employees build critical soft skills. A recent LinkedIn survey found that 9 out of 10 global executives agree that soft skills are more important than ever. 

LinkedIn recently published their list of the most in-demand career skills for 2024 and its no surprise that soft skills dominate this list for the year ahead, as AI and tech continue to disrupt how we work. 

LinkedIn’s most in-demand skills for 2024: 

Communication

In the new world of remote and hybrid work, employees communicate across a variety of channels and platforms, both in person and online. Effective communication from company and team leadership across channels helps connect, motivate, and inspire teams and continues to be an essential skill.

Customer service 

AI is transforming the customer service industry but there are some aspects that cannot be automated and require a human experience.  Skills that center around the people aspects of customer service, including cultivating relationships and connections, are becoming increasingly important.

Leadership 

Strong leadership talent is vital to organizational growth and continues to be a critical skill for career success.

Project management

As teams and workflows grow more complex, people and project leaders who can keep everything and everyone organized will be in high demand. 

Management 

Management skills that help organizations achieve business outcomes and results are versatile and transferable and will continue to be in high demand as the world of work and tech evolves. 

Analytics

In an increasingly data-driven world, the skills to interpret complex data, analyze insights, and make informed decisions swiftly will be critical. 

Teamwork

Regardless of how teams work together, the ability to strengthen collaboration, efficiency and effectiveness remains a desirable skill for candidates across industries. 

Sales

The ability to sell through building relationships and bringing in customers remains an essential skill in the business world. Additionally, those who can leverage AI tools in the sales cycle will thrive and stand out. 

Problem-solving 

As AI continues to change how we work, it will create many solutions as well as new challenges and problems to solve.  Leaders who can apply critical thinking and strategy to challenging problems will be in demand in any industry.

Research 

With more information available than ever before, strong research skills to collect, analyze and synthesize information will be critical and highly in demand. Also crucial will be the ability to differentiate between legitimate information sources and AI content.

No sure where to start? We can help.  

South End Partners has helped companies like yours eliminate millions in hiring mistakes and employee turnover costs. We deliver off-market superstars - the 70% of talent that is currently not actively looking for a job.

Our team is backed by proprietary AI technology and a world-class insider network, meaning we consistently deliver the highest-caliber talent and guarantee a great hire, every time. 

Our recruiters operate differently. 

Our technology enables proven results. 

Our network provides access to unmatched talent.

We have successfully recruited over 400 senior leadership roles over the last 5 years, partnering with some of Canada's biggest and fastest-growing brands.

Our Toronto executive recruiters work with large and small organizations across industries (from technology, to manufacturing and supply chain, to HR, e-commerce, sales and operations) to help them find the right leaders for the right opportunities using an objective, data driven approach.

We also provide comprehensive HR consulting services including onboarding support, interview coaching and training, and strategies to develop your superstar teams.

Ready to see our results in action? 

Lets talk about how we can help you find your next great hire