As AI takes over, soft skills are no longer optional: LinkedIn lists the top human skills you need to land your next job
LinkedIn's recent report highlights the increasing value of soft skills compared to technical abilities in achieving success in one's career. Among the top ten trending skills, seven are centered around human interaction, such as conflict resolution, flexibility, and creativity. The advancement of AI technology is contributing to this shift, as professionals are now expected to excel in conflict management, adapt to change, and enhance customer relationships.
The Importance of Soft Skills in the Modern Workforce
If you think technical expertise alone will land you your next job, think again. A new LinkedIn report, Skills on the Rise 2025, has sent a clear message: soft skills are not just important—they're essential. In fact, seven out of the top ten rising skills identified in the study fall under this category, proving that human-centric abilities are what truly set candidates apart in today’s workforce.
Andrew McCaskill, a career expert at LinkedIn, believes it’s time to retire the term soft skills altogether. “We do these skills a disservice by calling them ‘soft,’” he told CNBC. “These human-centric skills are really game changers when it comes to career success.” With workplaces transforming in the post-pandemic era and artificial intelligence (AI) taking over repetitive tasks, professionals who master adaptability, communication, and problem-solving will be the ones who thrive.
From ‘Nice-to-Have’ to ‘Must-Have’—Soft Skills Take Center Stage
For decades, soft skills were considered secondary—valuable, but not necessarily a priority in hiring. But LinkedIn’s latest data suggests a shift in employer priorities. The study measured the frequency of LinkedIn users adding skills to their profiles, the hiring rates for those with certain skills, and how often a skill appeared in job postings. The results were clear: companies want professionals who can navigate conflict, embrace change, and think innovatively.
Among the top-ranking soft skills:
- Conflict mitigation (Ranked #2)
- Adaptability (#3)
- Innovative thinking (#5)
- Public speaking (#6)
- Solution-based selling (#7)
- Customer engagement and support (#8)
- Stakeholder management (#9)
What’s Driving the Surge in Soft Skills Demand?
The rise of AI plays a key role in this shift. As automation takes over technical tasks, the uniquely human skills—emotional intelligence, collaboration, and communication—are becoming the defining factors of success. Another major factor is workplace conflict. Studies indicate that workplace toxicity is on the rise, with 30% of U.S. job seekers reporting increased confrontational behavior from colleagues compared to three years ago.
Are You Ready to Showcase Your Soft Skills?
The good news? You likely already possess many of these skills—you just need to highlight them effectively. McCaskill advises professionals to list their soft skills on their resumes and be prepared with specific examples for interviews. Even for introverts, soft skills don’t necessarily mean becoming the loudest voice in the room.
The Future of Hiring: A Human Touch in a Tech-Driven World
As industries evolve, one thing remains clear: technical expertise alone is no longer enough. The ability to think critically, collaborate effectively, and navigate workplace dynamics will be the true differentiators in landing—and keeping—your dream job. So, as the job market shifts towards valuing human-centric skills, the question remains: Are you ready to embrace the soft skills revolution? If you want to stay ahead in your career, it’s time to start sharpening those skills that no AI can replace.