Managers · 4 min read

AI in the Workplace: Why We All Need to Be More Human

24 July 2025

The Age of AI Is Here - But So Are We

From generative content tools to automated workflows, AI is transforming the workplace faster than ever. But while the tech evolves, the need for human skills becomes even more critical. At PUSH, we believe in amplifying humanity in the age of automation. Because emotional intelligence, empathy, and collaboration are the skills that will future-proof your people and your performance.

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According to McKinsey's 2025 report, The State of AI: How Organisations Are Rewiring to Capture Value , 78% of companies now use AI in at least one function. But those that are thriving aren’t automating humans out - they’re building stronger partnerships between AI and people.

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This aligns with the approach outlined in the book More Human: How the Power of AI Can Transform the Way You Lead by Rasmus Hougaard and Jacqueline Carter. As Hougaard and Carter argue, AI doesn’t eliminate the need for leadership - it demands a new kind of leadership: one rooted in empathy, compassion, and foresight.

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Why Human Skills Are the Real Competitive Advantage

Human skills in the age of AI are what turn automation into innovation. As machines take over more routine tasks, the uniquely human capabilities become the differentiator.

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Key capabilities include:

Emotional intelligence at work: Navigating tension, communicating effectively, and supporting others.

Empathy in the workplace: Building trust, especially in remote and hybrid teams.

Creativity in the workplace: Innovating, ideating, imagining - tasks that machines can't truly master.

Interpersonal communication: Understanding tone, context, and impact.

Adaptability and resilience: Thriving in change, not just surviving it.

Hougaard and Carter frame these human capacities as essential, not optional, for leaders navigating the AI era. Their work reinforces PUSH’s belief that leadership now requires more presence , not less.

AI and Human Collaboration: A Powerful Partnership

Rather than viewing AI as a threat, organisations are beginning to embrace the concept of AI and human collaboration. AI can:

Automate admin and repetitive tasks

Provide predictive insights

Accelerate decision-making

Assist in content creation and research

But it’s the human who makes those insights meaningful, the creative who brings originality, and the leader who builds teams that trust and thrive.

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As Kristen Ludgate, Chief People Officer at HP, writes in her endorsement of More Human , this is about amplifying human potential, not replacing it.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of AI in the Workplace

Understanding both sides of the AI equation is key for leadership.

Advantages:

Enhanced productivity and efficiency

Data-informed decision-making

Round-the-clock capability

Scalability and consistency

Disadvantages:

Risk of depersonalisation and disconnection

Challenges in ethical decision-making

Over-reliance on tech for leadership tasks

Potential for bias in algorithmic outputs

As highlighted in PwC’s 2024 AI and Productivity Report , the organisations that benefit most from AI are those that combine it with upskilling and leadership support.

Leadership in the Age of AI

In this new era, leaders aren’t just managing systems, they’re coaching humans. Management training and employee coaching become vital tools to:

Coach teams through complexity

Drive connection in hybrid teams

Manage conflict with empathy

Reinforce culture and trust

Deloitte’s 2025 Human Capital Trends report found that 94% of leaders believe "human capabilities" like empathy, collaboration, and emotional resilience are mission-critical for navigating AI-powered change.

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Paul Daugherty, co-author of Human + Machine and former CTO at Accenture, echoes this when he says the real investment must be in people, not just technology. That’s exactly what PUSH does - empowers people to lead with impact.

How to Develop Interpersonal Skills at Work

Upskilling in human capabilities isn’t a one-time event - it’s a continuous practice. PUSH specialises in:

Team development programmes to build trust and cohesion

Leadership training that focuses on emotional intelligence, connection, and presence

Management development to foster clarity, confidence, and culture

Management coaching to help leaders deal with uncertainty, people dynamics, and personal effectiveness

Our programmes and sessions help people reconnect with what it means to be human at work.

Remote and Hybrid Teams: Human Skills Matter More Than Ever

The challenges of virtual work can create gaps in communication, engagement and wellbeing. We support companies through:

Sessions on mental health, resilience and wellbeing

Training for empathy in the workplace and emotional intelligence

Building connection in remote and hybrid teams

These sessions aren’t just a nice-to-have. They’re business critical. Because people who feel valued and connected perform better.

AI Automation and the Future of Work

Looking ahead, AI will continue to shape roles, workflows and expectations. According to PwC’s AI's Impact on Jobs (2024) , roles with high human interaction, creativity, and problem-solving are among the least likely to be replaced. That’s why investing in human skills is the smartest decision you can make.

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As Brandon Carson of Starbucks puts it, “We must lead with both heart and foresight in the age of AI”.

Let PUSH Help You Stay Ahead in the Age of AI in the Workplace

Whether you're looking to:

Build a more connected team

Improve communication across generations

Equip managers for the future of work

Elevate employee wellbeing

PUSH can help. We combine behavioural science, coaching, and dynamic delivery to future-proof your people. To find out more, explore our management training programmes , or contact us .

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