Helping Gen Z Build the Skills AI Can’t Replace

As a parent of a Gen Z college student, I’ve gone from worrying about SAT scores and college applications to a new (and just as nerve-wracking) question: “Will she actually find a job after graduation?” 

It’s a common parental fear—especially with headlines full of layoffs, AI disruption, and stories about entry-level jobs disappearing. The job market is shifting fast, and no one is sure what roles will even exist in five years, let alone which skills will still matter.

But while the news often focuses on what AI is taking away, there's a quieter, more hopeful message hiding in plain sight. The same sources emphasize that the skills AI can’t replicate—human skills—are becoming more valuable than ever.  

We’re talking about:

• Critical thinking
• Conflict resolution
• Professional communication
• Timeliness
• Self-motivation  

My conviction that these human skills matter isn’t just parental bias—it’s based on my 20 years of working in global employment programs. I’ve heard the same thing from employers again and again: Hard skills get your foot in the door; human skills determine how far you’ll go.

And U.S. data backs this up:

73% of employers say Gen Z struggles with workplace communication. (Intelligent.com 2024)
3 in 4 companies say recent grads fall short on essential workplace skills. (Fortune 2024)

Some employers I’ve spoken with even report that showing up for a scheduled interview is no longer a given.

And that’s why equipping early career professionals with these human skills is our focus at Career Rising.  

Career Rising’s approach uses:

• Interactive case studies where clients work through real workplace dilemmas
• Peer learning that helps Gen Z connect, learn from each other, and practice in safe, supported spaces
• In-person workshops to get beyond online trainings that fail to engage and challenge young adults.

So what should young professionals do to showcase these skills in job applications, resumes, and interviews?

• On LinkedIn, include recommendations that highlight your leadership or teamwork.
• In your resume, don’t just say you “collaborated”—show the impact you made. Did you organize a group project? Did your initiative improve something? Add the results.

The job market may be changing fast, but one thing remains constant: Human skills still matter—and we think they matter more than ever. Whether you’re a student, a parent, an educator, or an employer, investing in these skills isn’t just smart—it’s essential.