Hard and Soft Skills Go Hand-in-Hand — These Are the Ones You Need to Sharpen This Year
The coming year promises to be one of change, which can be daunting and exciting. While it’s important to stay on top of new technologies, the key will be sharpening those soft skills.
Top 3 Leadership Skills for 2025
As the workplace continues to evolve, so must the people leading it. According to Aytekin Tank, founder and CEO of Jotform, the most effective leaders in 2025 will be those who embrace change and sharpen key human-centered skills. Here are the top three to focus on:
- AI Literacy
AI isn’t just for tech teams anymore—leaders need to understand how to use it responsibly. That means more than just knowing the tools; it includes being aware of the risks, like algorithmic bias and data privacy concerns. Leaders should be able to ask smart questions, make ethical decisions around AI use, and guide their teams in using it effectively and transparently. - Motivational Skills
The ability to inspire others is becoming increasingly valuable. Employees today want to feel connected to the bigger picture. Leaders who can clearly communicate the “why” behind the work, create meaning in day-to-day tasks, and build a strong sense of purpose within their teams will have a major advantage in retaining talent and driving engagement. - Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
While tech skills are important, emotional intelligence is what helps leaders stand out. With research suggesting a global decline in EQ, those who can manage stress, read the room, and respond with empathy will be better equipped to lead through uncertainty and foster trust across diverse teams.
These three skills—AI literacy, motivational strength, and emotional intelligence—are not just nice to have. They’re must-haves for any leader looking to stay effective and relevant in the years ahead.
Read the full article: https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/these-are-the-top-3-skills-all-leaders-need-in-2025/483795
