The Unexpected Skill You Need to Thrive in 2030 (Hint: It's Not AI)

The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently released its Future of Jobs Report 2025, predicting the skills that will be most in demand by the end of the decade. While tech skills like AI and data analysis are high on the list, nestled among them is a surprising contender: empathy. This isn't just a feel-good notion; the WEF backs it up with hard data, recognising empathy as essential for navigating the complex challenges and opportunities of our rapidly changing world.

But why is empathy so important, and how can you cultivate it?

Empathy: More Than Just a Soft Skill

Empathy is the ability to understand another person's perspective and create space for them to be their authentic selves, without judgment. It's about truly listening, seeking to understand their experiences, and responding in a way that acknowledges their feelings. This goes beyond surface-level kindness and requires conscious effort and practice.

While often categorised as a "soft skill," the WEF's research shows that empathy is actually a powerful driver of success in all aspects of life.

A team of workers who know the future is human skills based 😉 (Image generated using AI)

Why the WEF Says Empathy Matters:

• Stronger Relationships and Collaboration: In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to build and maintain strong relationships is crucial. Empathy allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering trust and understanding. This leads to more effective collaboration, better communication, and stronger teams.
  

• Effective Conflict Resolution: Disagreements and conflicts are inevitable, but empathy can help us navigate them constructively. By understanding the perspectives of all parties involved, we can find common ground and reach solutions that benefit everyone.
  

• Adaptability and Resilience: The world is changing faster than ever before. Technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and economic uncertainty require us to be adaptable and resilient. Empathy allows us to embrace new perspectives, understand different cultures, and adjust to changing circumstances. This adaptability is key for thriving in the future of work.

  
  

The WEF's recognition of empathy as a core skill for 2030 is a call to action for individuals, educators, and organisations.

Empathy in Action: Real-World Examples

Empathy isn't just a theoretical concept; it has tangible, real-world applications. Here are some practical examples of how empathy can make a difference:

• In the classroom: A teacher who notices a student struggling can take simple, practical steps to support them. For example, asking students to anonymously write on a post-it note, "the most important thing happening in your life right now." This quick exercise helps teachers understand their students’ priorities and challenges without making them feel exposed. With these insights, teachers can provide tailored support, like breaking tasks into smaller steps for overwhelmed students or connecting them with resources. Small actions like this build trust, foster stronger relationships and create a more supportive learning environment.
  

• In the workplace: A manager who understands their team’s perspectives can lead more effectively by incorporating empathy into daily interactions. For example, they could start by implementing a "check-in question" at the beginning of team meetings, such as, "What’s one thing on your mind today?" This gives team members a chance to share personal or professional concerns, fostering open communication. Actively listening to these responses—without interrupting or jumping to solutions—and following up later shows genuine care. Additionally, taking time to acknowledge individual contributions publicly or through a quick note of appreciation can make team members feel valued. These small, practical actions build trust, improve morale, and create a more positive and productive work environment.

  
  

• In our communities: Imagine a police officer who takes time to build relationships with the community they serve. Instead of just responding to incidents, they make an effort to engage in small, consistent ways. For example, an officer might stop by the local U11s football training on a park field every week for just five minutes during their shift. Over time, they start to recognise the kids, and the kids recognise them. With a simple question like, "How did you lads do at the weekend?" they show genuine interest. This seemingly small act builds connection and trust, putting a relatable face to the title of ‘Police.’ Long-term, these interactions can strengthen relationships between young people and law enforcement, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It may even contribute to crime prevention by breaking down barriers and building a sense of community.

  
  

  

  A policeman visiting community football group. (Image generated using AI)

  
  
  
  

Cultivating Empathy: A Lifelong Journey

The good news is that empathy is a skill that can be developed and strengthened with conscious effort by:

• Active listening: This one get's said a lot but what does it actually mean? For us it's about recognising both verbal and nonverbal communication. Ask clarifying questions and reflect back what you've heard to ensure understanding. You can start a clarifying sentence as simply as "So, if I'm understanding you correctly you said this..." Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice and think about the environment and space you're in. So many people overlook the importance of where a conversation takes place - it can make or break important communication.

  
  

• Seek diverse perspectives: Step outside of your comfort zone and engage with people who have different backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs. A 2018 YouGov study found that one-third of white Britons have no friends from ethnic minority backgrounds, across socio-economic backgrounds and sexual orientation highlighting the importance of actively building connections across cultural lines. This could involve attending community events, volunteering, or simply striking up conversations with people you wouldn't normally interact with. By doing so, you not only expand your worldview but also help bridge societal divides.

  
  

• Read and watch stories: Engaging with stories through books, films, and other media can help us develop empathy by exposing us to a wide range of human experiences. Choose stories that highlight diverse perspectives and challenge your own assumptions.

  
  

• Practice self-reflection: Take time to reflect on your own thoughts, feelings, and biases. Consider how your experiences have shaped your perspective and how you might be unintentionally judging others.

  
  

These are just a few steps you can take to build your empathy muscle. The key is to make it a conscious practice and to consistently challenge yourself to grow.

Bringing people together to share experiences, listen to stories and connect is a vital part of any long-term empathy development. (Photo - Empathy Studios)

The Future is Human-Centred

In a world increasingly shaped by technology, it's easy to believe that technical skills alone will guarantee success. However, the WEF's emphasis on empathy reminds us that the future is still human-centred.

Empathy Studios, in alignment with the WEF's vision, believes that empathy is the foundation for a more compassionate and connected world. By empowering educators to cultivate empathy in their students, we're preparing the next generation to navigate the complexities of the future with resilience, compassion, and understanding. If you want to see how we’re building the skill of empathy, check out our page and also our Empathy Week festival.

Invest in empathy. It's the skill that will shape the future – and your success.