Do you know someone relying on AI to get things done? They may want to think twice before going all in. A recent Stanford University study about using AI for legal research (such as validating a court’s core ruling) confirmed that many AI models hallucinate at least 75% of the time. And that percentage isn’t much better than random guessing!
In the January series, Straight Talk about Soft Skills, we’re discussing three common misconceptions about soft skills (also known as work skills or people skills). The Stanford study instantly busts the myth that tech tools are all you need to succeed. The key is to use integrity to manage technology rather than being at the mercy of a tool to land or do a job.
The straight talk about the future of work is that how you human will continue to matter—even in the era of AI, search engines, and social media. It turns out judgment, wisdom gained from professional roles, and trustworthiness are still game-changers.
Let’s meet someone who empowered themselves by combining AI with real-life connections.
I caught up with Travis after a knock-out appearance at a panel discussion. “Congratulations!” I said. “I know you normally hate these things, but you were so relaxed and on point today. You should moderate more topics.”
“Thanks, but maybe I made it look too easy,” Travis laughed. “Preparing took a lot of effort, but I think it was worth it.”
“What made the difference? You used to do anything to get out of these invitations,” I asked.
“That’s true—speaking in public has always been at the bottom of my list,” Travis said, shaking his head. “But this panel was a must-have. I played around with ChatGPT, but nothing clicked until I talked with my brother-in-law. He gave me some pro tips from Toastmasters, and practicing during a few 1:1 pizza nights made me feel at ease. I don’t think I’ll ever love industry conferences, but now I have the tools I need. My days of making excuses are behind me.”
The case study sheds light on the idea that real world connections—whether you’re in a small meeting or giving a presentation—come to life with work skills, such as communicating with sincerity, humor, and depth. These OG competencies are mastered by leveraging technology with lived experience, not by viewing a single TikTok.
So, start making work skills personal instead of relying solely on AI or other tech tools. Those tools might wind up generating generic, commonplace ideas. By comparison, your self-confidence will soar as you build substance, then add in personal style and soul.
For instance, one way to practice is to rethink how you’ll introduce yourself in 2024. You might start with your current job title or a sample introduction that you generate online. But then make it personal and memorable by putting your most impactful skills front and center.
Here are three sentence starters combined with everyday work skills so it’s easy to understand how to communicate these concepts in the real world. These examples will kickstart your thinking; however, be sure to customize them for your role and industry:
* I bring to the table an ability to see and solve problems as they develop. My experience as a financial analyst has shown me there’s always a story behind the numbers.
* I can teach others how to combine coding and communication skills. I’ve been recognized as someone who can pitch technology projects to potential investors and non-developers.
* I make an impact with my customer service skills. Keeping a personal touch with my accounts helps me maximize productivity.
Back up aspirational statements with down-to-earth know-how—that’s how you’ll feel competent, equipped, and well-able. A year of improved self-confidence, easier days, and breakthrough opportunities is waiting. Make sure you’re skilled up!
Are you ready to take your people skills to the next level? Skip your favorite drip coffee and invest in yourself. Skill up with my new book at Amazon, Soft Skills Basics in a Flash.