Business Insider · 7 Sep, 18:49 · Business briefing

I coach executives. AI makes their emotional intelligence more valuable, not less.

A recent Business Insider article argues that artificial intelligence enhances, rather than diminishes, the value of emotional intelligence among executive leaders.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

A recent Business Insider article argues that artificial intelligence enhances, rather than diminishes, the value of emotional intelligence among executive leaders. The piece suggests that as AI handles routine analytical tasks, human-centric skills such as empathy, nuanced communication, and complex relationship management become increasingly critical. Executives are advised to leverage technology to free up cognitive capacity for deeper interpersonal engagement. This perspective challenges the narrative that automation replaces human judgment, positioning emotional intelligence as a key differentiator for senior professionals navigating an increasingly automated corporate landscape.

Employer demand for Leadership skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

You must prioritise developing your emotional intelligence to remain competitive. As AI automates technical and analytical workflows, your ability to navigate complex human dynamics, build trust, and lead with empathy becomes your primary differentiator. Focus on refining active listening, conflict resolution, and stakeholder management skills. Leaders who integrate AI tools to handle data-heavy tasks while dedicating more time to team development and strategic communication will thrive. You should actively seek feedback on your interpersonal effectiveness and invest in coaching that strengthens these soft skills. Ignoring this shift risks rendering your technical expertise obsolete, whereas mastering human connection ensures you lead effectively in an AI-augmented workplace.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are Leadership, Psychology, AI Strategy and Business And Management — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
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Matched to this story

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