The New York Times · 9 Oct, 09:01 · Technology briefing

Video: Opinion | Intelligence Isn’t Power

A recent New York Times opinion piece challenges the conventional assumption that raw intelligence equates to professional power.

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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 New York Times opinion piece challenges the conventional assumption that raw intelligence equates to professional power. The article argues that cognitive ability alone is insufficient for leadership success, suggesting that emotional intelligence, empathy, and collaborative skills are more critical drivers of influence. This perspective invites professionals to reconsider traditional meritocratic metrics, highlighting how interpersonal dynamics often outweigh technical brilliance in organisational hierarchies. For busy executives, this serves as a timely reminder that strategic impact relies heavily on human connection rather than solitary intellectual prowess.

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 soft skills alongside technical expertise to remain competitive. As organisations recognise that empathy and collaboration drive results, roles requiring high emotional intelligence will gain significant value. You should actively develop your leadership capabilities, focusing on active listening and conflict resolution. Ignore this shift at your peril; technical brilliance without relational competence will limit your upward mobility. Start by seeking feedback on your interpersonal style and enrolling in courses that enhance your ability to manage diverse teams. Proactively demonstrate these skills in daily interactions to build a reputation as a well-rounded leader. Your career trajectory now depends on how effectively you connect with others, not just how quickly you solve problems.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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