As AI continues to reshape the way we work, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush to adopt the latest tech. But for small businesses, the real competitive edge lies not just in automation but in the uniquely human capabilities that technology can’t replicate: soft skills.
In fact, in an increasingly AI-driven business landscape, soft skills are becoming the superpower of small teams. When you can’t rely on large departments or endless resources, strong communication, empathy, and adaptability can be the glue that holds your business together. Here are the top five soft skills every small business should encourage within their teams.
1. Emotional intelligence (EQ)
AI can analyse data and predict trends, pick up on tone, context and underlying concerns. However, it is not as adaptable in reading the nuances of a changing situation and can easily misinterpret, if its logic model is flawed. In other words, it can’t read the room. Emotional intelligence (the ability to understand and manage your own emotions while empathising with others) is crucial for building strong relationships with clients and colleagues.
Why it matters: In a small team, tensions can rise quickly when workloads increase or priorities shift. Leaders and employees with high EQ can navigate these moments with empathy, ensuring that challenges don’t turn into conflicts.
How to build it: Regular check-ins, open communication, and even simple practices like active listening can help your team develop emotional intelligence.
2. Adaptability
AI is transforming industries at lightning speed. For small businesses, being able to pivot quickly is essential.
Why it matters: Small teams often wear multiple hats. The more adaptable your team is, the easier it becomes to embrace change rather than resist it.
How to build it: Encourage a growth mindset by celebrating problem-solving efforts, even when they don’t lead to immediate success. Flexibility training and scenario-based workshops can also sharpen this critical skill.
3. Communication
Good communication ensures that everyone stays aligned. It’s a non-negotiable for small businesses where miscommunication can derail projects.
Why it matters: AI can draft emails, but it can’t pick up on tone, context, or underlying concerns. Clear, concise, and empathetic communication ensures smooth collaboration and stronger client relationships.
How to build it: Consider short, focused training sessions on active listening, non-verbal communication, and getting better at building feedback loops into your daily operations.
4. Collaboration and teamwork
AI might streamline workflows, but it can’t build trust. Effective teamwork means understanding each other’s strengths, respecting differences, and working toward shared goals.
Why it matters: In a small business, teamwork is the foundation of daily operations. The stronger your team’s collaboration, the more resilient your business becomes.
How to build it: Regular team-building activities, clear role definitions, and project debriefs can strengthen collaborative bonds.
5. Critical thinking and problem-solving
While AI can suggest solutions based on patterns, it can’t navigate the nuances of real-world challenges, especially those that involve people.
Why it matters: Small businesses often face resource constraints, making creative problem-solving an essential skill for overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities.
How to build it: Encourage brainstorming sessions, ‘what if’ scenarios, and constructive debates to flex your team’s critical thinking muscles.
In short, don’t let the distractions of AI derail you from investing in your people. The businesses that will thrive in the AI era aren’t just the most tech-savvy: they’re the ones that know how to balance technology with humanity.
Contributed by Karlie Cremin, co-founder and managing director of DLPA