Communication, empathy, and judgment were dismissed for years as 'soft skills', sidelined while technical expertise dominated training and promotion. A new perspective argues that these human competencies are fundamental to resilience and transformation.

Researchers and practitioners emphasise that AI can expedite decision-making but cannot replace human judgment, trust, or narrative. Failures in leadership often stem from a lack of human capacity rather than technical gaps.

Redefining skills like decision-making, adaptability, and emotional intelligence as measurable behaviours helps organisations train and evaluate leaders effectively. Embedding these human disciplines ensures transformation holds under pressure and uncertainty.

Career and cultures are strengthened when leaders are assessed on their ability to build trust, resolve conflicts, and influence through storytelling. Without funding the human core alongside technical skills, strategies collapse, and talent disengages.