Can AI emulate soft skills? The future of work in the balance

Debate on the future of work abounds largely motivated by the emerging demands of the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution. In parallel, talent training and recruitment based on Soft Skills are at an all-time high. Therefore, it seems increasingly clear that the future work will not only increase demand for technological understanding, interaction and acumen, but also the ability to communicate and interact effectively with other people in all social environments. This multivariate of technology, talent and effective social interactions requires broad and profound analysis of the changing nature of work which is at the core of Human Centered Management. This chapter compares artificial intelligence with practical and emotional intelligence in order to evaluate human- centered leadership, enhancing the role of Soft Skills necessary to overcome a resource-centered vision of organizations. The chapter discusses a future where the social purpose of organizations and the wellbeing of workers is essential for organizational sustainability offering best products and services that continuously increase the wellbeing of users and customers and the collective community and society.