Three Essential Skills AI Cannot Master, According to McKinsey

Artificial intelligence is transforming the workforce at McKinsey & Company, but its Global Managing Partner, Bob Sternfels, highlights vital human skills that AI has yet to replicate.

The Role of AI at McKinsey

At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Sternfels shared insights on AI's impact on McKinsey, revealing that AI saved the firm 1.5 million hours last year in tasks like research and data synthesis. AI agents, of which the company boasts 25,000, have also produced 2.5 million charts in a span of six months.

Human Skills in an AI-Driven World

Despite AI advancements, Sternfels outlined three core abilities that remain uniquely human: having aspirations, exercising judgment, and fostering true creativity.

Inspiring Aspiration

AI lacks the ability to envision bold dreams or set meaningful aspirations. For instance, technological models can't originate the vision of exploring space—from orbiting Earth to reaching Mars. Sternfels encourages young professionals to cultivate this kind of visionary thinking and to rally others around their dreams.

Harnessing Judgement

AI models do not inherently understand the nuances of decision-making. Human judgment comes into play when setting parameters within the framework of company values and broader social principles. Developing such discerning skills is crucial in navigating AI environments where definitive right or wrong answers are elusive.

The Power of True Creativity

AI can replicate and infer, but stepping outside established norms to generate something genuinely original remains the domain of human creativity. This orthogonal approach allows humans to devise novel solutions and break from predictable patterns.

Evolving Talent Acquisition

As AI influences the corporate landscape, Sternfels noted the changing criteria for hiring talent. The focus is shifting away from prestigious educational credentials towards demonstrable skills. For those with tech expertise, showcasing their projects on platforms like GitHub may carry more weight than their alma mater.

This openness to varied educational paths could diversify and expand the talent pool, prompting a reassessment of traditional qualifications in favor of actual abilities and achievements.