Canva Identifies Key Human Traits for Employee Success Amid AI Shift

Canva's Chief People Officer, Jennie Rogerson, recently outlined two fundamental human traits she believes are critical for employees to thrive amidst the ongoing disruption caused by artificial intelligence in the workplace.

Speaking last week at Charter’s New Employer Brand Summit in New York City, Rogerson identified curiosity as a foundational requirement. She further stressed the importance of the ability to "go the extra mile," which involves demonstrating initiative and responsibility to support the team beyond defined job descriptions. This could manifest as pursuing advanced certifications or integrating soft skills into daily work.

Career coaches and industry experts echo Rogerson's sentiments regarding the growing importance of these traits. London-based career coach Caroline Hickey noted that technical skills are no longer sufficient to secure one's career future. Hickey described curiosity as a "deeply human trait" and a "human superpower" that provides control over one's career in an AI-dominated world. She suggested that asking "why?" can help individuals understand root causes, pivot from setbacks, and transform digital disruptions into learning opportunities.

Melissa Swift, CEO of organizational consulting firm Anthrome Insight and author, also supported the value of pushing beyond immediate tasks, a capability she attributes to humans, unlike AI, which only executes programmed instructions. Swift emphasized the need for mental flexibility and stretch, acknowledging the impossibility of job definitions keeping pace with rapid technological advancements. She concluded that individuals who own outcomes perform differently than those merely assigned tasks.

According to Fast Company, these human traits are becoming increasingly paramount as AI continues to reshape professional landscapes.