The Lost Art of Being Human in the Workplace

Richard Roper, president of Marsh People and Investment (Hong Kong & Macau), has taken a refreshingly old-fashioned approach to preparing his two daughters for the workforce. He shared three decades’ worth of career advice with them in the form of a list, dubbed “daddy tips,” which included basic human interaction skills like showing up on time and bringing value to a meeting.

The latest crop of graduates entering the workforce is often characterized by their proficiency in technology and innovation, but there’s one skill that’s increasingly scarce: basic human interaction. As we hurtle towards an era where AI assumes more responsibilities, employers are finding themselves at a loss for how to teach Gen Z workers the value of being human.

The research is clear: Gen Z workers are lacking essential people skills. They struggle to interact with coworkers and clients, have difficulty working with those who hold different opinions, and often don’t grasp basic office etiquette. The irony is that these very same skills – enthusiasm, politeness, respect, and the ability to bring value to a meeting – were once considered fundamental to success.

Roper’s list of tips may seem simplistic, but it’s a much-needed reminder that there’s still value in the human touch. In an age where virtual communication is increasingly prevalent, these skills are more crucial than ever. His daughters’ workplaces will likely be grateful for this foundation.

Employers often try to plug the gap with etiquette classes and soft skills training, but some have resorted to firing unprepared staffers – a drastic measure that raises questions about whether we’re valuing human interaction over technological prowess. Meanwhile, Roper’s approach has sparked debate among business leaders, including Grindr CEO George Arison, who plans to bring his children into the office at 10 years old to instill a love of work and grit.

As we navigate this increasingly complex workplace landscape, it’s essential that we remember the importance of human interaction. Roper’s “daddy tips” may seem like a throwback to a bygone era, but they’re a much-needed reminder that being human is still a valuable asset in the modern workforce. Employers and business leaders must prioritize these essential people skills – not just for their employees’ sake, but for the future of the workplace itself.

In an era dominated by technology, we risk losing sight of what truly sets us apart as humans: our ability to connect with one another. Roper’s “daddy tips” serve as a poignant reminder that there’s still value in being human – in being enthusiastic, polite, and respectful; in thinking about others and making their lives easier.

As we continue down the path of prioritizing technological advancements over interpersonal skills, we risk creating a workforce that’s ill-equipped to navigate complex social situations. The consequences are already being felt: Gen Z workers struggle to form meaningful connections with coworkers and clients, leading to decreased productivity and increased turnover rates.

The future of work is uncertain, but one thing is clear: we need to prioritize human interaction if we’re going to thrive in an increasingly complex workplace landscape. Roper’s approach may seem old-fashioned, but it’s a much-needed reminder that there’s still value in being human – and that this value will only continue to grow as technology assumes more responsibilities.

By prioritizing essential people skills like enthusiasm, politeness, and respect, we can create a workforce that’s truly equipped to succeed in the modern era. As business leaders and employers, it’s time for us to reevaluate our priorities and create workplaces that foster human interaction, not just technological advancement.