The Skills That Matter in 2026: AI, EQ and the Future of Work

<p>The skills employers value are changing fast. So what will actually make you valuable in 2026 and beyond?</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode of Espresso with Lewis, Lewis Maleh breaks down LinkedIn&#39;s latest Skills on the Rise report and shares his biggest takeaways for anyone thinking about their career, their team or the future of work.</p><p><br></p><p>From AI literacy and strategic thinking to emotional intelligence and relationship building, Lewis explores why the future isn&#39;t simply about becoming more technical. As AI becomes embedded into more jobs, the skills that make us distinctly human could become even more valuable.</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode:</p><p>• Why AI literacy is becoming a baseline skill<br>• The human skills AI will struggle to replace<br>• Why strategic thinking is becoming more important<br>• Why EQ and cultural intelligence aren&#39;t &quot;soft skills&quot;<br>• How AI is changing the role of managers<br>• Why traditional, linear careers are changing<br>• What younger generations want from their careers<br>• Why your ability to learn could matter more than years of experience<br>• How to keep your skills relevant as work continues to change</p><p>The takeaway is simple: don&#39;t stand still.</p><p>You don&#39;t need to become an AI expert overnight, but you do need to keep learning, experimenting and developing the skills that will matter in the years ahead.</p><p><br></p><p>----</p><p>🎙️ <em>Espresso with Lewis — practical leadership insights, no fluff.</em></p><p><br></p><p>Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmaleh</p><p>Learn more: https://bentleylewis.com</p>