Navigating the human-machine mix in Scotland’s finance sector

How soft skills will remain despite AI becoming a colleague

In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace, the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) has reshaped how several industries work.

Despite AI’s skyrocketing growth, Scotland’s finance sector is one that has consistently relied on the soft skills of industry workers to help make decisions, build relationships, and ultimately help businesses in the sector succeed.

As businesses embrace AI to enhance productivity and operational efficiency, it’s clear that the landscape of the workplace is undergoing a transformative shift – while AI is excelling in handling routine tasks, the true potential of a workforce is unlocked when the power of AI is complemented by unique human attributes that cannot be replicated.

At Core-Asset Consulting, we’ve been banging the drum about the pivotal role soft skills play in the industry despite the rise of AI.

We’ve worked closely with some of the sector’s top firms to source candidates that not only have the qualities to lead a team and communicate, but also have the intelligence to know when to use AI for automatable tasks.

We feel that soft skills are the competitive edge in recruitment. While AI excels at processing vast amounts of data and performing specific tasks, it lacks the innate creativity that a candidate or employee brings to the table. These skills can encompass a range of interpersonal, emotional and communication abilities that contribute to a workplace.

Communication and collaboration

Communication and collaboration go far beyond the exchange of information. It involves the art of conveying ideas, emotions, and messages in a clear manner to reach a shared goal. When we’re working with a business to find the right candidate, the right blend of technical expertise and human qualities is paramount; individuals with strong communication and collaboration skills emerge as a true asset.

Creativity

Tapping into human intuition and imagination equips your team with the innovative thinking necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace. It’s a skill massively underrated in the finance industry and one we are constantly on the hunt for.

Problem-solving

While AI lacks intuitive understanding, the ability to analyse complex situations, identify challenges, and devise effective solutions will always remain, and is an absolute must when a business is hiring for any position within the industry.

Leadership

We’re always on the hunt for candidates that possess leadership – the ability to guide, inspire and influence others towards achieving a common goal. While leaders can drive forward huge projects among large groups, they also tend to be intuitive and can clearly prompt AI to pick up elements of mundane tasks.

Soft skills play a crucial role in creating a well-rounded workforce. They are the human touch that complements the technical proficiency of AI. As the workplace undergoes a significant transformation with the integration of automation and AI, it's clear that soft skills remain an invaluable asset.

At Core-Asset, our commitment to understanding the symbiotic relationship between technological advancements and human qualities is at the heart of our tailored recruitment services.

We believe that AI is not a threat to jobs; it's a catalyst for the creation of new and meaningful work, allowing us to redefine the future of the workplace.

Founded by respected entrepreneur Betsy Williamson in 2005, Core-Asset Consulting is Scotland’s pre-eminent recruitment and headhunting agency dedicated to financial and professional services.

Based in Edinburgh, the £26m firm employs 16 people and works across the entire financial services sector, from the smallest boutiques to the biggest global players.