10 Psychological strategies to skyrocket your career

News24

23-04-2025

Exciting things are happening in the world of work as AI continues to evolve, soft skills are still important.
However, while technology can mimic our interactions, it still can't quite capture the heart of interpersonal skills, emotions, and the intricate dynamics that make us human.
A significant consequence of the reshaping of workplaces by artificial intelligence, automation, and digital tools is that human skills that machines struggle to learn, and replicate are now in high demand.
The skill set identified as 'people' skills or 'soft' skills is now being referred to as the power skill set by the likes of the World Economic Forum and is considered the most in-demand skill set for the future workforce. This rise in the need for most human skills is impacting the choices that Gen Zs are making when it comes to their tertiary education.
To prepare themselves for the world of work, Gen Zs are increasingly seeking out study paths that give them opportunities to develop their emotional intelligence, critical thinking and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, collaboration, communication, empathy and ethics.
Read more | How employers can champion workplace mental health
Academic Dean at (The South African College of Applied Psychology) SACAP, Dr Jaclyn Lotter, says, 'Human skills have become even more relevant because we are at a pivotal time when people have to become much better at the skills and roles that machines cannot replace. There's also a significant ethical component to the rise of the machine, which will heighten as AI and digital tools become smarter and more powerful. The world has a great and growing need for decision-makers and leaders with strong ethical frameworks, which are at the very foundation of an education in psychology.'
'The oldest cohort of Gen Zs are now the emerging leaders in the workplace. And I think we can all acknowledge that South Africa, and the world, needs responsible, brave, adaptive, empathic and ethical leadership,' adds Dr Lotter
10 ways Gen Z can use psychology in their careers:
Enhance communication skills – Using your understanding of human behaviour improves how you communicate with colleagues, bosses, clients, customers and other stakeholders, reducing misunderstandings, improving collaboration and promoting shared success.
Master emotional intelligence – Managing your emotions and being able to accurately read others' cues makes you a better leader, team member, and service provider.
Improve conflict resolution – Recognising different perspectives and motivations helps you to more adeptly navigate workplace tensions and negotiate solutions that benefit everyone.
Boost leadership abilities – Leading a team and influencing without authoritarianism equips you with motivational and decision-making strategies to inspire others and build long-lasting trust.
Strengthen problem-solving skills – Applying psychological principles to decision-making helps you assess situations critically, adapt to change, and find creative solutions.
Manage stress and build resilience – Workplace pressures and challenges are inevitable, but psychological techniques like mindfulness and cognitive reframing help maintain your mental well-being.
Understand consumer and market behaviour – Once the domain of marketing, sales and business development, now insights into customer motivations, persuasion and buying patterns are expected to be understood across the organisation.
Navigate workplace dynamics – Understanding personality types and behavioural patterns helps you adapt to different work styles and build stronger professional relationships. An education in psychology also helps you to recognise diversity, enhance your cultural sensitivity, uncover your own biases and become a champion of inclusion in your workplace.
Balance work and life effectively – Psychology promotes self-awareness, which helps you set boundaries, manage burnout, and develop strategies for maintaining personal well-being alongside career growth. It also helps you to advocate for and contribute to a workplace that prioritises everyone's well-being.
Fuel career growth, lifelong learning and a growth mindset – Self-awareness, motivation and goal-setting techniques rooted in psychology can help you continuously evolve in your career and position you to recognise and seize new opportunities.