3 Crucial Skills to Succeed in the Workplace According to a Harvard-trained Psychiatrist

By Moon Harper

Dec 18, 2023 05:41 AM EST

In the dynamic landscape of contemporary workplaces, characterized by the advent of remote work and the integration of artificial intelligence, the paradigm for career success is undergoing a transformative shift.

According to insights from the esteemed Gabriella Rosen Kellerman, traditional skill sets are evolving, paving the way for a new 'top three' list that professionals must cultivate. In this era of change, staying ahead requires a strategic focus on skills that resonate with the demands of an ever-evolving work environment.

3 Skills to Help You Thrive

To thrive in today's workplaces, Kellerman, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and executive at BetterUp, emphasizes the importance of resilience, social connection, and a sense of purpose. These fundamental skills are crucial for navigating the uncertainties of our modern era and determining who can succeed in such dynamic environments, as highlighted in her interview with CNBC Make It. The concepts originate from the book "Tomorrowmind," co-authored by Kellerman and psychologist Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania earlier this year.

Resilience

Defined as the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook in the face of challenges, according to Kellerman, resilience encompasses five key elements: optimism, cognitive agility, self-compassion, self-efficacy, and emotional regulation. Collectively, these three components contribute to an individual's ability to bounce back from setbacks and navigate challenges effectively in various aspects of life, including the workplace.

Social Connection

Lonelier individuals tend to receive lower performance ratings at work, and research highlights the positive impact of work friendships on productivity and decision-making skills. Overcoming obstacles to social connection is crucial, according to Kellerman. The first obstacle, lack of time, can be addressed by utilizing brief moments after meetings for non-work-related conversations. For remote or hybrid workers, facing physical space challenges is the second obstacle. Kellerman suggests prioritizing video and phone calls over emails to build trust. The third obstacle, termed "us/them" by Seligman and Kellerman, involves categorizing others. To foster effective collaboration, individuals can recategorize by identifying commonalities and overcoming mental barriers, ultimately promoting the golden rule of leadership and teamwork.

Labeling someone as "them" in our minds hinders the necessary connection for effective collaboration and the creation of innovative ideas, explains Kellerman.

Mattering

As stated by Kellerman, having a sense of meaning and purpose in your work is crucial because it motivates you to work hard. Even if your job may not seem inherently life-changing, knowing that you are helping another person is meaningful. When you feel your work doesn't matter, distinguish whether it's an internal or external feeling. If it's the office culture, suggest that managers regularly show employees their impact. If you feel personally unimpactful, track your achievements, big and small, to see your personal growth, making your work feel more important.

As we navigate a new era of work, human skills are becoming crucial for personal and organizational success in the digital age. Supporting individuals in developing these skills increases the likelihood of building a better future for themselves and their organizations.