CBRE

Lorena Santibanez

Regional HR Advisor

We are living through one of the most exciting and transformative challenges as Human Resources leaders. Over the past few years, the rapid evolution of AI has not only reshaped the global economy but also shifted hiring trends across traditional professions.

As a result, we are seeing a slowdown in hiring familiar roles, while the demand is growing for engineers and product managers who can identify which problems AI can solve. There is also a rising need for strategists who are adept at distinguishing which workflows should be automated and which aspects of our operations still benefit from a human touch. 

Human Skills are becoming the Real Differentiator

We truly find ourselves during technological transformation, and it is a privilege to help guide our organizations and teams through these changes. This moment calls for creativity, adaptability and vision as we redefine the skills and roles needed for the future. Looking ahead, one of our biggest challenges will be to accurately identify the evolving development needs for our employees. Whit so many aspects of work becoming automated, it is crucial to focus on the competencies that set us apart as individuals. 

Skills such as empathy, sound judgment, the ability to read the room and the courage to push back or ask the right questions are becoming more critical than ever. As automation takes over routine tasks, these uniquely human capabilities are likely to be the ones that truly matter. The more advanced technology becomes, the greater our need for individuals who can bridge the gap—translating complex tools and systems into practical solutions that benefit everyone.

Supporting Employee Well-Being in an Era of Uncertainty

However, this surge is also bringing about a new wave of workplace anxiety among employees. As AI continues to reshape job roles and responsibilities, many workers are finding themselves uncertain about their job security and how their roles may evolve in the coming months or years. This uncertainty can be daunting, leading to heightened levels of stress that have the potential to impact not just productivity, but the overall health and well-being of employees.

“As automation takes over routine tasks, these uniquely human capabilities are likely to be the ones that truly matter.”

Employees who are worried about job displacement or adapting to new expectations may experience stress in different forms—ranging from difficulty concentrating and decreased motivation to more serious symptoms like insomnia or anxiety. When left unaddressed, these stresses can accumulate, affecting both individual performance and team dynamics. Recognizing these challenges, organizations have an opportunity and a responsibility to prioritize investments in mental health programs. By implementing tailored programs and making resources easily accessible, employers can provide meaningful support to employees navigating these changes.

Such investments are more than just compassionate gestures—they are strategic moves that can build resilience across our employees. When employees feel supported and know their mental health is a priority, they are better equipped to adapt to new technologies and evolve job requirements. Accessible mental health resources, such as counseling, stress management workshops and peer support groups, help foster a culture of well-being. This culture, in turn, encourages open communication and empowers employees to voice concerns and seek help when needed.

Prioritizing employee mental health during times of technological transformation is crucial. It signals that the organization cares deeply for its people, while also ensuring the workforce remains engaged, resilient and ready to meet new challenges. Investing in mental health is not just the right thing to do, it is a wise and strategic decision for any organization facing rapid change.

Let’s continue to embrace the opportunities that this transformation presents and work together to ensure our teams are ready for what is next.