Employers seeking more human skills over AI

A new survey shows that younger candidates are focusing on AI skills, while employers are instead seeking more ‘human’ skills.

Employers are still looking for graduates with technical and analytical abilities, but also want candidates to have softer skills such as teamwork, initiative, coachability and emotional intelligence.

The 2025 Prospective Students Survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) includes responses from nearly 5,000 candidates worldwide and shows a disconnect between the skills employers expect and what prospective business school students aim to develop.

Nalisha Patel, Regional Director, Americas & Europe, at GMAC, said, “Candidates continue to underestimate the importance of people skills.

“Business schools need to help students understand that these are not ‘nice to have’, they’re dealbreakers. There’s a gap between what students think will get them hired and what does… Schools can help close that gap.

“The findings are a clear message to business schools: integrate AI, but don’t sideline human development. Meeting both employer and student expectations is key to remaining relevant and delivering real value.”

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