Linkedin named Creativity the #1 Soft Skill in 2021 along with Persuasion, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Emotional Intelligence. Those who were creative in personal and business pivots were more adaptable and resilient in the face of the pandemic.

The Future of Jobs Report by the World Economic Forum moved Creativity from #10 in 2015 to #3 in 2020. Note that creativity is a big contributor to both problem solving (#1 in 2020) and critical thinking (#2).

The key question is why is creativity the #1 softskill now?

Because it’s transformational at a personal, team, and company level.

It’s our last advantage against machines. And it has the power for employees to feel seen and heard, bring their whole selves to work, and to be truly satisfied and fulfilled with their work.

It’s also the unique element that gives individuals, teams, and companies the competitive advantage they need to stand out against competition.

Creativity can turn a disadvantage into an advantage. It can create a failed concept into a new product.

It can turn a quiet introvert into the superstar at the all-hands.

It can rejuvenate a jaded team with fresh energy. Recharge its batteries to be ready for anything.

Read the next article to learn about how each generation has become more creative and why GenZ demands creativity in the workplace.