3 Keys to a Thriving Workplace: Boosting Performance, Culture, and Mastering Skills
2025 is turning out to be a game-changing year for how we work. AI, generative tech, and flexible work models are completely transforming the way companies think about talent and productivity.
Here is some insight to how AI is reshaping skills to the latest thinking on workplace flexibility and creating amazing employee experiences.
1. Power Skills Boost Employee Performance
Power skills training is often ignored at work, even though it’s really important. Only 35% of companies offer strong power skills programs, even though 63% of employees say that learning these skills helps them do their job better. Power skills training includes things like leadership programs, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence.
How the training is delivered makes a difference. In-person training works best, with 51% of people saying it’s very helpful. Offering professional development is also important for keeping employees happy. Many workers say they leave jobs because they don’t get enough growth opportunities. This shows there’s a gap between what employees want and what companies offer, making it clear that training strategies need to improve.
An important takeaway: workplace culture is key to employee engagement. It’s not just about pay—creating a place where people feel excited to work and grow is what really matters.
2. A Great Workplace Culture Makes All the Difference
As work continues to change, employees are focusing more on what makes a job truly rewarding. The "emotional paycheck" refers to the non-money benefits that matter most—like flexible work hours, a positive workplace culture, and perks that support personal well-being. These things, such as access to wellness apps or a supportive team, have become key to keeping employees motivated and happy.
Our research shows that in today’s job market, company culture is more important than ever. 77% of employees say that workplace culture is the most important non-money factor in their job decisions. In fact, 73% would choose a great work environment over a higher salary. This shift shows that employees want more than just a paycheck—they want to feel valued, connected, and inspired to do their best work.
3. AI Cannot Replace Human Power Skills
In a world where artificial intelligence is everywhere, the human touch is more important than ever. Our survey shows that 80% of people think power skills are more important than ever, making it clear that AI can’t replace the empathy and connection humans bring.
While AI is good at processing data, it can't understand when a coworker is dealing with a sick family member, notice if a manager is feeling stressed, or recognize when a team member is learning something new. These small, human moments are what turn a workplace into a supportive community.
Looking ahead, communication and leadership are the most important skills in today’s tech-driven world. Strong communication—helping solve problems, handle conflicts, and build positive cultures—cannot be replaced by AI. The unique qualities we bring to our work are what make teams stronger and create exceptional workplace cultures.
Source: Elizabeth Johnson, Wiley
“A strong company culture helps recruit talent, retain talent and drives strong results.”
– Gary Vaynerchuk
Did You Know This About DiSC®?
Group map
The main feature is the Group map. Similar to the group map and poster available through the Group Culture and Group Facilitator reports, the map shows everyone’s dot location and their icon from Catalyst. This tab also shows the group members and their priorities and this list can be filtered by primary DiSC style. The “more info” link will take you to the “Your colleagues” comparison page with that person.
