This year’s Web Summit in Lisbon was an energy-fuelled, dynamic, and multicultural event. After several years of disruption caused by the pandemic, it was great to finally experience it firsthand. Below are some reflections from the event.
1. AI Hype and Fears
AI dominated almost every conversation, not just as a buzzword, but as a transformative force reshaping industries, workflows, and even business models. Many speakers highlighted the exciting potential of AI to revolutionize how we address customer challenges and unlock new sources of value.
At the same time, the tone wasn’t all optimism. A recurring question surfaced across sessions:
“What will be the net impact of AI on jobs?”
The honest answer: no one really knows, particularly when looking beyond the short term. I sensed a need for a more realistic, transparent dialogue about both the opportunities and disruptions AI will create. Rather than downplaying people’s fears, businesses and policymakers should help the workforce reskill, upskill, and prepare for an uneven transition – one that will bring new career opportunities to some and painful adjustment for others
2. Skills Required in the Age of AI
There was strong consensus that as AI becomes more embedded in work, certain human capabilities will only grow in value – including critical thinking, creative problem-solving, learning & adaptation, and the ability to connect and collaborate.
As one speaker noted, AI doesn’t just plug into existing workflows – it demands an end-to-end rethinking of systems, processes, and even products. Yet too many companies are still bolting AI tools onto outdated structures without addressing the human change required.
To truly realize AI’s potential, organizations must invest as heavily in developing these critical human skills as they do in new technology. Without this balance, even the most advanced AI investments will fall short of their promise.
3. The Changing Role of Leadership
Leading in today’s environment is already challenging – with economic, political, and technological turbulence testing every assumption and practice. The rise of AI adds another layer of complexity, requiring leaders at all levels to empower people and create inclusive, adaptive cultures where everyone can contribute to shaping the future.
Modern leaders must:
- Act as sense-makers and navigators, distinguishing real trends from hype and helping teams focus on what matters most.
- Create empowering, psychologically safe environments where people can speak openly and share bold ideas.
- Build diverse, multi-disciplinary teams to deploy and optimize AI and other emerging technologies for business and societal value.
- Align work with people’s passions and strengths, not just their job descriptions and current expertise, to drive engagement and innovation.
- Foster intrapreneurship, giving employees time and space to experiment, problem-solve, and innovate with AI.
- Encourage fractional collaboration, bringing in specialists with niche expertise to complement internal teams on strategic projects.
Final Thought
The Web Summit made it clear that we’re entering a new era – one where technology alone isn’t enough. The real differentiator will be how effectively leaders harness both AI and human potential to create resilient, purpose-driven and people-first organizations.
Worried that your organisation might fall behind as AI changes the way we work?
This is your moment to rethink how you build leadership capability and future-ready skills. The organisations that will thrive are the ones that combine smart technology with a deep understanding of human strengths. TalentPredix™ helps leaders unlock this potential with science-based insights, practical tools, and a strengths-first approach to growth.
Get in touch or book a free demo to explore how we can help your people lead with confidence in the age of AI.
Author: James Brook
James Brook is the Founder of TalentPredix™ and a leadership, transformation, and strengths-based development expert with over 30 years of global experience. A business psychologist and executive coach, he has helped thousands of leaders and organisations worldwide unlock potential, spark innovation, and build thriving, high-performing workplaces. Previously, James founded Strengthscope®, scaling it into a global strengths assessment brand before exiting in 2018. His earlier career includes senior HR and talent roles at Yahoo!, NatWest, and Novo Nordisk. He holds an MSc in Organisational Psychology, an MBA, and an Advanced Diploma in Executive Coaching.
