Human Intelligence: Get The Whole Story

Today, one of the biggest conversations for businesses will be striking the right balance between artificial intelligence (AI) and human intelligence (HI). While AI has revolutionised many aspects of work, it’s becoming clear that relying solely on technology only tells half the story. 

What is Human Intelligence?

The integration of human insight alongside AI is where the real magic happens — reminding us, as Daft Punk aptly put it in their iconic album, Human After All, our humanity remains at the core of progress.

At PepTalk, we think the future of work lies in the synergy between AI and HI. The need for distinctly human qualities grows as AI systems become more advanced, automating processes and analysing data at unprecedented scales. Recent research supports this: ethical decision-making, emotional intelligence, relationship-building, and conflict resolution have been identified as the top skills least likely to be replaced by AI.

This is because AI, while powerful, cannot replicate the depth of human empathy, moral judgment, or the nuanced understanding required to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. This melding of AI + HI is the formula for innovation and success.

Irreplaceable Humanity

The robots are not quite ready to take over the physical world, either. Surveys from the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report predicted the highest job growth between 2023 and 2027 would be for agricultural equipment operators, heavy truck and bus drivers, and vocational education teachers, with mechanics and machinery repair services in fourth place. This indicates that one of the major strengths of the human brain in comparison to AI is its connection to the physical human body.

AI + HI = PepTalk

Considering the above, it makes sense businesses that recognise the value of genuine human interaction alongside technology will be better equipped to adapt to challenges, build trust, and drive meaningful outcomes.

In fact, according to a WorkDay survey, 93% of professionals using AI agree that it allows them to focus on higher-level responsibilities while also enhancing creativity and delivering value.

Indeed, PepTalk client Qualtrics, a leader in employee engagement technology, has also recognised this critical balance. In a recent campaign, they perfectly captured this partnership's essence with the tagline: "AI, meet Humanized Intelligence."

As Louise Ballard, co-founder of consultancy Atheni.ai, told the Financial Times: "The winners [in 2025] will be leaders who guide their organisations to understand that transformation can happen when every role collaborates daily with generative AI. This technology wave is different: success is about humans and mindset, a fundamental shift in how we work, and 2025 is when that difference becomes decisive."

Different Perspectives on Human Intelligence

But what is human intelligence, really? The definition of intelligence varies across cultures, shaped by societal values and unique contexts. Robert Sternberg, Professor of Human Development at Cornell University, emphasises the importance of cultural perspectives when defining intelligence. Psychologists offer several interpretations of intelligence, each with practical applications in business:

• Successful Intelligence: The skills and knowledge needed for success within one’s sociocultural context. This translates into strategic decision-making in leadership, sales, and marketing, where understanding diverse markets and consumer behaviours is crucial for long-term success.
• Analytical Intelligence: The ability to solve abstract but familiar problems. This form of intelligence is essential in arenas like finance, data analysis, and operations, where critical thinking and problem-solving drive efficiency and performance.
• Creative Intelligence: The ability to handle novel tasks and situations. Creativity fuels marketing, product development, and branding innovation, helping businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace and adapt to ever-changing consumer demands.
• Practical Intelligence: The ability to effectively adapt, shape, and select experiences. This is particularly valuable in human resources, leadership, and team management, where navigating interpersonal relationships and organisational dynamics is key to fostering a positive work environment.

By integrating these various forms of human intelligence with AI-driven tools, businesses can create a balanced approach that leverages technology while maintaining the critical human elements needed for creativity, connection, and adaptability.

"If You Only Use AI, You're Only Getting Half the Story"

This perspective is at the heart of our vision for the future. Businesses embracing AI and human-driven creativity unlock critical opportunities that fuel innovation, insight, and intuitive decision-making. While AI enhances efficiency and data analysis, the growing demand for human connection presents a decisive advantage. Encouragingly, 82% of employees believe AI adoption will increase the need for human connection, though only 65% of managers share this view (Workday). 

This presents a valuable leadership opportunity: organisations that integrate AI while strengthening human connection can foster a more engaged workforce. By combining Human Intelligence with technology, companies can take a holistic approach to problem-solving, relationship-building, and long-term growth.

To explore this balance further, we’re bringing in more expert voices like Rob Lauber, a Chief Learning Officer with over 30 years of award-winning work, whose insights highlight how combining human and artificial intelligence unlocks the full potential of both.

Looking Ahead To The Future

The journey toward blending AI and HI is just beginning, but it will shape the future of work, leadership, and innovation. Transparency and trust will also be crucial. Most professionals (90%) believe AI can enhance business accountability, but this requires careful leadership to ensure AI integration aligns with ethical and human-centred values.

At PepTalk, we’re committed to helping teams and organisations embrace this dynamic partnership, ensuring they’re prepared to not just survive but thrive in 2025 and beyond. After all, as Daft Punk reminds us, our innately human qualities are what keep us connected, creative, and capable of reaching new heights.

If you’re ready to explore how PepTalk’s truly intelligent expert speakers can change your business, stay tuned for more insights, strategies, and inspiration. We’re on this journey together. Email us at hello@getapeptalk.com for more information.