Mark Cuban says smiling and positivity help Gen Z stand out in AI-driven job market

Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban has highlighted the enduring value of a positive attitude in an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping the job market. Speaking in 2023, Cuban emphasized that one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools for standing out is a simple smile. He described it as “something all of us would like to receive” and argued that it is a completely free and accessible resource that can significantly influence business and professional interactions [1].

Cuban’s remarks come amid growing concerns over AI-driven automation displacing traditional entry-level jobs. According to Kickresume, nearly 58% of college graduates remain unemployed a year after graduation, reflecting the challenges Gen Z faces in securing employment. Against this backdrop, Cuban’s advice to “be nice” and to smile becomes particularly relevant. He noted that such behaviors not only make individuals more approachable but also foster a more productive and collaborative work environment [1].

The entrepreneur has long championed the idea that emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills are undervalued in business. In a 2018 interview with Vanity Fair, Cuban reflected on his own transformation from a brash young professional to a more approachable and effective leader. He admitted to being difficult to work with in his 20s but recognized that changing his demeanor led to significant personal and professional success. “One of the most underrated skills in business right now is being nice. Nice sells,” he said [1].

Cuban also stressed the importance of self-investment as a foundation for long-term success. He shared how he spent years teaching himself technology and programming, acknowledging that the effort was “painfully time-consuming.” However, he credited this dedication to learning with giving him a competitive advantage. By continuously improving himself, Cuban believes individuals can maintain their relevance and adaptability in a fast-changing world [1].

His insights align with broader trends in leadership and career development. Business leaders increasingly recognize that technical skills alone are insufficient in a world where AI can handle many routine tasks. Instead, qualities such as positivity, adaptability, and empathy are becoming more critical. Cuban’s message suggests that while AI may reshape industries, it cannot replicate the human capacity for connection and resilience [1].

As Gen Z navigates an unpredictable job market, Cuban’s advice offers a pragmatic yet human-centered strategy. By prioritizing self-improvement and maintaining a positive attitude, young professionals can differentiate themselves in ways that technology cannot replicate. His perspective reinforces the idea that success in the digital age will depend not only on what individuals know but also on how they engage with others and themselves [1].

Source: [1] As AI threatens jobs, Mark Cuban once said this human skill can help Gen Z stand out—and it’s completely free, (https://fortune.com/2025/07/31/mark-cuban-shark-tank-human-skill-positive-attitude-smile/)

[3] News | University of Florida, (https://news.ufl.edu/)