Recently I was discussing the current state of AI in the workforce with a friend of mine, a VC in the tech sector. She reminded me of that moment 25 years ago, when we were all sweating the arrival of the internet, feeling shaky and uncertain about how it would affect us. But she also pointed out a distinct difference between that time and this one. Back then we understood that the best way for us to adapt to the new technology was to create an email address and a website, and start exploring what they could do.
But this time around the uncertainty is much greater. There are so many different types of AI tools available, but so little understanding of how to maximize their potential. There are also many reports of increasingly incorrect “hallucinations” from these tools. It’s all causing mass confusion about how much we should trust them and interact with them. This year my Executive clients have told me that this confusion is also happening at the level of companies and corporations. Yesterday I worked with an executive at a global tech company that produces powerful AI tools, who shared that their leadership is struggling to make a decision about which ones they should adopt for their own company-wide usage.
Whatever type of AI tools you’re using, and however you’re using them, remember this: at least for the foreseeable future, no AI system on Earth can offer the delicate balance of honesty, warmth, competence and humanity that humans naturally possess. Put simply, the more artificial intelligence moves into the workplace, the more emotional intelligence must come into the leadership space.
Especially if you’re a manager (or if you want to become one), you need to connect with the people you manage, and win their trust.
Here are 3 questions managers should ask themselves right now:
Am I setting clear expectations with my team? Many of my clients think they’re good at this, yet when I ask them how their team is performing, they report disappointing results. Usually it’s because they assume that the team already knows what’s expected of them. But if you want the highest-quality work from your people, you need to tell them you expect that from them, and be specific about what that means. If you want them to start using AI tools, make that crystal-clear (be prepared for mixed results right now!). You also need to reinforce your expectations at each stage of the project or task. This is not mean, micromanaging, or arrogant. It is the most effective way to set them up for success.
Am I offering effective team support? Here again, don't assume that your team already knows what to expect from you. Especially during this time of confusion and chaos, be crystal-clear about exactly how you’re willing to support their work, and remind them frequently. Be firm but warm, and reassuring when they need it. But in order for your people to feel supported they need you to be as good as your word. Don’t leave them hanging and don't break any promises, or you’ll quickly erode their trust.
Am I under promising and over-delivering? When you speak to your own leaders about your work, don’t fall into this classic trap. It’s especially common for women, who are socially conditioned to be people-pleasers, even when it’s inconvenient or even harmful to our well being. But beware: if you do this for too long it can lead to massive burnout!! You can certainly use some AI tools to cut down on your workload, but don't turn that into an excuse to pile on more extra work than you can handle. Make a clear statement about the work you’re going to do, perform it at a reasonably high level of excellence (that you can deliver without scorching yourself), and own it. This is crucial for your stamina, both right now and in the long-term of your career.
I give Power Communication trainings to groups of Executives, and private coaching packages for professionals at companies like Microsoft, Amazon, Columbia Bank, Carharrt, Cisco and Kimpton Hotels, both remotely and in person. DM me for more info about my trainings, rates and availability. I love hearing from you!