Embracing AI To Race Ahead

“AI is not going to steal your job, but a person who knows how to work with it might.” I came across this statement this morning and I feel it could not be more true. AI has hit the wider public like a storm, and far too many see it as catastrophic.

As with all digital technology, there is a generational context. The digital natives are far more embracing and less fearful of AI. Naturally, I ask why? Gen-Z have entered the workforce and have forced leaders to think very differently about the environments that they work in. They are the most challenging and prepared to be vocal, and this is not always appreciated.

Young people in Britain are more connected to experiences abroad than ever before. They demand the benefits of a work/life balance, and have a refreshing focus on wellness and burnout. With the added pressure of the current cost-of-living crisis, they ask the question that has always plagued us Brits: “Do you work to live, or do you live to work?”

Having experienced their parents working all hours and responding to emails all weekend, that is not a life that this generation is prepared to sign up to. Therefore, it’s this younger generation of employees who are seeing the infinite possibilities AI offers to achieve “smart work”. Senior leaders will have to guide and lead everyone through this AI revolution in an inclusive manner.

Last week, I attended a leadership event centred on innovation and AI in Johannesburg. From the moment I arrived, the energy was invigorating. Everyone wanted to know the secret behind AI and if it’s the real deal. The message became clear: Executive teams who encourage the integration of AI see their teams and businesses race ahead.

Some feel as though, “Wow, everybody’s moving faster than I am,” then do something about catching up. Technology waits for no one. Humans have had similar concerns of unfamiliarity over electricity, the invention of the car, and the internet. But historically, those inventions have become a way of life, an instant habit for those who live in richly developed nations. Developing nations have become adept at mastering all new technologies. This has enabled them to ‘leapfrog’ the need for expensive technology infrastructure and just go digital.

We’re entering a new time where all senior leadership must begin thinking like smart integrators. Those at the top no longer need to be the cleverest people in the room, but they have to be the best leaders.

Rather than avoiding AI, which is driving uncertainty, fear of redundancy, and most of all, a lack of trust. It is time for transparency and involving the workforce in helping to identify the right way forward for the company. The best leaders will ensure that everybody feels that they belong, and consequently, care deeply about the future of the business.

Will AI replace humans? No, not necessarily. We have a huge part to play in this. This involves our mastery of AI, not allowing AI’s mastery of us. Every one of us needs to become a technologist.

Maybe Gen-Z are there already. Perhaps, it might be better to focus on their strengths and how they can help the business transform, given how tech-savvy they are.

Thought for the week:

Leaders have to adapt to AI or lose relevance.

?Top tips for becoming an 'A' player:

• A top-down approach is nowhere near enough
• Cultivate curiosity
• The number one challenge for inclusion is becoming generational.
• Remain vocal and optimistic about the outcome
• Be true to your Spikes (strengths)
• Never stop asking everyone - “What do you think?”
• AI evolves rapidly, stay adaptable?

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