AI, the future and me

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept – it’s embedded in every aspect of our lives. From voice assistants to predictive analytics, AI is driving innovation at an unprecedented pace. But amidst the excitement, one truth remains: while AI can automate tasks and optimize efficiency, it still requires strong leadership and human ingenuity to steer it in the right direction.

As I shared in a highly anticipated and well-attended business conference organized by Tata Consultancy Services, AI is the catalyst, but leadership is the solution. Organizations that embrace AI without reinforcing a culture of adaptability, creativity and trust will struggle. So, what does leadership look like in an AI-driven world?

AI is undeniably powerful. It can process massive amounts of data in seconds, automate repetitive tasks and even generate strategic insights. However, AI cannot replace human judgment, emotional intelligence or vision.

Consider the story of a hospital that was struggling with financial losses. They fed their finances into ChatGPT and asked for cost-saving recommendations – excluding staff cuts. Within moments, AI provided a list of cost-cutting measures. Impressive, right? But here’s what AI didn’t do: it didn’t gather the hospital’s leadership team to discuss maintaining quality patient care while implementing those cost-saving measures. That’s because AI can do the legwork but can’t lead. It won’t inspire teams, make tough ethical decisions, or rally people toward a shared goal. That’s still the leader’s job. As one business executive aptly put it, “AI is like a power tool – it’s beneficial if you know how to use it. Otherwise, you’re just making a lot of noise and hoping for the best.”

Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” And in today’s AI era, I’d argue that “Culture eats AI for dessert.”

The organizations that thrive in an AI-driven future will foster a culture of adaptability. AI can generate reports and analyze trends but can’t brainstorm game-changing ideas or create a culture of trust and innovation. Leaders must empower their teams, encourage creativity and foster an environment where employees embrace AI as a partner rather than a threat.

AI is changing the job market, and businesses must keep up. Some roles will evolve, others will disappear, and entirely new ones will emerge. But one thing remains certain: those who embrace lifelong learning will thrive.

Think about how calculators revolutionized mathematics. Mathematicians did not disappear. They began solving more complex problems. The same applies to AI. It’s not here to replace us but to elevate us to more strategic, creative and meaningful work. A simple truth applies here: If you can’t beat the bots, train them to be your interns! Instead of resisting AI, organizations must invest in training programs that help employees leverage AI for greater efficiency and innovation.

Many professionals ask, “Will AI replace me?” The answer is only if you let it. AI is a tool – how you use it determines your value.

Here’s a personal story: I recently had a routine blood test and sent the results to my doctor for interpretation. Out of curiosity, I also uploaded the report into ChatGPT. The findings and recommendations were nearly identical. My first thought? My doctor is using AI too!

But here’s the difference – my doctor also reassured me, answered my questions with empathy, and considered my health history. That’s the human advantage. AI can analyze data but can’t replace the human ability to connect, comfort and inspire trust.

If you don’t develop strong communication and leadership skills and instead sound like a robot, you might actually be at risk of replacement. That’s why I always encourage leaders to refine their ability to connect with people on a human level.

AI can generate marketing content, analyze sales trends and automate reports. But can it create a viral campaign that truly resonates with people? Can it tell a joke that makes an entire room burst into laughter?

Human connection matters. Even in a world dominated by AI, businesses that prioritize authenticity and meaningful interactions will win.

The rise of Dark Social – conversations happening in private WhatsApp groups, DMs and Reddit threads – shows that people crave real, unpolished and genuine communication. Companies that succeed will be the ones that remain authentic, relatable and human.

As AI continues to reshape industries, one thing remains clear:

Technology evolves, but leadership is timeless.

Here are three key recommendations for business leaders:

Invest in people: AI is a tool, but human talent drives innovation. Empower employees to grow alongside AI.

Lead with empathy: Inspire teams with vision, not fear. AI is a partner, not a threat.

Stay curious: Keep learning, experimenting and adapting. The best leaders embrace change with excitement, not resistance.

And if all of this feels overwhelming, just remember: AI can take over my spreadsheets, but it will never take my coffee breaks.

Unlock your potential and propel your career forward at Level Up Leadership – The Excellence Advantage workshop seminar on April 8, 2025, at Rockwell Club, Makati. Reserve your seat now! Contact April at 0928-559-1798 or Savee at 0917-533-6817. Visit www.levelupleadership.ph for details. Limited seats available!