(2 minute read)
While most of us accept that Artificial Intelligence has infiltrated most industries – by design or by default – it can leave us wondering whether it may soon replace the role of the leader or coach within the business environment.
While this concern may have arisen from the speed at which AI can generate responses to queries or questions and its ability to pull data and results from a broad spectrum of resources, could it really replace the personalised, human interest which is a characteristic of a great leader?
I don’t think so.
Our performance is heavily influenced by what is called, ‘The Behaviour Cycle’. This is a model which suggests that Human Experiences directly influence our Beliefs, which impact our Thoughts to direct our Behaviours, Actions, and Results.
At this point, AI cannot create new experiences or influence our intuition yet alone alter our EQ – each of which is essential to tap into as a leader, coach or mentor to assist in the development of any team members.
Leaders have a distinct advantage in that they provide support, encouragement, meaningful feedback, stories and anecdotes that can resonate and connect with their colleagues in a humanistic/personal way. In these areas, AI cannot compete.
Flexing the Human Element of Human Relations.
As a leader, coach, or supporting colleague, look for opportunities to incorporate or build upon the following to help your team members grow, develop, and learn more about themselves and the demands/needs of the workplace.
- The Power of Story: Stories provide an amazing opportunity to share learnings from previous experiences (yours and others).
- Experiences & Exposure: Placing team members in a broad range of working situations (e.g., different sites or departments) enhances their exposure and builds their log of experiences.
- Motivations and Drivers: Getting to know team members and what drives or motivates them allows leaders to tap into the secret sauce of performance management.
There is much that AI can offer leaders and coaches to complement what they are already doing but never forget that we are Human Beings – not Human Doings!