In the last few years, AI has taken off in unexpected ways that have changed the way today’s workforce operates. As a result, the fear of automation replacing tasks or entire jobs has become common among employees.
However, automation doesn’t remove the need for the human touch — and, in fact, can be used to support employees in their day-to-day workflows. Below, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share reassuring messages that can help calm employees navigating these changes. With the right communications, employees can view AI not as a threat but as a tool to advance their careers and embrace new possibilities.
Embrace AI
AI is a tool, and as you embrace it, you can learn how it can benefit the company and employees. AI can also act as a replacement, be incredibly affordable and open sales and marketing opportunities while strengthening the bottom line. It’s the new Wild West, whether you see it or not. Embracing the new AI technology is not enough. Learn it, understand it and digest it because AI already knows you. – Wayne Bell, Really Big Coloring Books® Inc | ColoringBook.com
Know That We Are All Learning About AI Together
Don’t be nervous. We are all learning together. There is yet to be an “expert” in this field. It is truly about building and gaining knowledge in real time. Be open to asking questions. The more we learn, the more we earn. – Matt Altman, Headline Booking
Increase Your AI Skills
Rather than spend time worrying, advise your employees to upskill themselves on AI. Even YouTube has good tutorials. There are courses on sites like Udemy. Maybe you can even pay for some good educational sites. The important thing to remember is that companies still need people to be accountable for results — even if those results come from AI. – Zain Jaffer, Zain Jaffer Foundation
Think of AI as a Professional Development Opportunity
Embrace AI as an opportunity to enhance your skills and focus on higher-value tasks. AI can automate repetitive tasks, allowing you to engage in more creative and strategic roles. By staying adaptable and continuously learning, you can position yourself as an integral part of the evolving workplace. The key is to see AI as a tool that complements human abilities rather than replaces them. – Francis Hellyer, tickadoo
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Know the Value of Human Creativity
Photography did not eliminate painting, and audio recording did not eliminate live music. Rather, both innovations led to other innovations (like abstract impressionism). In creative fields, AI can sometimes successfully replicate what we’ve seen and heard before (with slight variations). But it takes human creativity to figure out the big picture and where we go from here. No heart means no art. – Jed Brewer, Good Loud Media
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Leverage Human Emotion and Connections
Human experiences and our awareness of the world around us are also evolving as fast as AI. Creativity and empathy are crucial foundations in most industries regarding client and customer relations and real-life connections. Emphasize the importance of your team’s ability to leverage these emotions through their communication with clients, consumers and colleagues. – Magen Baker, Bell + Ivy
Understand That Technological Advancements Are Important
I emphasize the importance of adapting to technological advancements and reassure employees that embracing AI will lead to growth and new opportunities rather than job loss. It encourages a mindset shift from fear to proactive learning and innovation. – Sonia Singh, Center of Inner Transformations
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Think of It as Just Another Tool
First and foremost, I believe there will always be a market for human-led work. However, there’s no denying that AI is going to change the way we do that work. At the end of the day, it’s just another tool in our professional toolbox. Learn how to use it to enhance your creativity, productivity and connectivity so that you can more easily adapt — and even lead the way — as the workplace changes. – Evan Nison, NisonCo
Remember That AI Relies on a Human’s Lead
AI is advancing rapidly, but art, culture and human touch are still essential. AI relies on human creativity, input and ethos to be effective. Rather than fearing job security, employees should focus on mastering AI as a tool to enhance their work and give them a competitive advantage. By harnessing AI’s potential, they can secure their role and remain vital in shaping the future. – Dan Serard, Cannabis Creative Group
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Think of AI Like an Office Intern
Don’t worry — AI is more like the office intern than the office terminator. It’s here to assist, not take over. Remember, humans are the ones teaching AI, so stay ahead by learning new skills and embracing technology like a boss. Just think of AI as your tech-savvy sidekick, not your archnemesis, and you’ll be perfectly fine. AI is the best assistant I’ve had (and the only one, to be honest). – Mark Paulda, Mark Paulda & Co
See Where It Can Make Your Life Easier
AI holds the power to a more efficient workday. Embrace it — see where it can be useful to you at your job, so you can focus on matters that require more creativity and the human touch. AI can’t do everything. – Dustin Eide, CanPay
