Will AI replace us or is it a question of values?

In today's business world, artificial intelligence (AI) is presented as a powerful tool that promises to increase efficiency and automate repetitive tasks. However, we keep repeating the same question: will AI ever completely replace us? This reflection deserves deep consideration, especially in the current context where concepts such as the modern company and new ways of leading more focused on people and their development, take center stage.

I take the license to look at it from another angle, to remove so much focus and so much responsibility from the company and the institutions and focus more on people. While it is true that companies should focus on people and their growth, it is worth asking what or whom people should focus their attention on.

AI and the new business model

The latest trend in leadership is one in which business management focuses on the integral development of people, fostering a work environment where empathy, continuous training and empowerment are fundamental pillars. The key question is whether companies will be able to afford to maintain this approach in a world increasingly dominated by technology and with such important challenges as productivity and talent engagement.

On a daily basis, we come across articles and participate in leadership conferences, which insist that CEOs must deliver short-term results, while thinking strategically about the future and growing our teams. There is no doubt that people are what make things happen. We professionals must find the formula to differentiate ourselves in a market where AI offers the same answers to everyone, and the key lies in people's values, boldness and integrity.

The Real Danger

Where does the real danger lie - is it technology, with the insipient use of AI, or the loss of values in our society? The answer could lie in the lack of commitment and ethics of both companies and individuals. A company's values are a direct reflection of the people within it, and it is precisely in the hands of these people that the decision to use AI in a way that complements rather than replaces employees lies.

The Role of the Company and Employees

Ultimately, the adoption and proper use of AI rests with society at large: institutions, employers and employees. It is a thought worth making: who has the power to decide that AI should replace us? And why would it, if people are the key to success?

We must be aware that, while AI is a powerful tool, our true differentiation comes from human attributes such as values, judgment and commitment to the project. Employees must understand that their unique input and integrity are essential to remain relevant in an increasingly automated environment. And where our productivity levels have dropped alarmingly. If ultimately our values and commitment are not in line with the purpose and objectives of companies and their teams, what's to stop AI, which also (for the moment) has no values, from replacing us?

AI has the potential to make our work more efficient, but what will really prevent us from being replaced will be what differentiates us from it, what makes us human: our knowledge of it, our ability to use it strategically, and our values and commitment.

In this sense, both managers and employees must be bold, have criteria and be committed, differentiating ourselves not only by the use of technology, but by the way in which we integrate our values and get involved in each project, in each task.

It is imperative that we cultivate a corporate culture that values and fosters these human qualities. Training programs should focus not only on technical skills but also on personal development and professional ethics. Performance evaluations should include metrics that measure commitment and values in addition to productivity and technical skills.

Business leaders have a responsibility to be examples of these values. Transparency, respect and integrity should not just be words in a corporate mission statement, but daily practices. Encouraging open and honest communication, recognizing and rewarding behaviors that reflect the organization's values, and fairly and promptly addressing ethics and engagement issues are essential to building a strong and resilient culture.

Collaboration between people and artificial intelligence should be viewed as a strategic alliance. AI can take over repetitive tasks and massive data analysis, freeing employees to focus on innovation, creativity and strategic decision making. It is in this space that the talent in our organizations and in our society can truly shine, providing value that no machine can replicate.

In conclusion, as we navigate this technological age, it is crucial not to lose sight of the essence of our humanity. AI is a powerful tool, but it is our human skills that will really drive the success and sustainability of our companies and our careers. And thus the competitiveness of our society.  We must embrace technology, but not at the expense of the values and commitment that define us as human beings and as dedicated professionals.

If you need more information on how to leverage artificial intelligence in your business to increase operational efficiency, don't hesitate to get in touch.