As generative AI reshapes the very fabric of industries, the question looms large: Are our leaders equipped to navigate this seismic shift? A recent BCG study reveals that while 89% of executives rank AI as a top tech priority for 2024, over 50% of employees feel ill-prepared to harness its potential. This dissonance underscores an urgent call for leaders who can not only embrace AI but also skillfully guide their teams through the complexities it introduces.
In this episode titled “Skillful Leadership in the Age of Gen AI: Navigating and Driving Change” from the series Building Mission-Critical Skills to Navigate the Gen AI Transformation: Learn, Grow, and Thrive, we dive into the pivotal role of leadership in the age of generative AI.
Hosted by Raghav Gupta, Managing Director for Coursera India and Asia Pacific, the episode features insights from Harshita Gupta, Executive Director of Learning and Development and Technical Learning Leader at Deloitte India and South Asia.
With nearly 20 years of experience in technology, capability building, strategy, and change management, Harshita is well-positioned to discuss how leaders can effectively navigate AI-driven transformations within their organisations.
Harshita notes, “Leadership today has evolved into different roles under a large umbrella, with distinct generative AI skills needed for each—strategic leaders must build an AI-integrated vision, marketing leaders need to craft meaningful value propositions, and HR leaders should leverage AI tools for enhanced employee engagement.”
In the realm of sales and marketing, leaders must focus on developing meaningful value propositions that demonstrate how AI can drive business transformation for clients. Furthermore, HR leaders play a critical role in leveraging AI tools for enhanced employee engagement and personalised learning experiences, especially as millennials now represent over 50% of the workforce.
Key takeaways from the session:
Leadership in Professional Services Demands a Diverse Skill Set:
Leaders must master a spectrum of specialised skills tailored to their domains, fostering an AI-integrated vision that drives informed decision-making around AI investments.
Tailored Learning Initiatives are Key to Effective Development:
Organisations like Deloitte are revolutionising learning through persona-based and hybrid models, enabling leaders to create personalised pathways that empower employees to leverage AI effectively.
Embracing Change is Essential for Proactive Leadership:
Leaders must cultivate a culture of continuous learning and innovation, addressing resistance to AI adoption through transparent communication, awareness initiatives, and a supportive environment for experimentation.
Collaboration is the Cornerstone of Successful AI Integration:
Breaking down departmental silos and establishing a unified vision for AI initiatives are crucial for aligning with broader business objectives and fostering an environment that enhances adoption.
Learning and Compliance Evolve into Strategic Partners for AI:
The role of Learning and Development must transform from mere support to a strategic ally in AI integration, emphasising training on AI ethics, compliance, and governance to ensure responsible AI use and adaptation to regulatory changes.
Tune in to the full episode to lead your organisation through the GenAI revolution!
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