How to introduce AI to a skeptical workplace

"Chris was frustrated. He'd used Artificial Intelligence ( AI) extensively in college. Now at his first job, he saw very few of his colleagues ever experimenting with it. At first, Chris tried bringing up AI conversationally. He mentioned creating a meal schedule, as well as planning a cool weekend trip itinerary. But when he suggested to his manager how they might want to incorporate AI into their workflow, he felt rebuffed."

"A lot of experienced experts have real, valid concerns that AI will replace their expertise. Recent stats suggest that almost a quarter of workers feel AI could make their job obsolete, while almost half see that it will change their job significantly over the next few years. So it's important to first take some time to have conversations with your team, to ask them about their experiences and concerns when it comes to."

Chris felt frustrated when college experience with AI did not lead to workplace experimentation among colleagues. Early-career AI users often have skills but lack credibility and subject-matter authority to change established workflows. Many experienced workers worry AI could replace jobs or significantly alter roles, so understanding cultural reticence is essential. Start by asking colleagues what they have heard about AI at work, whether they have used it, what impressed or frustrated them, and what they fear most. After understanding stances, identify a single wasteful workflow step and propose a small, concrete AI action to address it.

Read at Fast Company