I recently discovered Yue Zhao’s insightful article, “What Most Leaders of AI Get Wrong About Driving Adoption” and was reminded how often the human side of change gets overlooked. As an AI advocate, I’ve seen even the most promising initiatives stall—not because the technology failed, but because people weren’t ready.
Why Technical Focus Alone Isn’t Enough
It’s tempting to believe that once teams learn the latest AI tools, adoption will naturally follow. Yet time and again, projects falter not for lack of skill but because fear and uncertainty go unaddressed. When people feel anxious about what AI means for their roles, they hesitate to experiment or speak up—even when the technology could help them thrive.
Three Simple Shifts with Big Impact
Yue outlines a change-management approach that puts people first. Here’s how I’m applying it:
- Acknowledge and Address Fear. Instead of glossing over concerns, create dedicated forums—like quick “AI myth-busting” discussions—where everyone can voice questions and get clear answers. It demystifies the technology and validates genuine worries.
- Share Your Thinking. Transparency builds trust. I maintain a lightweight “AI decision diary” that outlines which tools we’re evaluating, why, and what trade-offs matter. This openness invites feedback and keeps everyone aligned.
- Build Together. Co-creation beats top-down edicts every time. Host hands-on sprints with diverse team members to prototype AI-enabled workflows. Even a short, focused session can spark ideas that stick—and foster ownership.
Real-World Reflections
After running these inclusive sessions with various teams, I’ve seen a noticeable shift: participants move from skepticism to genuine curiosity. The simple act of co-designing experiences turns apprehension into enthusiasm.
Why This Matters for You
True AI adoption isn’t about deploying the flashiest model; it’s about empathy and collaboration. When you weave in conversations about fear, share your rationale openly, and invite people into the process early, you transform AI from a mandate into a shared opportunity.
Your Turn
What’s the biggest roadblock you’ve faced when introducing AI? Reply with your experiences, and let’s explore solutions together.