You’ve probably heard of FOMO (fear of missing out), but are you familiar with the term FOBO (fear of being obsolete)? When it comes to AI in the workplace, things like FOBO, knowledge hoarding and AI anxiety have become commonplace. And whether or not team members have anything to be worried about isn’t the issue. It’s up to leaders to communicate AI strategy clearly, honestly and consistently.

Yes, AI is reshaping the workplace. But it’s how leaders care for team members through that change that will define results and culture. Here are a few ways leaders can put a lid on AI anxiety:

• Address the AI ‘elephant in the room’: Silence speaks volumes and can lead to rumors, catastrophizing and disengagement. Leaders should acknowledge the anxiety directly and honestly. For example, “We know AI raises questions about roles, and here’s what we know and what we don’t.”
• Be transparent: This is the single most powerful tool leaders have in managing this transition. Transparency builds trust. If you’re clear and consistent about how AI will be used (and, how it won’t be), you’ll cut down on uncertainty. When people get the ‘why’ and ‘how,’ they can handle the ‘what’ better.
• Be honest: Transparency is vital, but so is honesty. Don’t make promises you know you can’t keep just to appease team members. Effective AI communication answers the questions employees are actually asking: ‘Will my role change?’ ‘What support will I get?’
• Offer training and support: AI conversations should include information and opportunities about upskilling. Employees should feel like they have the opportunity to gain skills to become more proficient or feel confident with the basics.
• Protect human interaction: Design new workflows to include human interaction. Implement collaborative steps during the process and set up team meetings where people can share what’s working and what’s not. Connection is what builds a strong team.

AI, despite its many capabilities, can’t offer the same empathy, emotional intelligence and personal connection as a human manager. How is your team handling the adoption of AI in the workplace? Has it been met with some anxiety and hesitation? Leah M Joppy and Associates is ready to discuss the challenges you’re experiencing and help you create a positive and thriving workplace.

Call us at 301-351-9523 or email us at leah@lmja.com to learn more.