A GTM exec told me their AI adoption story. Early momentum was strong. Then some people started disengaging. The fear was real. If AI can do parts of my job, what happens to me? That question deserves an honest answer.
This is where most leaders stall. They either push harder or back off. Both fail.
Here’s what confident leadership actually looks like:
You have a responsibility to upskill your employees. Not because it’s nice. Because it’s your job.
You hired them when they had the skills your business needed. The business needs have changed. Your job is to give them the skills they need to compete now.
This makes business sense. Upskilling existing employees who know your culture and your business is more cost-effective than hiring new talent. It builds loyalty. And these AI skills are an investment in their careers, not just your company.
The hardest part isn’t the AI. It’s the human side, shifting mindset and behavior. Real investment is people-first, AI-forward. It means understanding their needs and concerns, inspiring them with what’s possible, hands-on training, space to learn with others, time to experiment, and leaders who use AI themselves. It’s not just doling out AI licenses and a Slack announcement.
After you’ve provided genuine support and time to adapt, people make their own choices.
In most major changes, you’ll see the Rule of Thirds play out:
One third will lead the change
One third will follow with support
One third won’t embrace it
Your responsibility looks different for each group:
Leaders – Give them room to run and become internal champions
Followers – Provide guidance and consistent support
Won’t embrace – Help them find the right place to thrive, whether that’s a different role on your team or elsewhere
Before sorting your team, ask yourself: Have we truly invested? Do we use AI ourselves? Or did we just expect people to figure it out while we watched from the sidelines?
Nice leadership keeps everyone comfortable and sets them up to fail when the world changes.
Compassionate leadership invests in people, sets clear expectations, and makes tough decisions when needed.
The AI era isn’t waiting. Leaders who develop their people AND drive results will build teams that thrive.
Your job is to know the difference.