Most organizations are still asking “How do we make our processes 10% more efficient with AI?” The leaders pulling ahead are asking completely different questions. They’re writing a new playbook instead of optimizing the old one.
I’m seeing four critical mindset shifts that separate the AI-forward leaders from the rest:
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From answer engine to thought partner
Yes, AI gives you better responses than Google. But stop there and you’re missing the point. Use AI to pressure-test ideas, explore alternatives you hadn’t considered, and challenge your assumptions. -
From faster to better to different
“AI helps us do the same work in half the time” is table stakes. Move beyond improving existing workflows to reimagine entirely new approaches to customer problems. Speed first, then transformation. -
From tool to teammate to systems
Most teams start by using AI for isolated tasks. That’s fine. But the next level is building AI teammates that understand your context and work alongside you. The goal is orchestrating AI systems that support workflows across functions. -
From org charts to work charts
AI doesn’t care about department boundaries. The orgs making the biggest leaps organize around customer outcomes instead of functional silos. When AI connects insights across your marketing, sales, and CS teams, you see how knowledge wants to flow.
Take this quick assessment (4 questions) to see where you are on this journey and get some guidance on what to do next. See link to the interactive quiz in the comments below.
Here’s the interactive quiz. Share your results and our thoughts on it.