Over the weekend, I read More Human: How the Power of AI Can Transform the Way You Lead by Rasmus Hougaard and Jacqueline Carter. The title caught my attention—because the idea that AI can actually make us more human seemed like an oxymoron!
After all, I’m all about finding that sweet spot between tech and connect—using technology for what it does best, while also knowing when to put it “in its place.”
Is it possible that tech can make us more human?
Maybe not, but here are three ways that AI can help you become a great human leader.
1. Let AI do what AI does best
AI is an incredibly powerful tool when it comes to analyzing data, spotting trends, and taking over repetitive, time-consuming tasks. Sounds great, but proceed with caution because AI also has biases. As Hougaard and Carter point out, “AI could trap leaders in an echo chamber. Many systems are designed to please—feeding us what they think we want to see instead of expanding our understanding.”
Great human leaders use AI for the incredible tool that it is, but they don’t outsource their judgment.
2. Be intentional with the time you save
When AI frees up your calendar, what do leaders fill it with?
Another Zoom meeting? More emails?
Or something more meaningful?
According to Hougaard and Carter, “As AI replaces or simplifies leadership activities, we have an opportunity to make radical shifts—from managing people to creating positive human experiences.”
But before diving into more meetings or busy work, ask yourself:
- What will you do with that extra time?
- How will you use it to connect more deeply with your team?
- Where will you show up in the moments that matter most?
3. Bring your human to work
Hougaard and Carter found that employees don’t trust AI to understand human behavior better than their leaders. Honestly? That’s a relief.
But it’s also a reminder that, even in the age of AI, bringing your human to work is good for business:
“Leaders should use this feedback from employees as an indicator of how they should spend their time—in the very human, emotional parts of work that require care, transparency, and courageous conversations.”
And as studies show, soft skills (aka, human skills) boost productivity and retention.
AI can’t lead with empathy, but great human leaders can.
Here’s the thing. There’s no turning back the clock. AI is here to stay. So as AI continues to evolve, you should, too.
3/25/25
