AI Isn’t Taking Over Your Job—But It’s Creating New Leaders

The Informal Leader in Times Of Tech Change: A Call to Step Up

When I was an up-and-coming engineer, I prided myself on being the only one in our department who knew 3D modeling and animation programming through Autodesk. This technological advantage and skill gave me many opportunities to informally lead groups of professionals twice my age. Technology made me an informal leader.

This experience imprinted on me the idea that anyone can gain a career advancement advantage by mastering new technology before others do. Since then, I’ve always embraced being an early adopter of technological change. No matter what field I’ve worked in, this mindset has consistently positioned me as an informal leader in various situations.

As an engineer, I stood out because of my 3D modeling skills. As an HR executive, I knew our HR systems inside and out. As a commercial real estate broker, I mastered the latest marketing technologies and sales systems. Now, as a leadership and organizational development professional, I’m deeply engaged in understanding AI and its impact on how people lead and perform their jobs.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to lead but don’t yet have the experience or tenure, you can accelerate your chances by becoming a leader through technological expertise. AI is your chance.

In the face of rapid technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, the workplace is shifting faster than ever before. These changes bring opportunities, challenges, and a demand for leadership—not just formal leadership, but informal leaders who naturally rise to the occasion. These are the individuals who adapt quickly, embrace innovation, and help those around them do the same.

We’ve seen this phenomenon in every step-change in technology. When new tools or processes emerge, there are always a few who adapt faster, understand better, and possess the drive—or talent—to guide their teams through the transition. This kind of informal leadership is essential in turning disruption into opportunity and ensuring that teams can thrive in a changing environment.

But what does it really mean to be an informal leader during these transitions? And as formal leaders, how can we nurture and empower this critical group?

What Does Informal Leadership Look Like During Technological Change?

Informal leadership, in its essence, is influence without authority. It’s about stepping into the gap—not because of a title, but because of a willingness to lead through action, expertise, and relationships. In the context of technological change, informal leaders take on several key roles:

• Adaptability: They are the first to engage with new tools, figuring out how they work and how they can be applied.
• Tech Savviness: They demonstrate an innate or cultivated ability to learn, apply, and teach others about emerging technologies.
• Mentorship: They help colleagues overcome fear or hesitation, providing guidance and encouragement to those who are slower to adapt.
• Culture Builders: Through their enthusiasm and optimism, they create a culture of learning and innovation, encouraging others to step into the unknown with confidence.

What’s remarkable about informal leaders is their focus on action. They don’t wait for permission to lead; they lead by doing. They identify opportunities to simplify processes, enhance productivity, or solve problems, and they bring others along in the journey.

The Ripple Effect of Informal Leadership

The influence of informal leaders goes far beyond their immediate actions. They serve as bridges, translating complex technological concepts into simple, actionable insights for their teams. They promote adoption by modeling behaviors, demonstrating results, and creating psychological safety around learning new skills.

Perhaps most importantly, informal leaders foster resilience. Change—especially technological change—can feel overwhelming, but these leaders show that missteps and setbacks are part of the process. They normalize experimentation and failure, turning them into stepping stones for growth.

These qualities are invaluable in today’s workplace, where adaptability and innovation have become the currency of success. As leaders, we must not only recognize these individuals but actively empower them to extend their influence.

How to Step Into Informal Leadership

If you find yourself drawn to the idea of becoming an informal leader during technological change, here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset Cultivate a willingness to learn and adapt, even when it feels uncomfortable. Technological change isn’t about mastering everything overnight; it’s about staying curious and persistent. Take initiative in learning about emerging technologies that impact your role or team.
2. Proactively Share Knowledge Leadership is about lifting others. Whether it’s hosting a quick lunch-and-learn or informally mentoring a colleague, find ways to demystify new tools and processes. Remember, your ability to explain technology in accessible terms can be the spark that lights someone else’s curiosity.
3. Model Resilience and Optimism Change can be daunting, but your attitude sets the tone. When others see you embracing new tools with patience and positivity, they’re more likely to follow suit. Let your actions demonstrate that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn along the way.
4. Build Relationships Based on Trust Influence stems from connection. Take time to understand your colleagues’ challenges and needs, and offer support in ways that are meaningful to them. Being approachable and empathetic enhances your credibility as a leader.
5. Focus on Outcomes Tie technological changes back to the bigger picture. Show how adopting new tools can align with organizational goals, improve efficiency, or solve specific problems. Helping others see the "why" behind the change strengthens their buy-in.

How Leaders Can Empower Informal Leaders

For formal leaders, the question becomes: how can we identify and nurture these informal leaders to maximize their impact?

1. Recognition and Empowerment Recognize individuals who are stepping up during times of change. Acknowledge their contributions publicly and provide them with the resources they need to amplify their efforts.
2. Create Collaborative Spaces Foster a culture of knowledge sharing through forums, workshops, or team discussions. Informal leaders thrive in environments where collaboration is encouraged and celebrated.
3. Invest in Development Offer training opportunities to deepen their leadership skills and technological expertise. Supporting their growth benefits both the individual and the organization.
4. Celebrate Progress Share success stories of how informal leadership has positively impacted the team or organization. Highlighting these examples not only validates their efforts but also inspires others to step up.

The Opportunity for Informal Leaders

Every technological revolution brings with it a chance to rise. Informal leaders are not just the early adopters; they are the connectors, the mentors, and the culture builders who guide their teams through uncertainty into clarity.

As AI and automation continue to reshape the workplace, the need for these leaders will only grow. Whether you are stepping into an informal leadership role or empowering those around you to do so, remember that leadership is not about titles—it’s about impact.

Leadership happens when we embrace the opportunity to influence others for the better. In times of change, that opportunity is abundant. Step up. Lead well. And watch the ripple effects transform your team.

If you would like to talk further about the impact of AI on leadership, connect with me at paratusconsulting.co (No m on the end)