The Rising Leader: The Initial Challenges of AI Education
It's no surprise that one of the most common questions I receive from new leaders is how to begin learning and utilizing Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). This question is not just limited to the individual asking for themselves, but also for their own teammates. When discussing the challenges they are having learning on their own, several reoccurring obstacles emerge:
With these hurdles in mind, let's look at some easy actions you can take to alleviate them, right off the bat.
Where to Begin?
Navigating the handful of available Large Language Models (LLMs) can be overwhelming for anyone. With popular options like ChatGPT, Gemini, LLama, and Claude, along with numerous smaller models offering niche capabilities, the choices, reminiscent of a New Jersey diner menu, seem endless. Additionally, the abundance of eLearning and instructor-led training options provided by various companies further complicates the decision-making process. Analysis paralysis can easily kick in. To combat all of this, I suggest:
"Just Pick One."
I know, I know, you were probably expecting a more elaborate recommendation or a detailed roadmap to kickstart your learning journey. However, this is often the initial stumbling block that holds learners back. The would-be learners worry over choosing the wrong GenAI tool, fearing they'll fall behind or that the one they don't select will become the go-to LLM in the future. If you, like some leaders, need a little nudge, I recommend starting with ChatGPT. OpenAI's LLM, ChatGPT, is arguably the most popular one at the moment, so beginning there shouldn't lead to regrets.
Keep in mind, GenAI is not just for tech professionals, non-tech individuals can efficiently utilize any of the popular GenAI models. In fact, after a case study conducted within Cognixia, we observed an average productivity increase of 24.43% for non-technical business professionals using GenAI compared to those who didn't. You just have to pick one to start and have your team follow.
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The Endless Wave of Updates
You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of updates and newer versions of AI models, in fact, you are likely in the majority. However, this should not deter you from learning how to efficiently use GenAI. Begin with foundational courses that cover the essential application of the models. Realistically, you won't need to cover the intricacies of neural networks or fine-tuning the model's parameters beyond the default settings. Don't even concern yourself with the more complicated jargon and features.
Focus on the basics; how to navigate within the model, creating prompts, making minor iterations (alterations), and learning simple methodologies to achieve your goals. Try to avoid fully depending on learning through courses that "talk at you", make sure to partake in a form of learning that allows you some type of hands-on projects, assessments, and/or interactions.
Building a solid foundation in these fundamentals will pave the way for further steps in understanding how to use the model. Once you have these down, you'll be equipped to teach them to your team. From there, I recommend a series of additional steps for new leaders to leverage AI models in their management practices, specifically around coaching and scenario simulations. If you missed it, be sure to check out the previous article in this series, GenAI as a Leadership Collaborator for exactly some of those steps.
Relevant to My Day to Day
During a recent dinner with industry professional friends, ranging from healthcare to insurance and staffing, many expressed the concerns about the underutilization of GenAI in their respective businesses. They shared that their company hasn't offered training, they themselves haven't used GenAI for business and one of them said their executives were against using GenAI tools. Surprisingly, the hesitation doesn't stem from security concerns but rather from a general lack of awareness and familiarity with its applications.
I'll be the first to say that GenAI may not be a universal solution in each industry, however it does provide an opportunity for any professional to increase their efficiency, particularly new leaders balancing team time management challenges. Starting with everyday tasks like drafting emails, marketing social media posts, summarization of lengthy documents or meeting notes, idea generation, translations, and scheduling can be streamlined with GenAI for any professional. Each of these tasks, though seemingly insignificant, ultimately saves time throughout the day and contributes to repeatable time-saving practices. Chances are, you'll find yourself utilizing GenAI for these tasks multiple times a week.
If looking to go more industry-specific there are many use case resources that are online that can help provide guidance on GenAI's impact in various roles and sectors. However, it's essential to proceed with caution and adhere to company policies when integrating GenAI into workflows, especially when handling sensitive corporate information.
The Wrap Up
With new technologies and innovations, there is occasionally a mindset that is resistant to change. This mindset has hindered the growth of many companies and individuals. However, as a Rising Leader, you must adopt a mindset of openness and adaptability to new technologies and processes. Embracing innovation, such as learning and leveraging GenAI, is important in staying ahead of the curve and ensuring your future development.
By dedicating time to the foundational aspects of GenAI, you may discover that the initial investment in learning provides significant returns in terms of efficiency and productivity. Ultimately, increased efficiency and the mindset of adaptability benefits not only yourself, but also your entire team and that is what being a leader is all about.