#277 How Generative AI is Changing Leadership with Christie Smith, Founder of the Humanity Institute and Kelly Monahan, Managing Director, Upwork Research Institute
Jan 23, 2025
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Christie Smith, founder of The Humanity Studio and a visionary leadership expert, teams up with Kelly Monahan, Managing Director of Upwork Research Institute, to discuss the evolving landscape of leadership. They explore how generative AI is redefining workplace relationships, stressing the importance of human-centered environments that prioritize employee well-being. Key topics include adapting leadership styles to a collaborative model, the impact of AI on job markets, and how to meet the demands of Generation Z in the workforce.
Leaders must create human-centered workplaces that prioritize purpose and connection to meet evolving employee needs amidst technological transformation.
Integrating AI effectively requires leaders to focus on employee training and a culture of continuous learning to adapt to changing skill demands.
Deep dives
The Future of Work and Leadership Changes
The workplace is undergoing significant transformation driven by technology, especially with the rise of remote work and generative AI. These changes challenge traditional leadership styles and require a shift in how managers engage with their teams. Historical events, such as World War II and the financial crisis of 2008, have previously altered workforce dynamics and can provide insights into adapting leadership in today's context. Leaders must recognize the evolving needs of employees and the importance of creating a human-centered work environment to navigate these changes successfully.
Human-Centered Workplaces
Human-centered workplaces prioritize the needs of employees by focusing on four key areas: purpose, agency, well-being, and connection. Employees are increasingly looking for meaningful work that aligns with their organization's values and provides a sense of purpose. They also desire autonomy in their roles, which enhances job satisfaction and productivity. Building connections among team members is essential, especially in hybrid and remote settings, and organizations must intentionally create opportunities for engagement and collaboration.
The Role of AI in Workplaces
AI is transforming the nature of work, leading to both opportunities and challenges for employees and organizations. It is crucial for leaders to integrate AI as a tool that complements human capabilities rather than a replacement. Investing in employee training and development is necessary to ensure the workforce adapts to new technologies, with a focus on governance models for responsible AI usage. Leaders should foster a culture of learning and innovation, allowing employees to thrive alongside advancing technology.
Skills Commoditization and Leadership Demands
As skills evolve and become commoditized due to technological advancements, organizations face challenges in identifying and addressing skill gaps. The demand for specialized skills is growing; generalist roles may become less relevant as technology takes over routine tasks. Leaders are tasked with creating environments that encourage continuous learning and adaptation among employees, ensuring they stay relevant in their roles. Emotionally mature leaders who can foster teamwork and curiosity will be essential in navigating the complexities of the modern workforce.
Leadership is facing unprecedented challenges in today's socio-political and economic climate. As the lines between work and personal life blur, professionals are seeking workplaces that prioritize humanity and purpose. How can leaders create environments that support employee well-being and connection? With AI's growing presence, how do we balance technological integration with maintaining a human-centered approach?
Dr. Christie Smith is a renowned leadership expert, visionary thinker, and founder of The Humanity Studio, a pioneering research and advisory institute dedicated to improving the way we live by revolutionizing the way we work. With over 35 years of experience advising Fortune 500 companies and holding global leadership roles at Accenture, Apple, and Deloitte, Dr. Smith has shaped the future of leadership, talent strategy, and organizational culture across industries.
Dr. Kelly Monahan is Managing Director of the Upwork Research Institute, leading their future of work research program. Her research has been recognized and published in both applied and academic journals, including MIT Sloan Management Review and the Journal of Strategic Management. In 2018, Kelly released her first book, “How Behavioral Economics Influences Management Decision-Making: A New Paradigm” (Academic Press/Elsevier Publishers). In 2019, Kelly gave her first TedX talk on the future of work. Kelly is frequently quoted in the media on talent decision-making and the future of work. She also has written over a dozen publications and is a sought-after speaker on how to apply new management and talent models in knowledge-based organizations. Kelly holds a B.S. from Rochester Institute of Technology, an M.S. from Roberts Wesleyan College, and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Regent University.
In the episode, Richie, Christie, and Kelly explore leadership transformations driven by crises, the rise of human-centered workplaces, the integration of AI with human intelligence, the evolving skill landscape, the emergence of gray-collar work, and much more.