Lareina Yee, a McKinsey technology expert and contributor to the McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook 2024, joins Roger Roberts, a senior partner, to explore fascinating tech trends. They discuss the swift advancements in generative AI and its importance for business innovation. The pair also highlight the need for effective communication strategies for CEOs, especially in crisis situations, and delve into the electrification trend as a key driver for carbon-free energy, emphasizing the role of emerging technologies and digital trust.

Alexander Sukharevsky, a senior partner at McKinsey focused on AI in the workplace, joins Lareina Yee, an expert in organizational dynamics, along with editorial director Roberta Fusaro, to explore the transformative impact of generative AI on business. They discuss the importance of balancing custom solutions with existing models while addressing talent needs and ethical governance. Additionally, Sherina Ebrahim shares essential tips on speaking up at work, emphasizing the power of effective self-advocacy and positive communication.

Becoming a boss is a step up and should feel like one, but for so many women it doesn’t, at least initially. Too often, the people we’re newly responsible for ignore our direction and question our judgment. We end up deflated and puzzled. Why won’t anyone follow my lead? Am I not cut out for this? Did my boss make a mistake in promoting me? There are still a lot of biases in society against women’s leadership abilities, and it’s maddening how they can cause us to question ourselves. As difficult as defiance is to face—especially when you’re settling in yourself—we have ideas for making it clear that you’re in charge. McKinsey’s Lareina Yee recounts the actions that senior leaders took that affirmed her position. Kelsey reflects on the disrespect she felt as a first-time manager, as well as her discomfort with power, and Amy B helps her make sense of those experiences and feelings. If you manage a woman who’s a new manager, this episode is for you too! Guest expert: Lareina Yee is a senior partner at McKinsey and the co-founder of the Women in the Workplace report. Resources: “‘Lean In’ Messages and the Illusion of Control,” by Grainne Fitzsimons et al. “How Women Manage the Gendered Norms of Leadership,” by Wei Zheng et al. “Ask an Expert: How Do I Deal with Upward Bullying as a New Manager?” by LeRon L. Barton “When People Assume You’re Not In Charge Because You’re a Woman,” by Amy Diehl and Leanne M. Dzubinski HBR’s 10 Must Reads for New Managers, by Michael D. Watkins Sign up for the Women at Work newsletter. Email us: womenatwork@hbr.org