In my monthly roundup posts I compile and summarize the four most compelling articles on an important, timely topic, emotional and artificial intelligence.
Recently, I’ve come across numerous articles detailing the ways in which AI is revolutionizing various aspects of our work lives. From reviewing legal contracts to crafting product descriptions and supporting customer service teams, the scope of AI’s influence seems boundless—at least according to my news feed! However, as AI’s algorithms continue to analyze data, streamline processes, and revolutionize the business ecosystem, I can’t help but ponder a related question: Is our growing dependence on AI impacting our emotional intelligence?
This is an important question, because AI is the fastest growing industry in the world and it is rapidly changing how we work and lead. As a digital transformation and change strategist, I know that the bedrock of effective leadership when navigating change is emotional intelligence. Change and emotional intelligence are tightly intertwined. If your organization’s leadership team is lacking in EI, this can translate into a host of negative impacts that are further exacerbated in times of change, including diminished productivity, higher turnover rates, heightened stress levels, decreased employee engagement, stifled creativity, impaired communication, and general discord within teams.
So, what’s the bottom line on how AI is impacting our emotional intelligence? Read on for a summary of the most compelling research I’ve read on this topic.
Can AI Teach Us How to Become More Emotionally Intelligent?
This HBR article offers an interesting middle road in the debate over whether AI will replace humans in the workforce. Usually this discussion boils down to the idea that AI will replace humans for most repetitive and manual labor tasks, while humans will excel at soft skills like creative communication and relationship-building. However, this article argues that AI will ultimately help humans do better human work, namely by helping us improve our emotional intelligence, soft skills, and interpersonal communication skills.
Emotions Are Coming to Artificial Intelligence. Will Machines Truly Feel?
This insightful article from Inc Magazine discusses the idea that as society and workplaces increasingly recognize the importance of emotional intelligence, AI will now be compelled to navigate the complex terrain of human emotions. I.e., AI will have to learn how to “feel.” The piece details innovative AI models designed to be “emotionally aware,” capable of emulating human emotions and responses with striking accuracy.
One interesting case study they explore is the idea of using AI to understand the emotional state of employees, which could help organizations foster a more supportive and productive environment by detecting stress or dissatisfaction early on in order to address issues before they escalate.
How emotional intelligence can help you thrive in the age of AI
Taking another view, this article from CEO magazine purports that emotional intelligence is a uniquely human form of intelligence that AI won’t ever be able to replicate. And thus leaders who want to successfully ride the wave of AI innovation won’t do so by mimicking machines, but by leaning in to cultivating their emotional intelligence.
This recent research from EY serves as an important reminder to leaders amidst the evolving landscape of AI advancements. While the future remains shrouded in uncertainty, one thing is clear, emotional intelligence will emerge as an indispensable trait that distinguishes exceptional leaders from the ordinary ones. Encouragingly, the research underscores that emotional intelligence is a skill that can be learned. By prioritizing self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, and social skills, leaders can enhance their emotional intelligence and adapt to the dynamic demands of a digital ecosystem.