Warning: Will you make this mistake using AI?

I remember one of our clients constantly ChatGPT-ing everything, from board meeting discussions to complex consulting problems and even problems with his wife. His board members kept complaining behind his back that he was oversimplifying complex problems to the point that he would end up believing in answers that were neither practical nor well thought-out. Of course, we got this client back to the side of sanity and helped him avoid making costly mistakes, but there is a larger warning in this story.

The AI trap

In the rapidly evolving landscape of business, the allure of artificial intelligence (AI) has become almost irresistible. Promises of efficiency, precision and cost-effectiveness have led many to consider AI as a substitute for human expertise in various domains, including professional expert advice. There is a huge risk in this that will cause more than one executive to fail, and it will cost countless business owners millions in profit.

At my global consulting company, we have had extensive experience working as consultants, mentors and advisors to Fortune 500 CEOs and wealthy business owners from around the world, including billionaire entrepreneurs. We have reshaped the organizations and cultures of famous global brands and countless family business conglomerates. We have seen firsthand the unparalleled impact that personal, human-to-human interaction can have on leadership and organizational change.

The irreplaceable value of personal coaching and consulting for CEOs and business owners lies in the nuanced, deeply human elements that AI simply cannot replicate.

Human experience, empathy

The most profound advantage of personal coaching and consulting is the depth of human experience and empathy. Human consultants bring to the table years of experience, intuition and the ability to understand and navigate complex emotional landscapes. They can read between the lines, sensing unspoken concerns and motivations. This approach helps in building trust and fostering a strong coach-client relationship, which is essential for meaningful change.

Customized strategies

AI-driven solutions often rely on data and algorithms. While this can be effective in certain contexts, it lacks the adaptability and customization that human consultants offer. Personal coaches and consultants tailor their strategies to fit the unique needs, strengths and weaknesses of each individual. They customize solutions to the unique needs of an organization and its people. They can pivot and adjust their approach in real time based on the CEO’s evolving circumstances and feedback.

Enhanced buy-in, engagement

Change management is most effective when there is a high level of buy-in and engagement from those involved. Personal coaching, consulting and advice foster a sense of accountability and ownership with people across all departments. When top management or owners work closely with seasoned and highly experienced advisors who bring a wealth of global knowledge and expertise, they feel invested in the process and committed to the actions required for success. The personal interaction and encouragement from an expert advisor motivates and inspires leaders in ways that AI cannot.

Complex dynamics

Business success often hinges on managing relationships and navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. Human consultants excel in understanding the subtleties of organizational culture and politics. They can mediate conflicts, facilitate difficult conversations and build bridges between stakeholders. This ability to manage human dynamics is crucial for effective leadership and is something that AI cannot replicate.

Real-world problem solving

Human consultants bring practical, real-world problem-solving skills honed through years of experience. They draw on a vast reservoir of knowledge to provide insights and solutions that are grounded in reality. This practical wisdom is invaluable in addressing unique challenges.

Emotional support

The journey of a CEO can be isolating and stressful. Having a trusted advisor who can offer encouragement, perspective and reassurance is incredibly important. This emotional connection and support system is a critical component of coaching that AI simply cannot provide.

Cultural transformation

One of the most significant roles of a personal consultant is in transforming the culture of an organization. This involves not only implementing practical tools and systems to make the organization leaner and higher performing but also changing the underlying culture. Effective change management requires providing executives and employees with the right tools and processes while fostering a new cultural mindset.

We have seen in countless examples around the world that this dual approach can only work if it includes a human element. Human-to-human interaction, paired with the knowledge and expertise of a lifelong career in change management and consulting, is crucial. Only through personal engagement can consultants effectively inspire, guide and support leaders and their teams in making lasting and meaningful changes.

Famous CEOs, entrepreneurs

Bill Gates has often spoken about the value of feedback and guidance from his coach. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet, also benefits from personal coaching. These leaders recognize that despite the advancements in AI, the human touch provides insights, motivation and guidance that are irreplaceable. Their reliance on personal coaching underscores the enduring importance and effectiveness of human-driven consulting.

The future of leadership

While AI continues to revolutionize various aspects of business, the irreplaceable value of personal coaching and consulting for CEOs and business owners remains clear. The human elements of empathy, adaptability, engagement, real-world experience, emotional support and ability to transform organizational culture are essential for effective leadership and cannot be replicated by AI. For CEOs seeking true transformation and growth, personal coaching and consulting will always be superior. INQ

Tom Oliver, a “global management guru” (Bloomberg), is the chair of The Tom Oliver Group, the trusted advisor and counselor to many of the world’s most influential family businesses, medium-sized enterprises, market leaders and global conglomerates. For more information and inquiries: www.TomOliverGroup.com or email [email protected].