In a conversation with some engineers and technical fellows recently, we were talking about use of AI and copilots and how it changed the way we worked. We agreed, yes, these tools can help us work differently, sometimes more rapidly, adding new skills to our toolbox. But as leaders, we have to also think about another question -- when we live in a world where Copilots are the norm, how do we make sure we don't lose touch with the core skills that helped grow our careers? Reflecting on this for our own function as communicators, the value and skills we should continue to hone are the ones that can’t be automated: making connections others don’t see, building trust across silos, and turning insights into shared momentum. Every meeting and engagement is an opportunity to create or strengthen your network; over time that network and the ability to convene people with different skill sets and points of view is a huge asset for us as communicators. Copilot gives us time back. Let's not use that time to do more of what we've been doing; let's use that time to invest in the thing that moves the needle: relationships. How have you grown your network lately?
As we use AI to write, and as other's use AI to summarize, I imagine we will eventually split the difference and just write the summary at the offset. Perhaps AI will help us cut through noise, and build deeper connections?
"Let's not use that time to do more of what we've been doing; let's use that time to invest in the thing that moves the needle: relationships." That's exactly right, Frank. As AI becomes more prevalent, the soft skills will become more relevant.
To me the question / mission is not how do we make sure WE don't lose touch with the core skills that helped grow our careers, but rather how do we develop and grow the next generation of comms talent in an AI world.
Hi Mr. Frank X. Shaw, I’m Rogério Leite dos Santos, from Brazil, and I kindly ask for your help with an urgent personal matter. I lost access to my old Hotmail account (rogerioleite_13@hotmail.com) and can’t recover it because I don’t remember the password, don’t have the recovery phone, and the automatic recovery form doesn’t accept my answers — even though I provide accurate and honest information. This email is very important to me, both personally and professionally, and it’s also connected to my Facebook account. I fully respect Microsoft’s security policies, but in my case, the process has been too strict. If you can’t help directly, I would be deeply grateful if you could forward my request to someone inside Microsoft who can assist me. Thank you for your time and attention. Best regards, Rogério Leite dos Santos 📧 Alternate email: rogerioleitegjsa@gmail.com
Public Relations + Communications
1dI think the same could be said for remote/hybrid work. Without a long commute - how are we repurposing that time to maintain/grow relationships? How are we replacing those conversations that used to naturally occur in the workplace? The combination of AI tools and social distance could mean intellectual isolation, so we have to rethink how we prioritize social interaction, and how we use AI tools to make it easier to stay on top of those important soft activities that allow us to be curious and connected.