By Joseph Osapah MANKOE Jnr.
The contemporary employee's unobtrusive assistant known as AI
Nowadays, AI tools such as ChatGPT, QuillBot, and GrammarlyGO are subtly assisting us in completing our tasks. Reports, emails, and memos. They have integrated into the workflow.
That's not the problem. The real issue arises when individuals allow AI to handle everything. No revisions. No further review. Just copy, paste, and send. Even more concerning, some do read what AI produces but only to appreciate how refined it sounds. They aren't reading to grasp the content. They're reading to feel intelligent.
That's not being efficient. That's avoiding the task.
A Brief Tale from My Workspace
I received a memo a few days back. It appeared well-written. The grammar was correct. The structure was smooth. It sounded like it came from a professional writer. However, I also knew the person who sent it. And I realized it didn't sound like them. It turned out to be an AI-generated draft, sent without any revisions or a second review. Although it looked professional, it failed to convey the main message.
At another instance, an individual created presentation slides for a leadership topic with the help of AI. The slides appeared clean and professional. However, when faced with inquiries, he found it difficult to articulate the concepts.
Not that he lacked the ability, but rather because he hadn't invested enough time in thoroughly exploring the material. The project reached the executive level. However, regrettably, he was never given the opportunity to fully demonstrate his own comprehension.
It Sounds Pleasant, But Is It Practical?
Artificial intelligence can make everything appear refined. However, don't be deceived by well-written text:
- The significance could be lost or ambiguous.
- People start to wonder: Did this individual truly comprehend what they transmitted?
Here's the reality: AI will confidently rephrase anything you provide, even if your original content is incorrect. It may appear correct, even when it isn't. That's why it's up to you to direct it. Adjust the tone. Make the message clearer. Take responsibility for the final result.
Not Always Lazy — Sometimes It's Anxiety
Many individuals do not excessively depend on artificial intelligence due to their lack of motivation. Frequently, they experience fear:
- Scared of writing poorly.
- Scared of looking unprofessional.
- Afraid of committing errors in the presence of supervisors or colleagues.
Especially for junior employees, this fear is genuine. They aim to perform well. They wish to appear competent. Therefore, if AI can make something "look correct," they simply send it off.
However, if no one takes the time to assist them in comprehending the output of the tool, and if no one guides them in learning to think and write independently, they remain stagnant. Their unique voice fails to emerge. Their self-assurance does not increase.
So, leaders: rather than simply stating“Don’t rely on AI,” ask,
Are you aware of what this means?
Does this resonate with you?
That’s where mentorship begins.
How to Properly Utilize Artificial Intelligence
There is a distinction between employing AI effectively and merely seeking easy ways out.
Unhelpful Use:
- Copy and paste the AI response.
- Hit send without thinking.
- Hope it lands well.
Helpful Use:
- Start with AI, not end with it.
- Edit 30–40% according to your true comprehension.
- Ask: Would I genuinely express this in a meeting?
So, Who’s Responsible?
Companies have a role:
- Establish well-defined limits on the areas where AI is utilized and those where it is not.
- Provide basic instruction, not only onhow to use it, but when and why.
Staff members also play a part:
- Understand the capabilities and limitations of the tool.
- Regularly examine and tailor the initial version.
- If your name is associated with it, ensure your thoughts are also aligned with it.
This is a collective obligation.
Companies must teach.
People must think.
Stay Competitive in the Age of AI, Keep This in Mind:
- Understand your tool.Don't merely utilize artificial intelligence, understand its functioning.
- Own your message.Don't merely appear intelligent, reflect andbe smart.
- Think about your reader.Is this understandable and useful?
- Strengthen people skills.Artificial intelligence cannot substitute for trust, physical presence, or emotional warmth.
- Keep your voice.Don't abandon your authentic voice, that's your advantage.
- Check for real value:
- Did I offer clarity or understanding?
- Would I believe this if someone sent it to me?
- Could I confidently explain this without a screen in front of me?
Final Thought
Artificial intelligence is a device, a useful one. However, it cannot replace comprehension, speech, or being there.
Make the most of it, but let your thoughts guide you and ensure your opinion is expressed. This is what maintains your value in this evolving work environment.
Joseph Osapah Mankoe Jnr, an experienced IT expert with more than ten years of experience, holds the position of Head of IT at Merban Capital LTD. He has effectively led strategic projects, such as IT infrastructure improvements, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and smooth office moves.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).