This is a question that we, as leaders and organizations, must be asking ourselves in the interest of improving our teams and workplaces with the growing nature of AI as a resource.

The companies and leaders who figure out how to leverage AI to their advantage will thrive. Those who don’t risk falling behind, and I don’t want that for you or your organization.

I’ve been having this conversation with my clients lately since AI has been infiltrating the financial services industry at an unprecedented pace. It’s changing how we operate, engage with clients, and run our businesses. While this can cause disruptions, this transformation is inevitable, and the way leaders respond will determine whether their teams adapt successfully—or struggle to keep up.

Where Do You Stand on AI Adoption?

History shows that leaders fall into three broad categories when it comes to adopting change:

• Early adopters – Those who embrace new technology and look for ways to integrate it before others.
• Pragmatic adopters – Leaders who wait for proof of impact before making a move.
• Skeptics – Those who resist change until adoption is unavoidable.

As a leader, it’s critical to assess where you—and your company—stand within your approach to the integration of AI. Are your leaders excited about AI’s potential? Hesitant and unsure? Or outright resistant? The sooner you understand your team’s mindset, the sooner you can develop a strategy that aligns with your vision.

How Are You Viewing AI?

In speaking with leaders and organizations, I have found that there can be discrepancies between the vision you have and the implementation of that vision through your leaders.

For example, many leaders are concerned about how AI will impact their jobs. How they view it will affect whether they embrace or reject it. Some can choose to see it as a threat, fearing automation will replace their roles. Others can view it as a collaborator, a tool to make their work more efficient and impactful.

The truth is that AI isn’t going anywhere. The leaders who will thrive are those who position themselves as the go-to experts—the ones who embrace AI, learn how to use it effectively, and help their teams integrate it into daily operations. Instead of resisting change, how can you lead the charge in making AI work for you and your organization?

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in AI Adoption

Successfully integrating AI requires more than technical skills—it demands self-awareness and keen emotional intelligence. Leaders must:

1. Manage their own fears – Acknowledge uncertainty but focus on possibilities.
2. Understand their team’s emotions – Recognize the anxiety AI might bring and address concerns proactively.
3. Cultivate a culture of trust and adaptability – Encourage open dialogue, provide training, and make AI an opportunity, not a threat.

One of the most significant challenges leaders face is fear of the unknown. Water cooler conversations, whispers about job security, and unspoken anxiety can slow down AI adoption. That’s why leaders must be strategic, informed, and proactive in guiding their teams through this transition. Staying informed provides confidence about the possibilities for the future of the team’s roles and the company as a whole.

The Competitive Advantage of Future-Ready Leaders

Driving the company’s vision forward requires thoughtfully integrating these technologies to stay ahead of the curve rather than falling behind. Companies that embrace disruptive technologies like AI and Machine Learning will see higher efficiency, improved personalization, and stronger ROI. The longer you wait and keep your head in the sand, the harder it will be to catch up. 

In highly regulated industries like financial services, the challenges are complex, but the opportunities are equally significant.

It’s important to address where you fall, individually and in your organization, in the process of addressing these challenges and opportunities. This is the time to ask yourself:

Where do we stand on AI adoption?

How can we integrate AI into our operations to benefit our clients, business, and employees?

How are our leaders equipped to navigate this transformation with confidence and clarity?

If AI or significant tech adoption is your top priority—and if you want to ensure your leaders are ready to guide their teams through this shift—let’s have a conversation.

Every leader and team member should be asking: “How can I leverage AI to work smarter, faster, and better?”

If you’re ready to explore how we can help your organization and technology leaders stay ahead by addressing the people aspect of implementing and adopting disruptive technologies, I’d love to connect. Schedule a call with me at www.CallWithGinny.com, and let’s discuss how we can prepare your leaders for the future of work today.

Make it count!

Coach Ginny