HOW TO PREPARE YOUR PEOPLE FOR AI
Roland NicholsBy Tracy Heideman, Partner, Wipfli LLP and Wipfli Advisory LLC
AI is reshaping how work gets done. Many organizations have embraced the change by focusing on data readiness and technology platforms. But in times of uncertainty and change, the human response is just as critical — if not more.
Trust, confidence and adaptability can make or break your AI strategy.
UNCERTAINTY RAISES THE STAKES FOR AI ADOPTION
Technology rollouts are often treated as tactical initiatives. But in uncertain times — when markets shift, regulations change or new tools rewrite the rules — employee anxiety can intensify. Fear of losing relevance or control can lead to underuse or even resistance.
To succeed with AI, leaders need to involve people in technology conversations early, validate their concerns and stay flexible. Clearly explaining how AI enhances — not replaces — human roles can significantly improve adoption and engagement.
HOW TO BUILD A PEOPLE-FIRST AI ROADMAP
To instill confidence and build enthusiasm for AI, organizations can:
- Craft an inspiring vision. Demonstrate how AI will remove barriers or eliminate mundane tasks and help employees meet business and personal goals.
- Set ethical guardrails. Be transparent about how data will be used and train teams to recognize misuse and bias. Emphasize the critical — and irreplaceable — role of human oversight.
- Structure and stagger rollouts. Start teaching AI basics to build confidence before moving on to job-specific tools. Create safe spaces for learning and encourage peer-to-peer support.
- Use flexible communication strategies. Provide ongoing updates, tailored for different audiences and support needs. Be honest about the unknowns and clear about your strategy and next steps.
- Ask for feedback. Establish listening channels to catch and respond to issues early — including pulse surveys, focus groups or listening sessions. Look for feedback in the numbers, too. Usage data and KPIs signal how adoption is going.
Approaching AI with a people-first mentality builds resilience. In uncertain times, people — not platforms — drive real results.
HOW WIPFLI CAN HELP
Middle-market leaders can build agility by investing in their teams — not just their technology. Visit our resource hub for practical guidance and real-world examples of how companies are navigating uncertainty, including AI.
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The themes in How to Prepare Your People for AI connect directly to this year’s Phorum 2026: Designing the AI-powered Enterprise. As organizations work to build trust, clarity and confidence around AI, Phorum brings together the leaders who are shaping how AI is implemented inside real companies. Find out more and register.
