We live in a world where automation is all the rage these days. Validly so. There are so many opportunities throughout businesses to leverage technology and automation to drive efficiencies and cost savings. However, one area where automation hasn’t quite panned out for businesses is in the people leadership space.
While there may be some aspects of people leadership where automated solutions may eventually be feasible, those are largely “rote tasks” of people leadership that aren’t the driving force behind a leader’s ability to move a team from idea to execution.
Here are three reasons leadership still matters in our ever-changing, technological and automated world.
Good Leadership Can’t Be Automated
Reason 1: People Understand People
Only humans understand the human condition/experience. Every single person has different needs, desires, ways that help motivate them to take action, and even ways they like to feel appreciated and recognized. Only other humans can modify their approach to support these varying needs for each individual and by cultivating a leadership presence within their industry, leaders can operate from a place of confidence and trust, showcasing the values they stand for and being transparent with who and what really matters.
Reason 2: People Need Connections
Humans crave connection. Even the most introverted of people want to create connections with others and we see this in online spaces like social media, online dating, gaming etc. Researchers refer to the concept of “social connection” as the feeling of belonging to a group—and we all want to belong. There is no way around it, robots and AI (artificial intelligence) cannot replicate the feeling of belonging or connect on a deeper level with a human.
Scientific evidence strongly suggests that connection is a core psychological need essential to feeling satisfied with your life. In a study conducted by Dan Schawbel for his book “Back to Human”, he found that 63% out of 2,000 of introverts feel lonely at work. The human connection is real, and leaders who are grounded in who they are and connect with others, inspire others.
Reason 3: People Want to Belong
Now more than ever, companies must show they care for their people, and their leaders are front line for this. People are not simply satisfied with a robot listening and responding to their description of their bad week, the challenges with balancing work/life, or mental health issues. When leaders employ simple tactics to be more present, for example: checking in with teams before and after meetings. Following up with, or simply touching base on a more personal level when time allows, they are creating a general environment that fosters trust and openness among the team and leaders.
A great leader has the ability to inspire action through proper guidance and mentorship and uses their knowledge to educate others along the way. A great leader also practices what they preach by also “going the same way.”
“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way” — John C Maxwell.
Conclusion
So, as we continue to navigate this automated way of life, remember that leaning into growing as a leader is well-worth the investment, time, money and energy—even in the age of automation.