We all know we’re entering a brand new chapter in how we work. AI is happening fast. It’s really cool but also kinda scary.

But one way to think about it that makes it so much more accessible is this:
People first. Technology second.

We have learned that when companies lead with technology and try to shoehorn employees into it as an afterthought, it doesn’t go well. When you start with people and how they actually work, you can build technology tools that have the least disruption as possible.

And that’s important in the age of AI because now more than ever, we can customize technology in powerful ways. When you involve your team, you unlock more adoption and therefore more value.,

That’s why at Creative Change, we say People First. Technology Second.

Here are five powerful reasons why putting people first is the best way to lead through AI:

Reason 1: You Get Real ROI
When people use the tools you give them, you get results. If they don’t use them, you don’t.

This is why historically 70% of digital transformations fail to live up to their promise: lack of adoption. Now is our chance to change that dynamic. It’s not a nice to have. It’s an imperative for success.

Reason 2: AI Loves Working With People
The best uses of AI today? They’re not about replacing humans. They’re about partnering with us.

AI can spark creativity. Help you make decisions faster. Turn good ideas into great ones.

Start by getting a ChatGPT plus account. Talk to it like a colleague. Share your ideas. You’ll be surprised what it unlocks.

Reason 3: This Tech Moves Fast

This technology is a change in and of itself, but on top of that, all the innovation it makes possible are also changes.

So the companies that succeed are the ones that build teams who are always learning, always adapting,
always excited to try the next thing.

That kind of culture starts with leadership that puts people first.

Reason 4: Cutting Costs Is Not a Vision

Sure, AI can streamline. But if your big goal is just to reduce headcount, you’re missing the real opportunity.

The future belongs to bold, creative companies who use AI to amplify their people, not replace them.

Reason 5: We Get to Choose the Future

Here’s the really exciting part: We’re building something new. And we get to decide how human it is.

AI has the power to cut humans out of the loop. We can’t let that happen. The way to guard against this is, again, to put people first and create solutions that exponentialize human potential.

If you’re a business leader wondering where to start,
start with your people. Ask them:

How are they using AI in their personal lives?
How are they using it at work?
How do they feel about it?
What vision do they have for their job that can leverage AI to bring out their innovation, creativity, wisdom and unique skillset?

Because when we put people first, tech becomes a whole lot more powerful.

Just remember: People First. Technology Second. Always.