To my business readership and leadership audience: as AI platforms boost efficiency, how do we ensure we maintain authentic, human-centered leadership rather than becoming overly dependent on automation?
Are we using automation while still maintaining emotional presence?
I use ChatGPT. I attend AI conferences. I explore the advancements of future technology. Recently, I spoke with a local businesswoman who also loves using AI. Then she paused and asked herself, “Am I depending on AI more than my own creativity and intelligence?”
That question stayed with me.
As a business consultant, TEDx speaker coach and Toastmasters International member, I am learning how great leaders and speakers captivate and inspire their audiences. It is their ability to connect with others through storytelling and emotional resonance. They present a clear idea and align it with a universal truth worth exploring.
That is leadership. That is why human connection still wins in this Age of AI. But before explaining why, let’s clarify the difference between using automation as a tool and letting it replace our personal leadership presence.
Bot Heads & Avatars
A Bot Head is not merely someone who uses AI. Instead, a Bot Head is someone who allows automation to override their human judgment, creativity and accountability, using technology as a replacement rather than a support for their unique qualities.
Bots operate through organized algorithms. Do this and get that, but only if you ask the right question. It’s progress, yes. But it is not perfect.
Creating your own Avatar is no longer futuristic. Today, business platforms promise you can record once, automate everything, and let your Avatar represent you while you are sipping a Pina Colada in the Bahamas.
Bots and avatars themselves are not the problem. The concern arises when our reliance on automation overshadows our leadership presence and creative intelligence.
In every client meeting, networking event and person-to-person relationship I experience, trust is built through emotional presence and genuine connection—not just efficiency.
Why Human Connection Still Wins
Here in Santa Cruz County, in our Valleys and communities, we still gather, share stories, support local events and read about one another in our newspapers. In TED and TEDx talks, there is one common ingredient: connection.
There is neural synchronization between the speaker and the listener. An idea travels from one mind to another. That transmission does not occur solely through efficiency. It happens through presence.
Efficiency is rising. Automation and AI will expand in many roles. But my central question is: if we automate ourselves out of meaningful connection, what future are we building for leadership and businesses?
Avatars Don’t Build Trust
Technology can assist delivery, but trust is built through human energy.
You may not fully agree with my position. That is fine. I simply believe in the Power of Human Magic. Throughout history, it has been our human connection, our emotions and grounded leadership that have guided us through both struggle and celebration.
Leadership in the Age of AI does not require rejecting technology. It requires deliberate use of AI while actively safeguarding what sets us apart: our humanity. Let’s use AI as a tool, not a substitute, so our leadership remains relevant and human-centered.
We need each other. It is essential.
Janet Janssen is a business consultant and speaker coach who champions programs for leadership teams and aspiring speakers. She is a board member of Leadership Santa Cruz County, Toastmaster and SLV, SV and SC Chamber member. Resources: TED Talks, Chris Anderson, Grammarly and ChatGPT.
