Preparing your workforce for the AI transformation

In this conversation with HTEC’s Chief Product & Design Officer Carsten Wierwille, Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work, discusses how successful leaders are preparing their workforce for AI. Trust is the foundation of successful AI transformation — and leaders who acknowledge fear honestly, listen deeply, and prioritize their people's growth will unlock adoption far more effectively than any technology mandate.

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Michael arguesthat a great workplace in the AI era is one where people feel AI will help themgrow, become more valuable, and build better lives — rather than threaten theirlivelihoods. He notes that trust is at an all-time premium right now precisely becausefear is so high: employees feel unprepared, under-trained, and left out of AIdecisions being made above them. That fear directly fuels resistance, which isthe last thing organizations need when trying to drive adoption of newtechnology.

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Michael's core advice is to resist the instinct to dismiss or talk people out of their fear. Instead, leaders should acknowledge it, listen deeply, and be radically transparent —including admitting what they don't know. He cautions against hollow reassurances like "no jobs will be lost," arguing that honesty, even uncomfortable honesty, builds more trust than false certainty. Storytelling — sharing personal experiences of navigating past uncertainty — is his recommended tool for connecting with early-career employees who have already weathered COVID disruption and are now facing AI on top of it.

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Watch the full conversation to hear how leaders can earn trust through transparency, empathy, and honest dialogue.