decision-making, and enabling teams to focus on more critical work. From smart assistants managing schedules to systems providing rapid data insights, AI ' s purpose is to simplify work and boost productivity.
By automating simple tasks, AI can free up employees from administrative burdens. This allows them to dedicate more time to creative thinking, problemsolving, and collaboration. The common understanding is that AI enhances human capabilities by handling mundane tasks, thereby improving our thought processes and work efficiency. In this view, AI doesn ' t replace people; it serves as a supportive teammate, coach, or tool, smoothing workflows and creating new opportunities for innovation and growth. However, this perspective only tells part of the story.
While AI offers notable benefits, it also presents unforeseen challenges. Its advantages are accompanied by drawbacks that can negatively impact job complexity, induce stress, and diminish the autonomy of employees and teams concerning decisions influenced by AI outputs.
The Deloitte 2025 Human Capital Report highlights that despite AI ' s praise for boosting productivity and easing workloads, its effect on employees reveals significant hidden difficulties. 77 % of workers report an increase in workload due to AI, and 61 % worry it contributes to higher burnout rates. Although AI automates up to 45 % of routine tasks, employees are left with more complex and mentally demanding work, making their jobs harder rather than easier. Furthermore, 33 % of workers report reduced human interaction and collaboration because of AI, and 28 % feel a loss of personal connection. This indicates how AI can foster feelings of isolation and loneliness among workers.
Deloitte stresses that leaders, often focused on AI ' s efficiency gains, frequently overlook these unintended effects. If not addressed proactively, this oversight can erode trust and weaken the employee-employer relationship.
LEADING WITH BOTH HEART‐AND AI
Given the available study data, it ' s clear that leaders must strike a balance between AI utilization and humancentered leadership. Here are three straightforward approaches to achieve this:
1. UNDERSTAND THE TRADE-OFFS:
Effective leaders recognize that while AI can boost productivity, it also presents potential problems. Automation can increase workloads and lead to burnout, and over-reliance on AI for decision-making can diminish employees ' sense of control. Additionally, replacing human interaction with technology can foster isolation. Leaders must acknowledge these risks and respond with care and responsibility, prioritizing employees ' best interests. This involves intentionally creating an environment where people feel safe to voice concerns and know their well-being is valued. It means regularly checking in and creating space for genuine connection, rather than allowing a constant grind. When employees feel psychologically safe and heard, a sense of belonging flourishes, especially during periods of change introduced through AI.
2. COLLABORATE WITH
EMPLOYEESON AI ADOPTION: Instead of imposing AI on workers, organizations should involve them in decisions about how and when it ' s used. This collaborative approach leads to more effective and meaningful AI implementation, builds trust, and provides employees with a greater sense of control. When people help shape the tools they use, they develop a stronger sense of ownership and confidence in their work. They feel their input is valued and respected, which in turn strengthens their sense of belonging, as they feel included in significant decisions affecting their roles.
3. REINFORCE THE HUMAN CORE
OF WORK: As technology ' s use expands, the risk of loneliness and disconnection increases. Leaders should counter this by investing in human connection through mentorship and opportunities for collaboration on shared goals. This creates avenues for fostering genuine relationships, teamwork, and emotional support. A robust team is built not just on tools, but on trust, care, and a shared purpose.
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
In 2025, strong leadership means balancing the power of AI and technology with a deep commitment to people. While technology can drive progress, it must not come at the cost of well-being, connection or control. Humancentred leadership reminds us that when people come first, business benefits through stronger performance and better results. Generative AI is positioned as a tool to augment human skills, not replace them. Leveraging human creativity, empathy and contextual judgment to guide AI applications responsibly is key.
Leaders who involve employees, use AI thoughtfully and invest in building a sense of belonging will build teams that are not only more resilient but also ready to thrive – alongside technology.
AUGUST 2025 21 WORDS IN ACTION