AI's Double-Edged Sword: How women can take control - Part 2

As we discussed in Part 1, the rise of AI brings great challenges and opportunities for women. In the spirit of positivity, we will cover how women can proactively prepare for this shift and ensure they not only survive but thrive in the AI-driven future. And of course, as a Change Manager, let’s use some change theories and take the theoretical into practical.

So, How Women Can Prepare for AI?

We've established the urgency, now let's get practical. Here are some actionable steps women can take, drawing on proven change management models:

1. Lewin’s Change Model (Unfreeze – Change – Refreeze)

This is one of my favourite models and it provides a simple yet powerful framework for navigating personal change:

Unfreeze:

• Start to challenge and unravel old beliefs like “tech isn’t for me.” It's time to dismantle any preconceived ideas that AI is solely for the tech experts. As a consumer of society, you too belong here.

• Attend AI literacy events, join women-in-tech groups or just watch some YouTube videos to learn more.

• Tell your friends and family about it to build the support network for you.

Change:

• Upskill gradually, start with low-code/no-code tools or AI for productivity. Test it out for your work, but also to solve personal logistics. Don't feel overwhelmed, take breaks when you need it. Begin with accessible tools that can immediately improve your productivity.

• Volunteer to be part of AI initiatives within your company to gain hands-on experience. Keep an open mind, but also chip in your opinion when you can.

Refreeze:

• Build routines with AI, such as., weekly prompts, AI task delegation. Integrate AI into your daily work to make it a habit.

• Continue to talk with family, friends and peers about your journey, share you knowledge when you can and be open to feedback from others.

Change Tips with Business Psychology

The other side of the coin is as a Leader, how can you motivate your employees to change.

Let’s start with Self-Determination Theory by Deci & Ryan on how to motivate your team:

• Autonomy – Give your team the freedom on how and when to learn AI. Let them take control of their learning journey. Also communicate clearly your rationale for bringing AI into the organisation, and what role they play, so they can feel part of the journey.

• Competence – Allow your team time to learn, make mistakes, and most importantly to celebrate every small win. Acknowledge their progress and build confidence.

• Relatedness – Give the opportunity to learn socially such AI book clubs, AI upskilling networks and webinars. People learn best with others and remember best when they learn together.

  
  

If you're a leader, create space for AI learning without judgment, protect the Psychological Safety around AI and learning. Start by saying: “We’re all figuring this out together.” Do appreciate that learning is a process and that mistakes are part of the journey.

Ultimately, preparing for the AI-driven future requires a proactive and strategic approach. By embracing these change management principles and focusing on continuous learning, women can not only navigate the challenges but also seize the opportunities that AI presents.