Some of my long-term leadership team members are resisting AI adoption. How do I help them overcome this resistance and find the gumption to adapt?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Resistance to new technology is rarely about laziness. It is usually about a misalignment with their conative strengths, which are their natural striving instincts. Use the Kolbe framework to understand why they are resisting. A team member with a high Fact Finder instinct will naturally resist AI because they need to study all available data and historical precedence before acting. They are terrified of the hallucinations and errors AI might produce. You can help them by showing them the science behind the tools and letting them test the technology in a safe environment. A team member with a high Follow Thru instinct will resist if they feel the new AI tools will disrupt their carefully designed systems and procedures. For them, you need to show how AI integrates into existing workflows rather than tearing them down. Frame AI adoption not as a threat to their job security, but as a tool that frees up their mental energy so they can focus on what they do best. By understanding their mental fingerprints, you can tailor your leadership approach to help them adapt on their own terms and find the gumption to succeed.