Several of our long-tenured employees are quietly resisting our new AI-driven workflows. How do we use their Kolbe profiles to diagnose whether they are struggling with a conative mismatch or just need better training?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When valuable team members resist new technology, it is easy to assume they are simply stubborn or disengaged. However, resistance is often a natural reaction to conative stress. By looking at their Kolbe A Index results, you can understand how they instinctively process change and adjust your implementation strategy accordingly.

For employees with a high Fact Finder drive, resistance usually stems from a lack of information. They need to understand the logic behind the AI tool, where the data comes from, and why this specific system was chosen. If you try to force them to use a tool without explaining the background, they will resist. Give them time to research and ask questions.

For those with a high Follow Thru drive, the resistance is about disrupted systems. These individuals thrive on structure and order. Introducing a flexible AI tool that updates its interface or changes its output format can feel chaotic to them. You can ease their stress by building rigid, step-by-step SOPs around the tool so they know exactly how it fits into their daily routine.

Use this conative insight during your coaching conversations. If their resistance is a conative mismatch, adjust how you present the technology. If they have the information and structure they need but still refuse to adapt, then you have a GWC™ issue that needs to be solved.