Artificial intelligence may be transforming the workplace at record speed, but according to leadership and communication specialists, the organisations that will thrive in the years to come won’t necessarily be the ones using the most advanced AI tools, but the ones that learn how to balance technology with a stronger human connection.
From drafting emails and summarising meetings to streamlining workflows and boosting productivity, AI is the newest team member of the modern workplace. But as businesses embrace efficiency, experts are warning there may be an unintended consequence: weaker workplace relationships.
Research referenced by The Human Edge global partners, Crucial Conversations, and Crucial Learning recently found that one in four employees reported decreased trust in colleagues’ competence, integrity, and work ethic since AI entered the workplace, while one in five said they now reach out to coworkers less often to discuss challenges.
According to Heléne Vermaak, director at The Human Edge, the rise of AI has created a new challenge for leaders: ensuring technology improves collaboration rather than eroding it.
“The conversation around AI has largely focused on productivity and efficiency, but organisations also need to ask what happens to trust, communication, and collaboration when people increasingly work through technology instead of with each other.”
“AI can absolutely improve speed and output, but businesses can’t afford to lose the human dynamics that drive innovation, accountability, and resilience. The strongest teams will be the ones that use AI to enhance human capability, not replace human connection.”
The rise of the ‘AI teammate’
A few years ago, teamwork was largely defined by people brainstorming together, debating ideas, solving problems collaboratively, and building relationships through everyday interactions.
Today, AI has joined the table. According to Crucial Learning insights, the traditional equation of ‘people + people = results’ has evolved into a new workplace reality: ‘people + people + AI = results.’
While AI can accelerate repetitive or administrative tasks, experts caution that over-reliance on technology may reduce the informal moments that build workplace trust and cohesion.
These seemingly small interactions, quick check-ins, side conversations, and spontaneous collaboration are what strengthen relationships, improve communication, and foster innovation within teams.
“There’s a risk that organisations become so focused on efficiency they unintentionally remove the very conversations that build strong teams,” explains Vermaak.
“Some of the most valuable workplace interactions happen informally. A quick discussion after a meeting, asking a colleague for advice, or debating different perspectives often leads to better thinking and stronger relationships. AI should support those interactions, not replace them.”
Four ways leaders can strengthen teams in the AI era
As AI adoption accelerates, leadership experts say organisations should actively safeguard the ‘people + people’ side of the equation.
- Use AI for preparation, not collaboration – AI works well for summarising information, outlining ideas, or handling repetitive groundwork. However, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and innovation still benefit from human discussion and debate.
- Protect informal interaction – Quick conversations, team check-ins, and collaborative discussions help build trust and alignment. Leaders should intentionally create space for these interactions instead of allowing communication to become entirely task driven.
- Encourage collaborative review of AI outputs – Rather than individuals working in isolation with AI tools, teams can review and refine AI-generated work together. This improves accountability while also strengthening communication and critical thinking.
- Build relationship intelligence – Understanding how colleagues communicate, respond to pressure, and approach conflict can improve teamwork significantly. High-performing teams are often built on self-awareness, empathy, and constructive communication, not simply technical expertise.
Leadership in the AI era
Experts also advise against viewing AI as a replacement for leadership capability. While technology can improve operational efficiency, it cannot replicate emotional intelligence, trust-building, or effective communication, all critical components of a healthy workplace culture.
“Technology can enhance productivity, but leadership is still fundamentally human,” says Vermaak.
“The organisations that will adapt best to AI are the ones where leaders continue investing in communication, trust, and meaningful connection. Those human skills are becoming more valuable, not less.”
Ultimately, while AI may be changing how work gets done, experts believe the future of successful organisations will still depend on one thing: people working well together.