Let’s talk clearly: when we talk about automation in companies, it is not just a fashion or a beautiful word in innovation speeches. We refer to the real implementation of technologies such as bots, artificial intelligence (AI) and platforms that automate operational tasks, workflows, administrative processes and even routine decisions. It is no longer something that “someday” will come: it’s here. And organizations that do not rise to this train strategically, are condemned to be left behind.
Automation is not the enemy. But if it is not understood and managed with intelligence, it can become a problem. The real challenge for leaders is not only to implement technology, but to make their teams see it as an ally, not as a threat. And for that, you need three things: clear vision, authentic leadership and a genuine approach to the development of talent.
Automate to automate in many organizations buy fashion systems without knowing what it is for, or being able to understand what is sought and above all have a strategic ally that adds and multiply with their expertise and many companies fall into the trap of adopting technology only because it is “what everyone is doing”, without having a clear strategy. The result: messy processes, confused equipment, high costs in time and money, and even irreparable risks.
Before launching an automation initiative, ask yourself seriously:
• What specific process am I improving and why?
• How does this translate into real value for my business and for my team?
• Is my people ready – really – to work with this technology?
• Am I accompanying the change or am I only launching instructions from above?
Leadership in the transformation: it is not about promoting change, but about guiding it
This is where the difference between a boss and a true leader shows. The boss imposes change and awaits obedience. The leader guides the change, gives context and makes his team go up to the ship because he wants, not because he has to do it.
How is a digital transformation correctly?
1. Explain the “for what”, not only the “what”: people need to understand the purpose behind each technology you introduce.
2. Invest in training: Automatize without preparing the team is how to release someone on a plane without having taken flight classes.
3. Listen, really: if there are doubts, resistance or fears, abódalos. Ignoring them will only grow them.
4. It encourages adaptability: it is not about having all the answers, but about building a culture that embraces constant learning.
The narrative that “automation comes to take jobs” is poorly focused. When used intelligently, automation does not eliminate talent, eliminates friction. Remove repetitive, tedious or value tasks, and release time for what really matters: think, create, decide, connect.
Companies that understand this not only survive, but become referents. Because technology does not replace people. But people who know how to use technology are going to replace – unveiled – who do not understand it.
And you, are you going to wait or will you lead?
Automation is not an option, it is a reality. The difference is how you face it: with fear or vision. The companies that are marking the pattern today are not the ones that have more technology, but those that have leaders capable of integrating it with intelligence, empathy and purpose.
Because in the end, it is not just about transforming processes, but about transforming mentalities. And that transformation begins with you.
It’s not about running behind technology. It’s about putting yourself in front, guiding your team and demonstrating that true power is not in the software … but in people who know how to use it with strategy.
Master the automation. Or let someone else do it for you.
The author is director and founder of ENTI. Entrepreneurial architect and expert at AI.
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