The future of leadership (as to ChatGPT)

I recently asked ChatGPT to write a blog post about the future of leadership. The answer was surprisingly insightful.

”The future of leadership is a topic that has garnered a lot of attention in recent years, as businesses, organizations, and society as a whole continue to evolve and adapt to new challenges and opportunities. In this blog post, we will explore some of the key trends and developments that are shaping the future of leadership, and consider how leaders can stay ahead of the curve and position themselves for success in the years ahead.

One key trend that is likely to shape the future of leadership is the increasing importance of digital skills and capabilities. As technology continues to advance and become more deeply integrated into every aspect of our lives, leaders who are able to navigate and leverage these technologies will be well positioned to succeed. This means that leaders will need to have a strong understanding of topics like data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, as well as the ability to use these technologies to drive business outcomes and create value for their organizations.

Another trend that is likely to shape the future of leadership is the growing importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As the world becomes more interconnected and diverse, leaders who are able to create inclusive and diverse environments will be better equipped to navigate and succeed in this complex and rapidly changing landscape. This will require a deep understanding of DEI issues and an ability to create and foster a culture of inclusivity and belonging within their organizations.

In addition to these trends, the future of leadership is likely to be influenced by a number of other factors, such as the ongoing shift towards remote and flexible work, the growing importance of sustainability and corporate social responsibility, and the increasing importance of soft skills like emotional intelligence and communication.

As we look to the future of leadership, it is clear that the landscape is changing rapidly, and that leaders who are able to adapt and stay ahead of the curve will be best positioned to succeed. Whether you are a current leader or aspiring to become one, it is important to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the field, and to continually develop your skills and capabilities in order to stay competitive. With the right mindset and approach, you can position yourself for success in the years ahead, and help to shape the future of leadership for the better.”

I then asked what key competences that the future of leadership will demand. The answer was again quick and to the point.

”In the future, leadership is expected to demand a variety of key competences including:

• Emotional intelligence and the ability to effectively manage and communicate with a diverse workforce.
• Adaptability and flexibility in the face of rapidly changing technology and industry trends.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• The ability to lead and inspire teams in a remote or virtual work environment.
• Cultural competence and the ability to navigate and lead in a globalized business environment.
• A strong understanding of digital technologies and their potential impact on business.
• Strong ethics and values to ensure responsible and sustainable decision-making.
• Continuous learning and the ability to stay current with industry developments.”

I then moved on to ask how increased levels of consciousness might support the future of leadership. The answer was again quick and to the point.

”Increased levels of consciousness can support the future of leadership by allowing leaders to:

1. Develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their own biases, which can lead to more effective communication, decision-making, and relationship-building.
2. Enhance empathy, compassion and emotional intelligence, which can lead to better team management and communication.
3. Develop a greater awareness of the impact of their decisions on stakeholders, which can lead to more ethical and responsible decision-making.
4. Develop a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of systems and the impact of their decisions on the environment and society, which can lead to more sustainable decision-making.
5. Develop a greater ability to see the big picture, which can lead to more strategic decision-making.
6. Encourage more open-mindedness, creativity and innovation, which can lead to better problem-solving and more effective leadership.
7. Encourage a more holistic approach, which can lead to more effective leadership by taking into account various aspects of the organization, people, and the environment in decision making.

Overall, an increased level of consciousness in leaders can help them to be more self-aware, empathetic, ethical, and strategic in their decision-making and leadership style, which can benefit the organization and society as a whole.”

The future of leadership is indeed an important topic. And, it may not only need to be supported by increased consciousness, but also by AI.

What’s your perspective?

Elisabet Lagerstedt

Elisabet Lagerstedt is the founder and director of Future Navigators. As a trusted advisor, consultant, and Executive Coach, she helps business leaders navigate beyond business as usual to build Better Business and co-create a better future - through insight, strategy, innovation, and transformation. Elisabet is also the author of Better Business, Better Future (2022) and Navigera in i Framtiden (2018).