Harnessing the Power of AI

WATCH: Lynda Foster Presents Harnessing the Power of AI

Unlocking the Black Box: How AI Empowers Leaders and Professionals to Access Transformative Skills

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, leaders and professionals face a growing skills gap as technology and data reshape industries. Traditionally, large organizations have had exclusive access to specialized knowledge and tools, but recent advancements in artificial intelligence are leveling the playing field. What was once a “black box” of complex skills—reserved for data scientists, automation experts, and strategists—is now within reach for leaders who are committed to driving growth, enhancing credibility, and making data-informed decisions.

The “Black Box” Challenge: Skills Once Locked Away

For years, complex fields like data analytics, workflow automation, and advanced customer personalization were largely inaccessible to those without technical expertise or significant budgets. As McKinsey notes, “businesses that leverage data and analytics to inform decisions are 23 times more likely to acquire customers and 19 times more likely to be profitable.” Yet, many leaders found these resources out of reach. AI is now bridging this gap, making it possible for firms to access the tools and insights that were previously hidden in this metaphorical “black box.”

AI as a Gateway to Competitive Skills

Here are three key areas where AI is enabling leaders and their teams to operate with the sophistication, efficiency, and personalization needed to compete more effectively in the marketplace:

1. Data Literacy and AnalyticsData-driven decision-making is critical to success in any industry. Most leaders have access to valuable information but may lack the ability to interpret and leverage it fully. AI-powered tools, like ChatGPT and Google Analytics’ AI-driven insights, make data more accessible and actionable than ever. According to a report by Accenture, “95% of executives see a gap between the importance of data and the ability to leverage it effectively.” With AI, leaders can bridge this gap, transforming data into insights that support strategic growth without needing a full data science team.

2. Workflow Automation and Process OptimizationTime is a limited resource for any leader, and automating repetitive tasks can be transformative. Workflow automation tools, such as Zapier and Integromat, have become essential in streamlining operations. McKinsey research highlights that automation has the potential to increase global productivity growth by 0.8 to 1.4 percent annually. For firms aiming to achieve greater efficiency, automation reduces time spent on administrative tasks and increases time for strategic, high-impact activities that contribute directly to organizational goals.

3. Customer PersonalizationAI-driven customer relationship management (CRM) systems are allowing leaders to deliver customized client experiences that drive satisfaction and loyalty. A Salesforce study found that “84% of customers say being treated like a person, not a number, is very important to winning their business.” AI makes it possible to deliver this kind of personalization at scale, creating stronger customer relationships and improving retention.

Why Money is No Longer the Primary Barrier

There’s a common misconception that capital is the main determinant of an organization’s ability to innovate. However, access to funding often masks deeper operational challenges. According to Harvard Business Review, only “25% of firms cite funding as their primary obstacle.” Today, resourcefulness and adaptability—especially in leveraging tools like AI—are far more critical for success. Competitive advantage is no longer about outspending competitors but about outthinking and optimizing with the right tools.

Examples from Cortex Leadership Consulting

At Cortex Leadership Consulting, we’ve seen firsthand how AI accelerates growth and operational efficiency:

• Data-Informed Coaching: Using tools like goMonti, we collect real-time feedback from clients and turn this data into monthly coaching guides tailored to individual goals.

• Big Data for Growth Insights: Over the past decade, we’ve accumulated an extensive dataset on client progress. AI now helps us analyze this data, uncovering insights that inform strategic recommendations, leading to faster, measurable results for clients.

• Automated Workflows: By automating onboarding and administrative processes, our team can focus on high-value client interactions, significantly increasing both our impact and profitability.

The Future: Embracing AI as a Strategic Partner

AI isn’t about replacing skilled professionals; it’s about amplifying their capabilities. As McKinsey emphasizes, “the adoption of AI across industries will significantly enhance productivity but requires businesses to build capabilities and talent to harness it fully.” Leaders who view AI as a partner in innovation can unlock efficiencies that enable them to stay competitive, agile, and forward-thinking in a dynamic market.

Takeaways for Leaders

1. Identify Skills AI Can Support: Determine which essential skills—such as data literacy, workflow efficiency, or customer engagement—AI can help build or enhance within your organization.

2. Start Small, Automate Gradually: Begin with simple automations that save time and enhance productivity, then expand workflows as you see benefits.

3. Focus on Personalization: Use AI to deepen customer relationships by creating tailored experiences that address their specific needs and preferences.

With the black box of specialized knowledge now transparent, leaders have an unprecedented opportunity to scale their capabilities, boost efficiencies, and drive profitability. The question isn’t whether AI can help—it’s how soon you’ll start unlocking its potential.

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This custom designed short AI Resource Pack from a recent  breakout experience of more than 200 attendees that the Cortex Team, lead by Lynda Foster, created for the 2024 Virginia Women's Conference held in Roanoke, Virginia in November, 2024.

This guide provides the top take-a-ways from the conference, a sheet of links to popular apps to improve productivity and increase standards of deliverables for leaders and their teams, a Do's and Don'ts sheet to keep in mind about AI, and a recent article authored by Lynda McNutt Foster, CEO, of Cortex Leadership Consulting.