FOMO? FOBO? FOBI !

Organizations around the world are looking at artificial intelligence and scrambling to change their products and services so they can brag that they are using this technology, even if they don’t fully understand it and its uses. They are focused on their fear of missing out, aka FOMO.

At the same time, employees are experiencing a different fear, that AI will take their job. They are focused on the fear of becoming obsolete, aka FOBO.

Might I suggest an even more important fear, the fear of becoming irrelevant, FOBI. Your relevancy to your organization is determined by several factors that demonstrate your value, contribution, and alignment with the organization’s goals and needs.

Some key determinants of your relevancy to your organization.

Skills, Knowledge, and Expertise: Having the right skills and staying updated with industry trends and advancements ensures that you can contribute effectively to your organization’s operations and objectives.

Performance and Results: The ability to deliver high-quality work, meet targets, and achieve measurable results demonstrates relevancy. People who consistently perform well and make a positive impact on the organization’s success are likely to be considered relevant to their organization.

Adaptability and Learning Agility: The capacity to adapt to changing circumstances, learn new skills, and embrace new technologies and ways of working is valuable. In today’s dynamic environment, people who can quickly adapt and acquire needed competencies remain relevant and valuable assets.

Alignment with Organization Values and Culture: Relevancy is enhanced when a person aligns with the organization’s values, mission, and culture. When people share and embody the organization’s core principles, they are more likely to contribute positively to the organization’s goals and maintain their relevancy.

Collaboration and Teamwork: The ability to work well with others, collaborate effectively, and contribute to a positive work environment is fundamental. People who can build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and support their colleagues enhance their relevancy within the organization.

Leadership and Influence: Relevancy is also tied to the capacity to influence others positively. People who can inspire and motivate their peers, drive change, and lead by example contribute to the overall success of the organization and are seen as relevant leaders.

Continuous Learning and Development: Organizations value people who invest in their personal and professional growth. Individuals who actively pursue learning opportunities, seek feedback, and develop new skills demonstrate a commitment to self-improvement and remain relevant to their organization’s evolving needs.

Problem-Solving and Creativity: The ability to solve problems, think critically, and offer innovative solutions is highly relevant in today’s dynamic environment. People who can identify and address challenges creatively and contribute to process improvements add value to their organization.

Communication: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are crucial for relevancy. People who articulate ideas clearly, influence stakeholders, and build effective relationships internally and externally are valuable contributors to their organization’s success.

It’s so much more than learning about AI

Sure, go ahead and take that “AI 101” workshop. But please note that relevancy is not a static state, and people need to continuously evaluate and adapt their skills, behaviors, and contributions to remain relevant to their organization’s evolving needs.

Look at the big picture and address the important fear of becoming irrelevant.