The use of AI is reshaping how businesses interact with customers and redefine the skills employees need for success. As revealed by a recent study, with 70% of jobs expected to alter their skills by 2030, businesses that embrace AI-driven tools will build a more capable workforce and achieve greater efficiency and innovation. At the heart of this transformation lies the idea that AI agents, the work of which is becoming increasingly important to executives and employees alike.
AI agents, such as generative and conversational AI, are transforming business practices. Among small and medium-sized companies, 51% report a revenue increase of 10% or more by leveraging AI. This success indicates a growing trend toward automation, intelligence, and collaboration within the retail and e-commerce sectors. However, a significant portion of companies—only 1% are considered “mature” in their AI adoption—represents a substantial market opportunity for businesses continuing to evolve. The journey to full-scale adoption isn’t just about technical capabilities but also about leadership change.
Leaders are increasingly facing a gap in full-scale AI adoption, according to McKinsey. Despite widespread use, only 1% of companies have achieved a mature state in their AI integration into decision-making processes. The disparity lies not in the technology itself but the lack of understanding among leadership. Employers are struggling to tap into the potential of AI agents because they view these tools as something to fear rather than invest in. However, it’s critical to differentiate between the warning signs of weak AI adoption and the lack of preparedness. Miles knows, as a CEO of a SaaS company, that AI agents are here to help but requires leadership from the top. They aren’t just a new tool but a whole new way of thinking about operations, collaboration, and innovation.
If leaders are still lagging in embracing AI agents, it’s falling on the C-suite to lead by example. Start by integrating AI agents as a constant partner in your initiatives, whether they work as writing coauthors, researchers, or decision-makers. AI agents can handle tasks like content generation, supply chain management, and testing, allowing you to focus more on strategic collaborations and innovation-driven ideas. For instance, when developing a business strategy like entering a new market, an AI agent can facilitate goal setting, research, and evaluation, helping you explore multiple pathways and mitigate risks more effectively.
Conversational agents, which use natural language processing, are becoming more popular as human-like responses. These agents can answer basic questions, suggest solutions, and improve customer experiences on platforms like Jotform. Apples and Microsoft are examples where users feel more comfortable relying on conversations—those who fear human interaction are often more willing to use AI tools. This shift is not just easier for users but more efficient for businesses, as it reduces repetitive tasks and increases focus. At Jotform, a.eval form generator, users achieve better results when AI agents consistently interact with their surveys.
To ensure AI adoption is aligned with business goals, leaders must shift the focus to “mature” agents. This isn’t just about adopting the latest technology but investing in the right tools, such as regular engagement with agents, to harness their potential. The world Economic Forum’s tip for halting disappointment: start small, showing employees how to use AI to simplify tasks and free time for creative problem-solving. Small successes can build confidence and drive change, ultimately benefiting everyone.
Overall, AI is a foundational pillar of transformation for businesses, enabling collaboration, innovation, and efficiency. By leading in this era and focusing on workforce development, leaders can position their firms to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
