Initiating AI integration
Within our global professional services firm, we decided to go all-in on artificial intelligence. As part of that investment, we identified “AI champions” from each country to make sure our AI investments paid off. It wasn’t a flashy move, but it was a smart one, and there were various methods we implemented to make sure it all worked.
For example, we have leveraged both small teams of innovators and reluctant users to create connections that helped speed up adoption and establish expectations for team success. From AI-driven training to in-person workshops, we have made sure everyone has the tools they need to keep learning and growing. Creating opportunities for teams from different departments to collaborate brought fresh perspectives and new ideas to the table, and allowed people to explore the tech in ways they may not have considered before. Sometimes, the best inspiration comes from outside, so we brought in external examples to challenge our thinking and spark new ideas.
These were our outcomes:
- We got everyone on the same page. AI is central to our current strategy for achieving our desired growth outcomes.
- The groundwork we laid behind the scenes helps keep us innovative, fresh, and creative. It helps us keep a competitive edge.
- While efficiency isn’t sexy, it’s a real sign of success. Streamlined processes mean more time and resources to focus on what truly matters.
Getting it done: The CSO perspective
The work of a CSO is all about building momentum by taking strategic ideas and turning them into something tangible. It’s the kind of work that keeps an organization moving and sets the stage for big wins.
Here’s how that plays out in practice:
- Build bridges, not silos. Carefully tend to your collaboration efforts. Create opportunities for teams to connect and share ideas, and break down barriers that can stop innovation and progress.
- Stay curious so you can stay creative. A big part of strategic leadership is never settling for the status quo. Keep asking questions, exploring new trends, and looking outside your own industry for inspiration.
- Champion the underestimated. Some of the best ideas come from unexpected places. Make a habit of seeking input from team members who might not always speak up and amplify their voices.
- Balance boldness with caution. Strategy is about knowing which risks are worth taking. Be bold when the data and instincts align, but don’t be afraid to pump the brakes when needed.
- Consider what’s next. It’s easy to get caught up in the now, but a good CSO always keeps the long game in mind. Make sure today’s decisions build a stronger foundation for tomorrow’s opportunities.
At its core, the role of a CSO is about bridging the gap between vision and reality. It’s about aligning people with strategy to achieve something big. By balancing curiosity with caution and building a culture that champions fresh ideas, a CSO helps create conditions where progress isn’t just a goal, it’s a consistent outcome.
This article was originally published in Fast Company.
Erin Fuller, Global Head of Association Solutions
