AI tools assist managers in rehearsing difficult workplace conversations

AI for Managerial Preparation

New AI coaching tools are being introduced to assist managers in preparing for challenging workplace discussions. These conversations include delivering negative performance feedback, discussing salary expectations, or announcing job eliminations. The tools aim to help managers refine their approach before these interactions occur.

Addressing Managerial Challenges

A survey by The Predictive Index, which offers an AI chatbot named Obi for role-playing, found a disconnect in confidence levels. While 74% of CEOs and business leaders believe their managers are very confident in handling tough people conversations, 42% of managers report knowing what to say but struggling with how to say it. Only 20% of managers prefer to prepare for such conversations without external support.

Key Areas for Improvement

The survey identified common blind spots for managers, including delivering constructive criticism, anticipating employee reactions, and maintaining objectivity. Emily DeJeu, a professor of business communication at Carnegie Mellon University, emphasized that spontaneity is not desirable in high-stakes work conversations, highlighting the importance of thoughtful preparation.

Functionality of AI Tools

Available AI tools vary, with some offering text-only interactions and others providing voice-enabled features. Some tools can integrate employee data like personality profiles for more tailored preparation, while others are more generic. The primary goal of these tools is to provide feedback on a manager's tone, delivery, and message, allowing them to practice and simulate how an employee might react in different scenarios, offering a more effective preparation method than self-rehearsal.