I have been hanging out in a lot of Generative AI (artificial intelligence) play spaces with people who are interested in and messing around with the tools. I noticed a compelling phenomenon – the rise of ‘secret cyborgs’ in workplaces. After Ethan Mollak introduced the concept through his article “Detecting the Secret Cyborg.”  These individuals aren’t entities in sci-fi stories but everyday professionals who are silently integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their work. They represent a grassroots movement, a quiet yet significant revolution in how we approach productivity, creativity, and problem-solving in our professional lives.

This trend is not just about individual exploration or silent revolution. It’s a crucial wake-up call for organizational leaders and businesses. There’s an immense opportunity here to transform the workplace narrative around AI. Instead of viewing AI with apprehension, businesses can adopt a culture that supports and encourages AI exploration. This shift can transform secretive individual experimentation into a collaborative, innovative movement that benefits the entire organization.

The ‘secret cyborgs’ among us are potential vanguards of a new era in the workforce, where the integration of human intelligence and AI leads to unprecedented levels of efficiency, creativity, and problem-solving. Their story is a call to action for all of us in business to embrace AI with curiosity and openness, recognizing its potential as a transformative tool for human advancement.

As we navigate this exciting and uncharted territory, the key lies in fostering a culture where AI is not just accepted but actively integrated into our collective quest for innovation and excellence. Let’s embrace this change, leveraging AI to enhance our human potential and pave the way for a future where technology and creativity go hand in hand in shaping the next frontier of business success.

If you are interested in tips for leaders, I co-wrote this piece with my friend Shannon Mullen O’Keefe of The Museum of Ideas called:

How to Let the Secret Cyborgs Out: 7 Ideas for Leaders