We’re at a fork in the road for how companies adopt AI. Some are taking shortcuts, slashing entry-level roles and chasing efficiency savings. Others are slowing down to ask a harder question: how does this technology actually create new value? The data suggests that many companies are choosing the wrong path, using AI as a scapegoat for cost-cutting that is really caused by other business challenges. The consequences for their talent pipelines, skills development, and long-term competitiveness could be severe.

So what separates organisations that get AI right from those that don't, and what does this mean for talent acquisition?

My guest this week is Kelly Monahan, founder of Beyond the Desk. and a highly experienced labour economist who advises organisations on building genuine AI capability. In our conversation, she explains what most companies are getting wrong, the skills that actually matter, and the implications for talent acquisition.

In the interview, we discuss:

How are skills evolving?
Why AI is being used as a scapegoat
The real cost of cutting entry-level roles
Three skills that define AI readiness
Protecting high-value human touchpoints
Buy or build? Using technology strategically
AI for organizational value, not efficiency shortcuts
Data privacy and compliance risks
Developing the skills and mindset needed to future-proof your career
What does the future look like?

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Ep 777: Why AI Needs To Drive Value Not Efficiency