Technology is far outpacing our readiness to use it.

And yet, many voices are shouting about the latest shiny objects. Some businesses and entrepreneurs are trying to outpace competition while taking irresponsible measures to make it happen without fully understanding the consequences.

Communicators and industry leaders gathered at Embarc Collective in Tampa Bay for a groundbreaking session on integrating AI into their professional workflows.

The GenAI Readiness for Communicators Workshop provided attendees with hands-on experience, strategic insights, and personalized AI roadmaps to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in communication.

AI is transforming how we work and interact with each other, but here’s the problem, right now, many people are engaged in what I call ‘random acts of AI.’

This phrase describes how many of us approach AI tools right now. We dabble in them without a clear plan, we measure success only anecdotally, and sometimes, we think the right prompt alone will magically solve everything.

The good news is that there’s a better way. Our goal here is to move beyond these random acts of AI to a prepared and strategic approach.

I want you to have the tools and mindset to make AI a purposeful, measurable part of your communications strategy.

Data shows that while ESG (environmental, social, and governance) matters more now than ever in the age of AI, it can be a challenge to align values and messaging with the realities the technology brings. PR and comms teams have their work cut out for them when communicating around this topic.

For years, communicators have grappled with aligning their efforts to overarching business goals. Traditional tools often lack the clarity and efficiency to connect with bottom-line outcomes. If we get it right, AI can redefine how communication strategies drive business results. The challenge now is strategically adopting these tools, making them a seamless part of achieving organizational objectives. It's time to prepare and be strategic in embracing the future of communications.

My first year as a solo entrepreneur felt like making a parachute while falling. I was thrown out of the plane without warning. Always wondering what it was like to fly, I never expected to be unable to prepare for a proper takeoff. I found myself freefalling, not knowing how far I had to go before… well... the worst-case scenario.

It's time you use GenAI strategically to improve communication and foster a more connected, productive workforce. Close the gaps for your organization, paving the way for increased productivity, employee satisfaction, and retention.

While change can drive growth and innovation, it also brings uncertainty and anxiety. The way we communicate change can make all the difference between a smooth transition and a disruptive experience.

Here are essential principles of effective change communication and insights to guide your organization through times of transition with confidence and clarity.

Leadership must always communicate with compassion and empathy to activate people inside the business. People aren’t motivated when they don’t feel understood. Even an authentic attempt at understanding goes a long way.

Earning trust is complicated. The marketing or communications team is often saddled with creating content and forging customer experiences that foster relationships over time. What if there was a faster, more efficient way to establish customer trust?

An employee advocacy program increases engagement and drives brand messages and organizational trust beyond the reach of company-owned channels.

Here are a few ways to increase our organization’s visibility with little to no budget.

An employee advocacy program takes enthusiasm and persistence. Once it gains momentum, you will notice a huge difference in reach and engagement

A strong brand presence depends on all the pieces working together. It only takes two gears moving in the opposite direction to break the machine. Creating clear guidelines of what to do and what not to do is important to operational success. Policies ensure the company and its employees are on the same page.

Don’t wait to get hacked before you take these preventative measures.

Now is the best time for businesses to show they care about their communities, the lives of their employees and stakeholders, and the issues that impact us all.