Sign in Subscribe
3 min read Articles

What Is AI (and Why It Matters)

Learn what AI is, why it’s important for your role and business, and the key rules for using it safely.
What Is AI (and Why It Matters)
Photo by Steve Johnson / Unsplash

Understanding the Basics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the ability of machines to mimic human intelligence - like learning from data, recognizing patterns, or making decisions.
It’s not magic. It’s not only for developers. And it’s not here to take over the world.

Why It’s Relevant Right Now

AI is no longer a future concept - it’s already here and evolving quickly.
Businesses, competitors, and even your customers are already using it.

Used well, AI can:

  • Take the boring, repetitive parts out of your day
  • Help you make faster, smarter decisions
  • Unlock new value in your work and personal life

Why You Should Care About AI

Whether you're running a team, supporting customers, or just trying to get through your to-do list, AI has something to offer.

If You Work at a Company

AI can make the day-to-day smoother. For example:

  • Automate quoting, billing, and provisioning to save time
  • Prioritize support tickets and respond more effectively
  • Spot patterns in customer data that help you make better decisions

It's not about replacing people. It's about removing friction so your team can focus on what actually matters.

If You're Just Trying to Do Your Job Better

AI isn't just for execs or engineers. If you work, it's relevant.

  • It helps you stay sharp and ahead in your role
  • It takes the repetitive tasks off your plate so you can focus on meaningful work
  • It’s worth learning because AI may not take your job, but someone who uses it well could

Using AI Responsibly: Why Security Matters

AI can help you work faster and smarter, but only if you use it safely. A small mistake, like sharing sensitive information in a chatbot, can quickly turn into a big problem. Here’s how to stay smart about security when using AI.

Configure Your AI Settings for Maximum Privacy

If you are using AI tools for sensitive or internal work, one of the most important things you can do is adjust the platform’s settings to protect your data.

Many AI platforms, like ChatGPT or other third-party tools, give you the option to disable data sharing and model training. This means the AI will not store your prompts or use your data to improve future models.

Taking a few minutes to set this up can make a huge difference in keeping your information safe.

Here is what to do:

  • Look for "Data Controls" or "Privacy Settings" inside the AI platform you are using.
  • Turn off options like "Allow your data to be used for training" or anything that mentions improving models based on your inputs.
  • Check if there is a "Private Mode" or a way to use the tool without storing conversations.

Why this matters:
Even if you trust the tool, if training is enabled, there is a risk that your internal data could become part of future outputs or be accessed by others. Disabling training keeps your sensitive information protected.

Real-world example:
If you upload internal policies, customer case notes, or technical documents into an AI tool that has training turned on, those files could accidentally help shape the AI’s public answers for someone else in the future.

Safe Use Guidelines

AI is powerful, but it is only as safe as the way you set it up and use it. Before you dive in, make sure you are covering the basics.

  • Set up your AI tool for privacy first
    Before using AI for sensitive work, check the settings. Disable any options that allow your data to be used for training or shared. If you cannot configure privacy properly, treat that tool as public.
  • Use common sense when sharing information
    If you have disabled data sharing and are using a trusted platform, you can work with sensitive content. If you are unsure, play it safe and avoid putting anything critical into the AI.
  • Always review AI-generated results before using them
    AI is great at sounding confident, even when it is wrong. Always double-check the outputs before using them in customer communication, internal documents, or decision-making.
  • Understand the limits of each tool
    Every AI platform handles your data differently. Some offer private workspaces. Some do not. Know how the tool treats your information before trusting it with important tasks.

You might also like...

13
Aug
When a Team Member Said They Were Leaving Because of Me

When a Team Member Said They Were Leaving Because of Me

A team member once told me they were leaving because of me. That conversation completely changed how I lead.
2 min read
10
Aug
The One Operational Lesson I’d Teach My Younger Self

The One Operational Lesson I’d Teach My Younger Self

I thought chaos proved I was doing important work. Years later, I learned the opposite and it changed how I lead.
2 min read
02
Jul
5 Signs Your Business Has an Operational Clarity Problem

5 Signs Your Business Has an Operational Clarity Problem

When operations feel messy, it’s often a clarity problem. This post covers five signs your team might be misaligned and how to spot the constraint before it causes bigger issues.
3 min read
26
Jun
Leading AI Experiments? Tailor Your Approach With Adaptive Leadership

Leading AI Experiments? Tailor Your Approach With Adaptive Leadership

Successful AI adoption isn’t just about tools - it’s about adapting your leadership style to meet your team where they are.
3 min read
19
Jun
AI in Operations: A Practical Guide for Getting Started

AI in Operations: A Practical Guide for Getting Started

A no-nonsense guide for operations leaders who want to cut through the AI hype and start using these tools for real work, based on actual experience rather than theory.
4 min read