From Hype to Reality: What We Learned About AI at the HR Leadership Forum

Last week, we gathered with our HRLF community for a thought-provoking session hosted by The Quality Coach®. Our guest speaker, Dr. Johnathan Mell, took us on a fascinating deep dive into a topic that’s on everyone’s radar: artificial intelligence and its role in the future of work.

Dr. Mell’s presentation, “From Hype to Reality,” didn’t just skim the surface. It challenged us to think differently about what AI can—and can’t—do for our workplaces. And spoiler alert: the robots aren’t coming for your job (at least, not anytime soon).

“AI Isn’t Automation. It’s Augmentation.”

That was one of Dr. Mell’s biggest takeaways. AI isn’t here to replace us—it’s here to support us. When used thoughtfully, AI tools can enhance what we already do well: connect with people, solve problems, and make informed decisions.

Making Sense of All the AI Buzz

Dr. Mell helped us cut through the noise by breaking AI down into four big categories:

  • Generative (like ChatGPT): These AIs create stuff—text, images, even videos.

  • Classificatory: These are the sorting machines, great for organizing data or recognizing patterns (think resume screeners).

  • Reactive/Cooperative: These respond and interact—perfect for training tools or virtual assistants.

  • Competitive: These are used in complex situations like negotiations or high-stakes decision-making.

He also made a surprising point: sometimes AI “lies”… and sometimes, that’s actually by design. (For example, an AI might withhold information to gently encourage someone or to avoid giving unverified answers.)

Real Tools, Real Talk

Dr Mell had the HRLF participants work together in groups to develop daily tasks which he then fed into an AI tool offering a live demonstration of how AI actually can work in our daily lives.

He also gave us some straight talk on using AI in our daily work. Here's a quick list of what to do (and what not to do):

  • DO use AI to brainstorm ideas, draft outlines, or review your writing.

  • DON’T use it to handle private data or sensitive employee issues.

  • DO explore how it can save time and bring fresh perspectives.

  • DON’T rely on it for facts you can’t verify or for tasks that need a human touch.

So, What Does This Mean for HR?

As AI becomes more common in our workplaces, HR professionals will need to adapt. Dr. Mell encouraged us to:

  • Start small—try AI in a low-risk area like creating FAQs or summarizing meetings.

  • Stay human—people skills are still our superpower.

  • Upskill—new tools mean new roles and responsibilities.

  • Keep asking questions—just because we can use AI doesn’t always mean we should.

Wrapping It Up

Dr. Mell reminded us that understanding AI isn’t just a tech thing—it’s a people thing. When we take time to explore these tools with curiosity and care, we can use them to support better work, stronger teams, and smarter decisions.

Thanks again to everyone who joined us. We left feeling energized, inspired, and maybe even a little more AI-savvy.

Guest User