I studied 400 highly successful leaders—5 skills you need to sharpen in the age of AI: Stanford expert
The rapid advancement of AI is reshaping industries, redefining job roles, and making adaptability more critical than ever. The question isn’t whether it will impact your career, but how you can prepare yourself to thrive in this evolving landscape.
As a lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business and the author of “The Systems Leader,” I’ve spent 23 years studying how professionals can navigate disruptive changes. Resilience in the AI era requires a combination of continuous learning, adaptability and relationship-building.
After studying over 400 leaders from around the world, here are the five best habits I’ve seen for future success:
a class on AI or connect with colleagues who are in different stages of their careers, especially younger folks who are immersed in technology.
influence map of their ecosystem, and look for where key constituents both influence others, and are also dependent upon others. This can help visualize very complex dynamics in their ecosystem.
Robert E. Siegel is a Lecturer in Management at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a venture investor. He has led research and written cases on several large companies, including Google, Charles Schwab, Stripe, and Target. Robert is also the author of “The Systems Leader: Mastering the Cross-Pressures that Make or Break Today’s Companies.”
Are you ready to buy a house? Take Smarter by CNBC Make It’s new online course How to Buy Your First Home. Expert instructors will help you weigh the cost of renting vs. buying, financially prepare, and confidently navigate every step of the process—from mortgage basics to closing the deal. Sign up today and use coupon code EARLYBIRD for an introductory discount of 30% off $97 (+taxes and fees) through July 15, 2025.
Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It’s newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life, and request to join our exclusive community on LinkedIn to connect with experts and peers.
