Why I’m still incredibly encouraged with the rise of AI and the next generation of the workforce…
This post came out of a conversation with my 20-year-old son. We were talking about using AI role-play tools to rehearse for presentations, performance reviews, job interviews, and sales calls. And what he said inspired me:
“AI may help with the preparation, but it can’t do the hard part, simulate and manage the nerves you’ll feel in the moment.”
I may be doubly biased, but he’s right.
They see the value of AI for generating ideas and rehearsing. But they also recognize something essential: it’s still the human who has to communicate in a way that inspires action and instills confidence.
When all eyes are on you, you have to control the moment. That’s a skill you build, not download.
The pitch. The interview. The update.
These moments aren’t won by content alone. They’re won by your presence, poise, and your ability to manage the dynamics in the room.
There’s no technology that replicates the tension or emotional complexity of a room. No app can prepare you for real-time cues or help you manage your nervous system when all eyes are on you and your message is on the line.
What might be getting in your way?
You prepare. You practice. Maybe you even use AI to role play anticipated tough questions. But when you’re in the moment, your body sends signals:
Your voice wavers
Your eyes lack connection
Your gestures misalign with your message
Your mouth goes dry
You forget the key point
You feel like you’re watching from above
These aren’t knowledge gaps. They’re presence gaps. And AI can’t fill them.
These signals create disconnect between your content and delivery. Unless we train for this, ideas won’t land favourably.
The science backs this up:
A 2023 study in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes found that speakers who managed body language and voice under pressure were rated as more credible, even with identical content.
A Harvard Business Review study showed that candidates using breath work and grounding techniques were more likely to be hired.
Let’s be clear: AI is a powerful prep tool.
It can help you:
Conduct targeted research
Structure strong narratives
Brainstorm supporting points
Practice delivery and receive feedback on tone, pace, clarity, talk time, etc.
But it can’t manage adrenaline or read the room.
Tools to help you manage the nerves:
4-4-6 breathing: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 6. Repeat 5 times. It grounds you and steadies your voice.
Own your stance: Grounded posture supports grounded presence.
Empowering language: Say “I’m excited to share this” instead of “I’m nervous.” That shift matters.
Visualize success: Imagine yourself delivering with clarity and confidence.
See your audience as allies: Shift from “They’re judging me” to “They’ll want to hear what I have to say.”
How do you know it’s time for a high-impact coach?
You avoid visibility
Your delivery doesn’t match your prep
Your ideas aren’t gaining traction
You’re not closing or building credibility
You’re overlooked in interviews
You leave conversations feeling unheard
How coaching helps:
A high-impact coach helps you move beyond prep into real presence.
Together, we:
Bridge the gap between what you know and how you come across
Train your system to stay grounded under pressure
Teach you to read the room and adjust with confidence
So let me ask you this:
What’s one high-pressure moment coming up that you want to walk into with more confidence, clarity, and calm?
If this post landed for you ⏩ Forward to support others.
Because AI can prep your content, but only you can land the moment.
Let’s get you ready for it.