- Many believe that AI will help average employees “shine” like superstars, but new research suggests the opposite: it is the superstars who benefit most from AI.
- Superstars are the first to learn and fully exploit new tools, from advanced Excel to data analysis systems, and they are also the group that grasps the potential of AI the fastest.
- Research indicates that individuals with deep expertise extract value from AI more effectively, knowing how to ask precise questions and spot errors in generative AI results.
- For example: an experienced consultant can use AI to analyze the market with complex questions and specific context, yielding much more accurate results than a general request.
- Superstars also work systematically and have good structural thinking—factors that help them utilize AI more effectively than average individuals.
- Furthermore, they are granted high autonomy by management, allowing for free experimentation with AI, while other employees typically wait for official guidelines.
- Their reputation makes it easy for them to receive credit, even when AI plays a large role in the results. Conversely, average employees are more likely to be suspected of “letting AI do the work,” diminishing the value of their contributions.
- The consequence is that the gap in productivity and career advancement opportunities will widen, increasing internal tension and jealousy.
- The author proposes 3 solutions: (1) create a safe AI experimentation space for everyone; (2) share effective tools, prompts, and workflows instead of keeping them secret; (3) conduct transparent and fair performance reviews for work involving AI assistance.
📌 Many believe that AI will help average employees “shine” like superstars, but new research suggests the opposite: it is the superstars who benefit most from AI. Superstars are the first to learn and fully exploit new tools. They are granted high autonomy by management, allowing for free experimentation with AI, while other employees typically wait for official guidelines. Their reputation makes it easy for them to receive credit, even when AI plays a large role in the results. Conversely, average employees are more likely to be suspected of “letting AI do the work,” increasing internal tension and jealousy. Without adjustment, AI will create a “two-tiered” workforce—where the top 10% of superstars capture the majority of opportunities and recognition, and the remaining 90% are left behind.
