
Leadership at Warp Speed: How to Drive Success in the Era of Agentic AI
As we enter a transformative era where agentic AI is revolutionizing industries and redefining productivity, leaders must adapt to the new landscape. According to ServiceNow CEO Bill McDermott, this means adopting a mindset that combines exponential thinking with decisive action.
McDermott emphasizes the importance of collaboration between humans and AI agents to create better outcomes for the global economy. This requires leaders to rethink their entire organizational structure and technology stack. By doing so, they can empower AI agents to perform mundane tasks, freeing up human employees to focus on creative, high-value work that drives innovation.
To succeed in this era, McDermott offers four leadership principles:
1. **Take care of customers above all else**: Prioritize the needs of your customers and be driven by their satisfaction. This ensures loyalty and encourages repeat business.
2. **Increase your drive during inflection points**: When faced with market shifts or technological advancements, it’s essential to maintain a high level of energy and motivation. This will help you stay ahead of the curve.
3. **Understand the details to dream bigger**: Don’t get bogged down in trivialities; instead, focus on how technology can be used to enhance your customers’ experiences and drive growth. Be bold enough to imagine what’s possible.
4. **Think exponentially**: Don’t just take linear steps – aim for exponential progress. This will allow you to stay ahead of the competition and adapt to rapid changes in the market.
In addition, McDermott stresses the importance of leading from the front lines. He emphasizes that effective leaders must be out on the floor with their team members, understanding their challenges and opportunities firsthand.
McDermott’s parting wisdom is stark: “This is a do-or-die moment for both individuals and companies to catch this lightning-fast AI revolution.” Those who fail to adapt will risk being left behind. The future belongs to those who are willing to reimagine their organizations, invest in innovation, and lead at warp speed.
In conclusion, the era of agentic AI demands decisive action from leaders. By embracing these principles, you can not only drive success but also thrive as the world continues to evolve.