🌴132. Can AI replace stakeholder engagement?

In today’s quick hit, I’m responding to a very interesting question I got from a friend-client on LinkedIn:“If AI can simulate different stakeholder perspectives, do we still need to engage them?”Here’s my take:Yes, use AI for speed, but not as a substitute for relationships.You can ask ChatGPT to pretend it’s your procurement manager and offer advice—but here’s what that misses...AI gives you logic, but influence lives in the grey.Stakeholder engagement isn’t just about getting facts or advice—it’s about pre-selling, building alignment, and navigating the real, messy dynamics of perception, politics, and respect.Bring people on the journey—don’t just show them the destination.A huge part of change leadership is making people feel involved. AI can’t do that. You still need to read the room, have the conversation, pick up on energy shifts and tone.📚 I also touch on the Benjamin Franklin Effect—that people are more likely to support you if you’ve asked them for something first. It’s a bit of psychology magic that AI can’t replicate.🤖 Where AI is useful?→ Roleplaying to surface objections→ Helping you prepare→ Sharpening your proposal→ Making admin easierBut buy-in? That’s still a human-to-human game.Thanks for tuning in today—and if this sparked any thoughts, I’d love to hear them!Chat tomorrow 👋Pre-order my new book WORK FAME and get featured on the Wall of Work FameSign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comLet's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: [email protected] you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.