As a communications coach, I’m fascinated by the role AI can play in helping us communicate more effectively. It’s a fantastic tool. AI can generate ideas, reword our messages, and fine-tune what we plan to say. It can make the message we’re sending more direct, diplomatic, clear, softer, stronger, or whatever tone we ask it to adopt. It’s great, and I love it.
But as useful as AI is, communication remains a deeply human, nuanced, and complex process. We are still human and that’s our greatest advantage. AI can’t sit in the room and deliver words in a way that builds real, meaningful connections. The relationships we cultivate, or fail to cultivate, are what ultimately shape the quality of our lives.
The Human Element in Communication
Relationships, especially in the workplace, are built over time through how we interact with one another. While some of those interactions may occur in written form, where AI can provide valuable support, most of our communication happens in real-time. And the quality of those moments depends on how we show up in the moment.
Think of a typical interaction you have : someone asks you a question, seeks your help, or delivers tough news. How do you respond in that split second?
In real time, we listen, process, and interpret meaning, tone, and emotion. These inputs trigger our own thoughts, feelings, and physical reactions. Then, in a very short window, we decide how to respond—ideally in a way that conveys our intended message. It’s not always perfect, but its these human responses that strengthen relationships.
AI can help prepare the words, but it can’t replace the way we respond in the moment. And those moments are about far more than words.
AI can help prepare the words, but important moments are about far more than words.
Yes, at times, our humanness can also damage relationships and that is where we can work to ensure we are being the best human we can be.
Way of Being: The Foundation of Human Interaction
Our “way of being” refers to how we show up in the moment—grounded, calm, and present, or anxious and unsettled. This internal state profoundly impacts our ability to communicate and connect with others.
We’re all human, and our responses are often driven by habits or impulses that may not always serve us. But the beauty of being human is that we can grow. We can adapt our way of being without losing authenticity.
The key to this growth isn’t found in AI but in building self-awareness. You don’t need to become a perfect version of yourself, but by becoming more aware of how you show up, you open the door to meaningful change. It starts with looking inward—tuning in to what’s happening within you. Here are three places to start:
- Notice Your Inner Chatter
Is your mind elsewhere? Are you worrying, making plans, or doubting yourself (or others)? This mental noise can make it difficult to respond effectively in the moment. - Notice Your Mood
Are strong emotions or background moods clouding your interactions? Even unrelated feelings can make it harder to process messages and respond constructively. - Notice Your Body Posture
Your posture not only influences how others perceive you but also affects how you feel about yourself. If your posture doesn’t support confidence, it can hinder your ability to communicate confidently.
The Balance Between AI and Being Human
As powerful as AI is for helping us communicate well, it doesn’t replace the need to develop ourselves as humans. By building our own self-awareness and refining our way of being, we can stay present and authentic in our interactions and build stronger relationships – and that is what makes communication human.
