Author: Michael Schiano

We help businesses grow customers and drive repeat revenue each month. In addition, we offer Worldwide Contact Center consulting and management providing assessment, planning, and implementation services to optimize mission-critical resources – people, process, and technology. Artificial Intelligence expertise helping with planning, selection and implementation to drive greater efficiency.  Strategic and tactical goal development and implementation for Direct to Consumer, Marketing and Sales.  Hiring, Training and key employee reviews to ensure teams are staffed with high performing individuals.  Hands on management of BPO/ In-House/Near Shore and Off Shore Call Center Operations including Call Center vendor selection and management. Assistance with site location, market analysis, contract negotiations, RFP preparation, and C-level presentations.  Consultant for global professional services firms including AlphaSights, Gersen Lehrman Group, and Guide Point Advisors consulting for international firms such as McKinsey and Company and Boston Consulting Group plus Venture Capital and Private Equity firms covering Contact Center Technology, Compliance and Data Security to drive improved Business Performance and decision making. Artificial Intelligence expertise for Customer Experience tools and Contact Center Operations.

AI Job Losses 2026: The Inevitable Wave and How to Survive It

By Mike Schiano, Author of AI Is Coming for Your Job and Founder of SPS Contact

The Tipping Point Has Arrived

Artificial Intelligence isn’t coming for your job someday—it’s happening now.
Across industries, CEOs are making changes. They are no longer talking about “augmenting” the workforce. They’re preparing to replace significant portions of it by the end of 2026.

A 2025 HR Dive survey of more than 1,000 business leaders found significant trends. 39% of companies have already conducted layoffs due to AI. Furthermore, 37% plan to replace jobs with AI by 2026. The clock isn’t just ticking—it’s already running out.

“AI adoption is going to reshape the job market more dramatically over the next 18 to 24 months than we’ve seen in decades,” — Kara Dennison, CEO of Resume.org

Let that sink in: within two years, over one-third of all companies expect humans to be replaced by machines in at least some roles. This isn’t hypothetical. It’s a direct acknowledgment by those making the hiring—and firing—decisions.

Which Jobs Will Disappear First

Not all workers face equal risk. The AI wave targets one group first: people who do predictable work.

1. Administrative and Clerical Roles

AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and ChatGPT Enterprise are already automating scheduling, document preparation, and email management. The days of full-time administrative assistants are numbered.

2. Customer Service and Call Centers

At SPS Contact, we’ve seen the shift up close. Voice AI and virtual receptionists now handle scheduling, payments, and even basic troubleshooting 24/7—without fatigue, benefits, or turnover.

This means fewer entry-level agents and more need for AI supervisors and workflow analysts.

3. Bookkeeping, Data Entry, and Payroll

Accounting and back-office systems powered by automation platforms like Xero and QuickBooks AI are eliminating repetitive human tasks.

4. Entry-Level White-Collar Jobs

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei recently warned that “AI could wipe out half of all entry-level white-collar jobs”, predicting U.S. unemployment could hit 10–20% in the near term.
That’s not a startup founder crying wolf—it’s one of the most respected AI researchers alive.

Even High Earners Aren’t Safe

While automation once primarily affected blue-collar workers, 2026 will be the year it hits the professional class. The same HR Dive report showed that high-salary workers without AI fluency are now at risk of being “optimized out.”

Why? Because companies no longer need layers of management when AI can synthesize performance data, generate reports, and simulate decision-making.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy didn’t sugarcoat it:

“In the next few years, we expect … that this will reduce our total corporate workforce as we get efficiency gains from using AI extensively across the company.” — Andy Jassy, Amazon CEO

Walmart’s CEO Doug McMillon echoed that sentiment:

“It’s very clear that AI is going to change literally every job. Maybe there’s a job in the world that AI won’t change, but I haven’t thought of it.”

When the two largest employers in the United States are preparing for widespread role elimination, that’s not a forecast—it’s a reality check.

Global Scale: The Numbers Are Staggering

According to research compiled by National University and Goldman Sachs, as many as 300 million full-time jobs worldwide could be lost to AI automation by 2030—and the steepest decline begins in 2026.

McKinsey projects that 50% of current work activities could be automated with existing technology. These aren’t futuristic scenarios; these are current capabilities that most businesses simply haven’t scaled yet.

“AI will reshape the global labor market, creating incredible productivity but also deep disruption,”
— McKinsey Global Institute Report, 2025

The early data already shows what’s coming:

IBM has paused hiring for back-office roles it believes AI will replace.
Deloitte cut hundreds of analyst positions in favor of machine-learning automation.
Teleperformance, one of the largest global call center operators, announced that 15% of its workforce could be replaced by conversational AI tools within 18 months.

The “AI Divide” Between Winners and the Displaced

The emerging workforce will split into two camps:

Those who leverage AI to increase their impact
Those replaced by AI because they failed to adapt

At SPS Contact, we see both sides. Businesses adopting Virtual Sally kiosks and AI-driven scheduling assistants are improving efficiency by over 40%. But the flip side is clear—many of those efficiency gains are achieved by eliminating human roles.

In every case, the winners aren’t the biggest companies; they’re the fastest learners.

The key differentiator in 2026 won’t be how long you’ve worked somewhere. It will be how fast you can integrate AI into what you do.

2026: The Restructuring Year

The next 18–24 months represent a historic restructuring of the global job market.
According to a New York Fed analysis, companies have already begun scaling back hiring plans in anticipation of AI cost savings. That means job openings will shrink even before layoffs hit full swing.

By late 2026:

Customer service roles will be cut most heavily.
Data-driven marketing, content production, and sales operations jobs will consolidate.
Human-only workflows will be rare in large organizations.
Freelancers and contractors will face massive pricing pressure from AI tools.

And while new jobs will emerge—AI ethicists, data trainers, and machine-learning monitors will require re-skilling and specialization.

As NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang noted at VivaTech 2025:

“AI will make programming accessible to everyone, but it will also make a lot of jobs obsolete. You either learn to work with it, or it works without you.”

Where Home Services and Local Businesses Fit In

For SPS Contact’s clients—home-service companies, local lead-generation businesses, and professional service operators—the AI shift will hit just as hard, but in different ways.

Home Services

Automation in appointment setting, billing, and follow-up will replace entire office staff. The businesses that survive will adopt AI-driven client management and use tools to blend automation with a personal touch.

Local Lead Generation

AI-generated content is flooding the web.
If your marketing depends on generic SEO or template blog posts, you’ll vanish under AI-produced noise.

The only winning strategy is hyper-local human storytelling—something AI still can’t authentically replicate.

Professional Services

Expect consolidation. Accountants, realtors, legal assistants, and therapists are all facing efficiency-driven layoffs as AI platforms handle scheduling, document prep, and client triage.

If your clients aren’t adapting, they’re dying.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Business

Here’s the blunt reality:
AI isn’t just changing your job—it’s changing what a job even means.

The workers who survive 2026 and beyond will do three things differently:

Learn to Speak “AI”
- Understand prompts, automation workflows, and how to pair AI tools with your expertise.
- If you can’t explain how your work complements automation, you’re at risk.
Reskill Immediately
- Take online courses in data literacy, prompt engineering, and business automation.
- Don’t wait for your employer to train you—most won’t.
Position Yourself as the Human in the Loop
- AI can’t replicate empathy, leadership, or complex human negotiation.
- Become the person who ensures the technology works ethically and efficiently.

That’s the survival mindset outlined in my book, AI Is Coming for Your Job. It’s not fear—it’s foresight.

The Hard Truth: Complacency Is the New Layoff Notice

The biggest mistake workers will make in 2026 is denial.
They’ll assume they’re “too experienced,” “too valuable,” or “too human” to be replaced. They’re wrong.

AI doesn’t discriminate. It replaces tasks, not just people, and every job is a collection of tasks. The more routine those tasks, the closer you are to automation.

If your job can be documented, it can be automated. That’s the truth most don’t want to hear, but every forward-thinking leader needs to face it now.

Prepare or Be Replaced

By the end of 2026, the companies and workers who embrace AI will look like they’ve leapt five years ahead of everyone else. The ones who delay adaptation will be struggling to survive in a market that no longer values human inefficiency.

If you want to be on the winning side of this transformation, the time to act is today.

Download the free 10 Steps to Keep Your Job in the Age of AI and grab your copy of AI Is Coming for Your Job —your survival guide for the age of automation.

Why We Trust Flawed AI—and Why That’s the Real Danger

Why We Trust Flawed AI—and Why That’s the Real Danger
By Mike Schiano, AI Strategist, Author, Podcast Host

When OpenAI CEO Sam Altman admitted, “People have a very high degree of trust in ChatGPT… which is interesting, because AI hallucinates,” he wasn’t joking. AI doesn’t always tell the truth—and we know that. So why do millions still rely on it daily, often without question?

That’s the question explored in Rachel R. Rosner’s provocative article, The Allure of Flawed AI: Trusting the Machine, written for The Times of Israel Blog. Her insight? Our trust in AI isn’t just about convenience—it’s a psychological and cultural habit decades in the making.

A New Tech, an Old Pattern

Rosner connects today’s uncritical trust in AI to the theories of the Frankfurt School. This group consisted of mid-20th-century philosophers like Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer. They warned that mass media (think radio, TV, and advertising) didn’t just entertain—it trained us to accept appearances as truth. When something “looked and sounded” authoritative, we stopped asking if it was. I wrote about this phenomenon in 2005 in a paper detailing how advertising is a key driver of consumer debt.

Fast-forward to 2025: AI tools like ChatGPT speak fluently, remember your tone, and respond instantly. They sound like they know what they’re talking about. And for many users, that’s enough. Fluency now mimics trust. Confidence gets mistaken for credibility.

From Experience to Authority

Rosner points out a subtle danger: “The accuracy of the content becomes secondary to the experience of being guided.” That’s a massive shift. We’ve moved from evaluating what is being said to valuing how it’s being said.

Even when AI gets it wrong (and sometimes dangerously wrong, as in the case of xAI’s Grok making antisemitic statements), we continue to rely on it—especially in times of uncertainty. Why? Because the machine feels stable, consistent, and reliable—even when it’s objectively not.

The Real Threat Isn’t AI. It’s Us.

Rosner’s argument is chilling in its clarity: “The real concern is not whether AI will replace human reason. The real danger is that AI will train us to stop asking whether it should.”

In other words, the more we let AI think for us, the less we think about it.

This isn’t a call to panic—it’s a call to awareness. AI is here to stay. But we can’t afford to surrender our critical thinking to the fluency of machines. We need to question, verify, and stay curious—especially when the answers come in a confident tone.

Trusting AI blindly is easy. Questioning it is harder—but far more important. The future doesn’t belong to the most advanced algorithms. It belongs to the humans who know when to doubt them.

Rachel R. Rosner is an American, Israel-based philosopher, writer, and junior fellow at The Van Leer Jerusalem Institute. She recently completed her PhD in philosophy and writes on antisemitism, memory, identity, and critical theory. Her forthcoming book, Adorno and the Question of Theology: Religion and Reason Beyond Foundations (Bloomsbury). Read more of her work.

Tune in to In the Queue for more on this topic.

Texas Takes the Lead: New AI Consumer Protections Enacted

Texas Takes the Lead: New AI Consumer Protections Enacted

In this week’s episode of the In the Queue Podcast, where we delve into the intersections of technology, finance, and the evolving job market, we spotlight a significant development out of Texas that’s making waves in the realm of artificial intelligence and consumer rights.

On June 22, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 149 into law. It is officially known as the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act, or TRAIGA. This landmark legislation positions Texas at the forefront of AI regulation in the United States.

TRAIGA sets forth comprehensive guidelines to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed responsibly. Key provisions include:

Prohibition of Harmful AI Practices: The law bans AI systems that intentionally discriminate, promote self-harm, or encourage criminal behavior.
Restrictions on Government Use: Government entities are barred from using AI to assign social scores based on personal characteristics or behaviors. Additionally, deploying AI for biometric identification without individual consent is prohibited.
Protection of Constitutional Rights: AI systems designed solely to infringe upon constitutional rights or unlawfully discriminate against protected classes are expressly forbidden.

Encouraging Innovation with Oversight

Understanding the importance of fostering innovation, TRAIGA introduces a regulatory sandbox program. This initiative allows companies to test new AI systems without immediate regulatory repercussions, provided they obtain approval from the Texas Department of Information Resources and relevant agencies.

To oversee these efforts, the law establishes the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council. This body will monitor compliance and support the responsible advancement of AI technologies within the state.

Enforcement and Implications

Enforcement of TRAIGA falls under the exclusive authority of the Texas Attorney General. Violations can result in civil penalties of up to $100,000 per incident. Notably, the law specifies that enforcement actions cannot be taken against AI systems that have not been deployed.

For federally insured financial institutions, compliance with existing federal and state banking laws is deemed sufficient under TRAIGA, providing clarity and continuity for these entities.

Broader Impact and Future Outlook

TRAIGA’s enactment marks a significant step in balancing the rapid advancement of AI technologies with the imperative to protect individual rights and societal values. As AI continues to permeate various sectors, from finance to healthcare, such legislation serves as a blueprint for responsible innovation.

Other states and federal entities may look to Texas’s approach as a model for crafting their own AI governance frameworks.

Other States Protecting Consumers from AI

Several states have taken meaningful steps similar to Texas to protect consumers from AI-related risks. They focus on algorithmic discrimination, transparency, risk assessments, and enforcement. Here is an overview of leading state actions:

Colorado

Colorado AI Act (SB 24-205): Enacted in May 2024, this is viewed as the most comprehensive state law to date. It regulates “high-risk” AI systems, requiring developers and deployers to use reasonable care to avoid algorithmic discrimination, particularly in consequential decisions related to education, employment, finance, healthcare, housing, insurance, and legal services.
The law empowers the attorney general to enforce penalties for violations.

California

Consumer Privacy Laws: California has two major privacy laws with AI provisions. The state’s consumer privacy law grants residents the right to opt out of AI-driven profiling that impacts employment, insurance, health, or other outcomes.
California AI Transparency Act (SB 942): Effective January 2026, this law requires providers of widely used AI systems to disclose automatically generated content, with significant penalties for noncompliance. The state also prohibits using bots to incentivize sales without disclosure.

Utah

The Utah Artificial Intelligence Policy Act mandates consumer disclosure for AI use cases, such as chatbots, impacting consumers’ awareness and protection when interacting with AI systems. Recent amendments extended its effect and focused the requirements through 2027.

New Jersey

SB 332: Enacted in January 2024, this law requires companies to notify consumers and allow them to opt out when personal data is collected and used for automated decisions. The law prohibits use or processing of personal data in a discriminatory manner

Illinois

Workplace Legislation: In August 2024, a law was enacted barring employers from using AI that considers an applicant’s race or zip code in hiring decisions. Additional proposed bills would require impact assessments on automated decision-making affecting employment, education, and housing, and reporting those assessments to state authorities.

Connecticut

Connecticut has regulated government AI procurement and use since 2023 and is expected to soon expand protections into the private sector

Massachusetts, New Mexico, Vermont, Virginia, Georgia, Hawaii

These states have introduced—and in some cases advanced—legislation requiring risk management, impact assessments, and prohibiting certain forms of algorithmic discrimination. Massachusetts’ and New Mexico’s pending acts closely mirror Colorado’s risk-based approach; Vermont’s proposal focuses on high-risk systems and transparency; Virginia passed a comprehensive bill through its legislature (though it was vetoed in 2024), and Georgia, Hawaii, and others are considering similar proposals.

Other Leading States with AI Consumer Protections

State	Key Provisions	Status
Colorado	Broad ban on AI discrimination in critical sectors; penalties for violations	Enacted
California	Consumer opt-out for profiling; transparency for AI-generated content	Enacted
Utah	Disclosure mandates; consumer notifications for AI use	Enacted
New Jersey	Opt-out for automated data use; anti-discrimination in data processing	Enacted
Illinois	Ban on race/zip in AI hiring; proposed risk and impact assessments	Enacted/Proposed
Connecticut	AI safeguards in government procurement; broader protections pending	Enacted
Massachusetts	Risk management/disclosure for high-risk AI	Proposed
New Mexico	Risk-based regulation for AI, similar to CO	Proposed
Vermont	Transparency; anti-discrimination for high-risk AI	Proposed
Virginia	Comprehensive protections (vetoed 2024, may return in future)	Proposed

Key Trends

Comprehensive Laws: Colorado and California set the national standard for broad, cross-sectoral protections.
Sector Focus: Employment, insurance, lending, and healthcare are commonly prioritized.
Opt-Out and Transparency: Many states require consumer notification, opt-out mechanisms, and clear disclosures.
Enforcement: Most laws or proposals grant enforcement power to state attorneys general, often with significant penalties for violations.

Texas is part of a rapidly expanding movement among states to regulate AI for consumer protection, with many adopting similar frameworks against discrimination, mandating risk assessment, ensuring transparency, and empowering consumers with actionable rights

References for this article

Pope Leo is concerned with AI

by Michael Schiano – Operations Executive | AI & Workforce Strategist | Host of “Mike About Money” and “In the Queue,“ Podcasts.

Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV. We are excited for his leadership and guidance.

In his first official address the new Pope included his thoughts on what he called another Industrial Revolution that is taking place in the field of Artificial Intelligence. He said, AI poses “new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.” Read Emma Bubola’s story about Pope Leo’s speech in the NY Times.

Though the Pope may not have read my new book yet, AI is Coming for Your Job, I am glad to be on the leading edge of what the Pope sees as a social question that the Catholic Church will weigh in on.

It may surprise some that the Pope is thinking about AI and its impact on workers. But it shows the serious threat that this new technology brings to the world when the leader of the Catholic Church would feel compelled to mention it in his initial message.

Some describe AI as the greatest threat to mankind while others describe it as the greatest breakthrough. As with any power, how it is deployed is key. Will it be used for good? Undoubtedly, and it is already being used to make businesses more efficient and save lives. Will it be used for evil purposes? Absolutely, and it is already being used by criminals.

The gold rush to leverage AI in every way possible continues to grow each day. In this hurry, workers are already feeling the pressure on their jobs. As reported by Bloomberg and other media, AI is in the process of replacing more than 50% of the tasks performed by market research analysts and 67% of tasks performed by sales representatives.

In AI is Coming for Your Job, What you can do to Survive and Thrive, workers in all industries will find action steps and resources they can take immediately to protect their jobs, careers and income from the inevitable impact of Artificial Intelligence.

What do you think?

Future of Creative Jobs: Roger Hooks on Why AI Won’t Replace You — Unless You Let It

By Michael Schiano | Featuring insights from the In the Queue Podcast with Mike Schiano

What happens to creative jobs in a world run by Artificial Intelligence?
That’s the question on everyone’s mind — and Roger Hooks, Creative Director at Super Micro, has a bold answer:

“You won’t lose your job to AI. You’ll lose your job to someone who knows how to use it.”

In the latest episode of In the Queue with Mike Schiano, Hooks shares powerful, real-world insights from over 36 years in the creative industry. He’s worked with giants like Apple, Intel, Nvidia, and Universal Music. Whether you’re a business owner or a creative professional, his message is clear: AI is a tool, not a threat. But only if you choose to learn it.

AI Doesn’t Replace Creativity — It Speeds It Up

According to Hooks, AI is like a digital assistant that helps you brainstorm faster, sketch quicker, and develop ideas for review much more efficiently.

“AI is more of a development tool — not the end result.”

For example, his team uses AI to create “rough comps” in video production and still images. This allows management teams to visualize concepts earlier in the creative process, making it easier to secure approvals and move projects forward.

Tip for Small Businesses:
Hooks recommends starting small with AI. Use it for idea generation and concept development before investing in more advanced tools.

The Barrier to Entry is Lower — But So Is the Filter

AI is lowering the barriers for entering creative fields. While that means more opportunities, it also means more competition.

“The barrier of entry is lower. So, there will be more people there.”

When everyone has access to powerful tools, your portfolio becomes your strongest weapon.
Hooks says that where you went to school or where you are from doesn’t matter. What matters is how well you can demonstrate your skills to a potential employer or client.

Can You Articulate Your Ideas?

One of the most important skills for modern creatives, according to Hooks, is articulation — the ability to clearly explain your ideas to clients, managers, and even AI tools.

“The one that can articulate their idea the best is the one who’s going to get more ideas across.”

Whether you’re pitching a project or designing a marketing campaign, strong communication is key to success.

Creativity Isn’t Dying — It’s Evolving

According to Roger, artificial Intelligence isn’t here to replace creative professionals. It’s here to reshape the way they work. The future belongs to those who learn the tools, keep the human touch, and continue to innovate.

Want more insights like this?
👉 Follow Mike Schiano and subscribe to In the Queue Podcast for expert advice on navigating the new world of work.

Mike’s new book, AI is Coming for Your Job, What to do to Survive and Thrive is available as an eBook or paperback where you get your books.

🏠 The White House May Slash Housing Aid—Here’s Why Business Leaders Should Be Paying Close Attention

By Michael Schiano | SPS Contact
Operations Executive | AI & Workforce Strategy | Host of “Mike About Money” and “In the Queue.“

Imagine your frontline employees losing their homes—and your business losing its frontline. That’s not a far-off crisis. It’s a policy decision being considered right now.

In the latest episode of Mike About Money, we unpacked a proposal from the White House that could radically change how housing assistance is delivered across the country. If you’re a business leader, this isn’t just a social issue—it’s a direct threat to workforce stability and economic performance.

🚨 What’s Happening?

The administration is exploring a potential overhaul of the Section 8 Housing Voucher Program, which helps millions of low-income Americans pay rent. The current proposal? Replace federal vouchers with state-issued housing grants—a shift that could dramatically reduce the level of aid available and delay how quickly help reaches families.

Even though officials claim “no final decisions have been made,” the implications are already causing concern in financial, social, and employer circles.

“If workers can’t afford to live, they can’t afford to work.”
— from the Mike About Money podcast

🏢 Why Business Leaders Should Care

If you have employees in food service, home care, cleaning, healthcare, construction, or transportation, chances are some of them rely on housing support.

Removing or shrinking that support puts your workforce at risk. Here’s how:

🌍 Geographic displacement: Workers pushed out of housing markets near job sites
🧭 Reduced reliability: More missed shifts, higher absenteeism, and turnover
📉 Economic spillover: Disruption spreads to local businesses, services, and supply chains

Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about policy. It’s about productivity, performance, and people.

AI tools for 15 dollars — Are you still paying for each AI tool individually?

💼 What Should Business Leaders Do Now?

Here are three steps every employer should consider:

Audit Your Workforce
Understand how many employees might be affected. Are they renters? Do they receive Section 8 assistance?
Engage With Local Policy
Connect with housing authorities and advocacy groups. Lend your voice. State-level decisions will matter more than ever.
Invest in Stability
Consider offering relocation support, transportation assistance, or emergency housing stipends. These aren’t just perks—they’re workforce retention tools.

🎧 Let’s Talk About It

On Mike About Money, we dive into how this policy could impact employers, public agencies, and the economy at large. It’s a conversation every business owner and HR leader should hear.

🎙️ Listen to the episode here

💬 Join the Conversation

Have you dealt with employee housing challenges in your business? What policies have worked—or failed—for your workforce?

Let’s connect. Drop your thoughts in the comments or DM me directly. At SPS Contact Services, we help businesses navigate uncertainty with clarity and operational insight.

Thrive in the Age of AI: 10 Smart Strategies for Professionals

By Michael Schiano | AI Strategist & Contact Center Consultant | Atlanta, GA

Artificial intelligence isn’t coming—it’s already transforming how we work, communicate, and grow our careers. For business professionals, mastering AI is no longer optional; it’s essential. This comprehensive guide unpacks 10 powerful, actionable strategies to help you thrive in the AI-driven workplace.

1. Work Smarter, Not Harder with AI Productivity Tools

The most successful professionals today aren’t necessarily working longer hours—they’re working smarter. AI-powered productivity tools are now essential for saving time, boosting efficiency, and elevating the quality of work. Platforms like ChatGPT and Claude can draft emails, generate reports, summarize meetings, and even create marketing content.

Presentation platforms like Tome and Gamma eliminate the frustration of design formatting. They let you focus on what truly matters: ideas and communication. These tools can reduce time spent on routine content creation by up to 70%, giving you back hours each week to focus on strategic goals.

2. Master Prompt Engineering: Speak AI’s Language

Prompt engineering is the cornerstone of effective AI collaboration. The quality of your output depends on how well you communicate your intent to the AI. Think of it as learning a new language—one that helps you instruct your digital assistant more effectively.

Here are key principles:

Be Specific: Vague prompts produce vague results. Clarify your desired outcome.
Give Context: AI performs best when it understands the full picture.
Define Tone and Format: Do you want the content to be formal? Conversational? Structured as bullet points?
Break Tasks Down: Complex jobs yield better results when split into smaller, manageable steps.

Master this skill using free resources like LearnPrompting.org, and you’ll dramatically boost the usefulness of any AI tool you work with.

3. Automate Repetitive Work and Reclaim Your Time

Time is your most valuable resource—and automation helps protect it. Tools like Zapier, Make, and IFTTT can automate everyday workflows, from syncing your CRM with your calendar to sending follow-up emails after meetings.

Examples of what you can automate:

Lead intake and routing
Monthly performance reports
Task notifications and reminders

The result? More time for innovation, creativity, and leadership—the areas where you bring unique value that AI cannot replicate.

4. Design Like a Pro Without Being One

Design has long been a barrier for non-creatives. Not anymore. AI-powered tools like Canva, Midjourney, and DALL-E make it possible to produce professional-grade visuals without hiring a designer.

Need a social media post? A sales deck? A digital ad? You can create them in minutes. These tools use smart templates and design suggestions to simplify your creative process while ensuring visually stunning results.

Even better, you don’t need to start from scratch—just input your message and let the AI help bring it to life.

5. Double Down on Human Skills AI Can’t Replace

While AI is great at data analysis, pattern recognition, and automation, it still lacks the qualities that define human excellence. To stay ahead, professionals must focus on developing irreplaceable human skills:

Emotional Intelligence: Understanding, managing, and leveraging emotions to connect and lead.
Creative Storytelling: Crafting narratives that resonate.
Complex Problem-Solving: Navigating uncertainty and ambiguity.
Strategic Leadership: Making tough decisions with foresight and empathy.

By investing in these capabilities, you’re not just future-proofing your career—you’re elevating it.

6. Make Learning a Weekly Habit

In the AI era, the learning curve never stops. Technology evolves fast, and the professionals who thrive are those who adapt. Just 30 minutes a week can make a difference.

Use platforms like Coursera, Udemy, edX, and LinkedIn Learning to:

Discover new tools and platforms
Strengthen your digital fluency
Understand the ethical and strategic implications of AI in your industry

Consistent, bite-sized learning compounds over time and gives you a competitive edge in the market.

7. Turn AI Into a Side Hustle Engine

AI isn’t just for streamlining your 9-to-5—it’s a catalyst for entrepreneurship. There’s a growing demand for AI-enhanced services across multiple sectors. With just a few hours a week, you can build a profitable side hustle using AI tools.

Ideas to explore:

Freelance Content Creation: Use AI to speed up blogs, product descriptions, and ad copy.
Digital Art and Design: Sell AI-generated art, templates, and designs on platforms like Etsy.
Tech Consulting: Help small businesses integrate AI tools into their operations.
Niche Market Products: Build and sell digital courses or eBooks with the help of AI content generation.

AI reduces your startup costs and time investment—it lowers the barrier to entry for launching something of your own.

8. Supercharge Your Personal Brand

In a digital-first world, your personal brand is often your first impression. AI can support the development of a compelling online presence that reflects your expertise and personality.

Here’s how AI can help:

Generate Content Ideas: Use tools to brainstorm article or post topics.
Draft Initial Content: Create outlines or first drafts of posts, emails, and bios.
Summarize Industry Trends: Stay ahead by turning complex articles into digestible summaries.
Ensure Consistency: Tools like Buffer and Hootsuite powered by AI can schedule and optimize your social posts.

Remember: AI is the assistant. You bring the insight and personality that make your brand unforgettable.

9. Adopt a Collaborative Mindset Toward AI

Some professionals see AI as a threat. But the most successful view it as a collaborator. When used strategically, AI becomes a force multiplier, not a competitor.

Collaboration with AI means:

Streamlining Routine Tasks: Delegate to machines what doesn’t require your creativity or judgment.
Enhancing Creativity: Use AI as a brainstorming partner.
Expanding Your Reach: With AI tools, one person can do the work of an entire team.

The sooner you shift from resistance to collaboration, the sooner you unlock new levels of performance.

10. Take Action This Week

Don’t just read about these strategies—start applying them. Here’s a simple plan to put what you’ve learned into motion:

Try one new AI tool (e.g., ChatGPT, Tome, Canva)
Enroll in a free prompt engineering course
Identify two tasks you can automate this month
Schedule 30 minutes to explore a new AI skill or course

These small steps create momentum. And momentum is what drives transformation.

The professionals who thrive in this new era won’t be the ones who resist change—they’ll be the ones who embrace it. for those who take action now, AI can amplify your value as an employee or business leader.

By mastering AI tools, you will transform potential disruption into your greatest opportunity. Develop prompt engineering skills. Automate routine tasks, and double down on what makes you uniquely human.

The future belongs to those who adapt, innovate, and lead. Let AI be your competitive advantage—starting now.

Never Miss Another Lead: 7 AI-Powered Ways to Book More Appointments & Win More Customers.

By Michael Schiano | AI Strategist & Contact Center Consultant | Atlanta, GA

Running a direct to consumer small business by yourself or with just a few employees can lead to missed opportunities.

What is 10x better than voicemail and 10x cheaper than an answering service?

An AI powered Contact Center that answers your calls. Then helps set appointments while sending you the messages. This happens while you run your business and keep your customers thrilled with your services.

Every missed call or unreturned text is lost revenue. In this article discover how smart, small business owners are using AI and automation to book more jobs, boost customer satisfaction, and free up their time—without hiring more staff.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, local service providers—like HVAC companies, med spas, and legal offices—can’t afford to miss a single lead. Yet most still rely on outdated phone systems and human receptionists who are only available during working hours. This is where AI voice agents come in.

For example, imagine a roofing company that receives 15 calls a day, 6 of which come in after hours. With an AI agent, those leads are captured, qualified, and scheduled automatically. No voicemail, no delay.

AI Powered ways to book more appointments

7 proven ways AI can help you boost your business

Instantly Respond to Website Visitors
Add a 24/7 chatbot to answer questions and book jobs even when you’re closed. When a potential customer lands on your website at 9:30 p.m., do they get a response—or do they bounce?

With AI chatbots like Rosie, ChatGPT, or GoHighLevel, your business can answer questions, qualify leads, and even book appointments 24/7. No voicemail. No missed opportunity.

💡 Why it works: Instant responses = higher conversion. Most customers will choose the first business that talks to them.

Automated Text Follow-Ups
AI sends reminders and follow-ups to convert leads and reduce no-shows.Ever forget to follow up on a quote or reminder text? That’s lost money.

AI can be trained to send automated, personalized follow-ups via SMS or email—turning your warm leads into paying customers without lifting a finger.

💡 Why it works: Follow-ups increase conversions by up to 50%, and automation means noone drops the ball.

Smart Appointment Routing
Automatically assign appointments to the right team member based on skill or zone.Are you still manually assigning jobs by zip code or skill? Let AI handle that.

Systems like GoHighLevel and Air.ai can route appointments to the right team member based on geography, service type, or even client history.

💡 Why it works: Less admin time, fewer double bookings, and faster job turnarounds.

Voice-to-CRM Integration
Turn missed calls and voicemails into booked jobs using AI transcription and auto-responses. When you miss a call, AI steps in.

AI voice agents can answer, transcribe, and log the call into your CRM, then send a personalized text or email with a booking link—all without human involvement.

💡 Why it works: You convert missed calls into booked jobs, while your CRM stays up-to-date.

AI-Generated Review Requests
Get 5-star reviews by automatically texting customers after each appointment. Struggling to get more 5-star reviews? AI systems can automatically text or email review requests to satisfied customers post-service, using smart timing and friendly language that boosts response rates.

💡 Why it works: More reviews = higher local search rankings and social proof.

Lead Source Attribution
Know exactly where your leads came from and what messaging converts best.Where are your best leads coming from—Google Ads, Facebook, or word of mouth?

AI can track every call, click, and form submission and tie it back to the original source, giving you clear data on what’s actually working.

💡 Why it works: You stop wasting ad spend and double down on what drives revenue.

Upsell Campaigns via Text or Email
AI sends personalized upgrade offers to past customers, boosting revenue.Your best customers are your past customers—but only if you stay top of mind.

AI can automatically send personalized upgrade offers, seasonal service reminders, or product recommendations that bring customers back.

💡 Why it works: AI up-selling can increase average order value by 20–30%—without a sales team.

These aren’t just “nice-to-have” tactics—they’re revenue multipliers that give small businesses the same automation power as billion-dollar companies.

Want to see how these could work in your business?
Let’s talk. I offer free 15-30 minute strategy calls to map out a custom AI blueprint based on your goals.

While you are at it, grab a free copy of my new book, AI is Coming For Your Job.

The Super Humanoids are here to take your Job

I’m not joking. They are literally here now. Working. If you work for companies that warehouse and ship products, the future is upon you.

MECH is on the job. This industrial super-humanoid robot has two arms mounted on a rover. These arms allow it to navigate warehouses and industrial sites with ease. With its impressive 17.72-foot arm span, Mech can lift up to 132 pounds. It is designed to tackle stressful and repetitive tasks. You know, the tasks normally handled by human employees.

MECH was built by Dexterity, a Physical AI and robotics company based in Redwood City, California. The company specializes in using Physical AI. Their goal is to embed robots with human-like dexterity in companies around the world.

according to the company Web site, Dexterity’s full-stack robotics automate repetitive tasks. They unlock the maximum value of the workforce. Employees can then focus on higher-level, cognitive work. Does this sound familiar? You will hear this alot as AI replaces jobs held by humans. There simply is not enough “cognitive work” to go around.

Dexterity already serves big shipping companies like FedEx, UPS and Maersk.

Navigating Workers’ Concerns and Business Owners’ Optimism is a delicate balancing act.

AI superhumanoid robots are emerging and transforming workplaces across industries. They blend cutting-edge artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and sensor technology. This combination allows them to perform tasks with remarkable precision. These advanced robots, designed to mimic human appearance and behavior, are sparking both excitement and apprehension. For business owners, they represent an unprecedented opportunity for innovation and efficiency. For workers, however, they raise concerns about job security, workplace dynamics, and the future of human labor.

Are you still paying for every AI tool separately?

Workers’ Concerns: Protecting Jobs and Preserving Humanity

As AI superhumanoid robots gain traction, many workers are grappling with fears about their place in the evolving workforce. The most pressing concern is job displacement. Unlike traditional industrial robots confined to specific roles, superhumanoids can adapt, learn, and interact seamlessly with humans. Their ability to handle diverse responsibilities—ranging from customer service and caregiving to logistics and technical support—is impressive. Workers are worried that even jobs requiring emotional intelligence may soon be automated. There is also concern for tasks requiring physical dexterity.

Another significant worry is the devaluation of human labor. Employees fear that as companies prioritize investments in superhumanoid robots, the unique contributions of human workers may be undervalued. This shift could lead to increased workloads, more complex responsibilities, or mandatory adaptation to new technologies—often without fair compensation or adequate training.

Privacy and surveillance concerns are also on the rise. Equipped with advanced cameras, audio sensors, and analytics tools, these robots could potentially monitor employee behavior, productivity levels, or even emotional states. Many workers feel uneasy about the possibility of their actions being scrutinized in real time by machines, creating a workplace environment that feels more invasive than collaborative.

Finally, there’s a deep concern about the loss of human connection. In industries like healthcare, hospitality, and education—where emotional interaction is vital—replacing humans with humanoid robots risks creating sterile environments that lack empathy. Workers worry this shift could erode morale while diminishing the quality of service provided to customers or patients.

Business Owners’ Optimism: Unlocking Efficiency and Innovation

For business owners, AI superhumanoid robots present exciting opportunities to revolutionize operations. One of the most compelling benefits is enhanced efficiency and cost savings. Unlike human employees, these robots can work tirelessly without breaks or sick days. They excel at performing repetitive or hazardous tasks with unmatched precision—making them invaluable in industries like manufacturing and logistics.

Another advantage is scalability and consistency. Superhumanoids can be deployed across global operations while maintaining standardized performance levels. This reduces variability associated with human labor and ensures consistent service delivery in sectors like customer support and healthcare.

Business leaders are also optimistic about addressing labor shortages. Many industries struggle to find skilled workers—especially in eldercare, hospitality, and skilled trades. AI humanoids can help bridge these gaps by performing essential tasks in areas where human labor is scarce or prohibitively expensive.

Additionally, superhumanoid robots offer unparalleled capabilities for real-time data collection. These machines provide actionable insights by observing customer behavior. They identify inefficiencies within workflows. This empowers businesses to make informed decisions. It helps them stay competitive in fast-changing markets.

Finding Balance: A Human-Centered Approach

As AI superhumanoid robots continue reshaping workplaces worldwide, the tension between workers’ fears and employers’ aspirations will only intensify. The path forward lies in fostering a human-centered approach—one that prioritizes ethical integration of technology while respecting the dignity of workers.

Do you think your company will take a human-centered approach to deploying AI technology in your workplace?

Listen to Mike Schiano In the Queue Podcast

AI means job displacement for workers of all ages

AI is Coming for your Job by Mike Schiano — Mike’s new book is now available on Amazon.

In the latest episode of Mike Schiano In the Queue, Digital Strategist Len Ward gives a detailed and stark outlook. He discusses the future for employees who do not adapt and upskill for AI.

Len Ward is the Managing Partner & Head of AI for Commexis, a firm helping businesses deploy GPT-powered systems. They automate operations and rethink how work is done. Len tells Mike in no uncertain terms, “AI will destroy every fabric of marketing,” but he remains very upbeat about the power of AI to help businesses of all sizes grow and prosper.

Join Mike and Len In the Queue where you get your favorite Podcasts including Spotify and Apple.

Key points from the program:

Mike Schiano (host)

Len Ward (guest, entrepreneur, business consultant, digital marketing expert)

Key Topics Discussed:

AI Adoption and Impact

AI has exploded in the past 12 months
Accessibility and quick user adaptation
AI is changing marketing fundamentally

Marketing Transformation

Marketing will be disrupted by AI
Future involves bot-to-bot negotiations
Brand marketing and human influence will remain relevant

Workforce Displacement

AI will impact workers across all age groups
Potential for mass layoffs in repetitive jobs
Marketing industry likely to be first significantly affected

Business Preparedness for AI

Three types of business owners:

a) Actively researching and implementing AI

b) Aware but overwhelmed

c) Fearful of potential business elimination

AI Implementation Strategy

Organize and digitize company content
Create a blueprint based on processes and systems
Automate repetitive tasks
Move from search-and-retrieve to problem-solving approach

Future of AI Companies

Existing tech giants will remain players
Potential for small, agile 5-person companies to become billion-dollar enterprises
Focus on innovative leaders and their potential

Action Items:

Stay informed about AI developments

Digitize and organize company content

Explore AI implementation in business processes

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

AI Doesn’t Replace Creativity — It Speeds It Up

The Barrier to Entry is Lower — But So Is the Filter

Can You Articulate Your Ideas?

Creativity Isn’t Dying — It’s Evolving

Share this:

Like this:

By Michael Schiano | SPS ContactOperations Executive | AI & Workforce Strategy | Host of “Mike About Money” and “In the Queue.“

🚨 What’s Happening?

🏢 Why Business Leaders Should Care

💼 What Should Business Leaders Do Now?

🎧 Let’s Talk About It

💬 Join the Conversation

Share this:

Like this:

1. Work Smarter, Not Harder with AI Productivity Tools

2. Master Prompt Engineering: Speak AI’s Language

3. Automate Repetitive Work and Reclaim Your Time

4. Design Like a Pro Without Being One

5. Double Down on Human Skills AI Can’t Replace

6. Make Learning a Weekly Habit

7. Turn AI Into a Side Hustle Engine

8. Supercharge Your Personal Brand

9. Adopt a Collaborative Mindset Toward AI

10. Take Action This Week

The professionals who thrive in this new era won’t be the ones who resist change—they’ll be the ones who embrace it. for those who take action now, AI can amplify your value as an employee or business leader.

Share this:

Like this:

Running a direct to consumer small business by yourself or with just a few employees can lead to missed opportunities.

Share this:

Like this:

Workers’ Concerns: Protecting Jobs and Preserving Humanity

Business Owners’ Optimism: Unlocking Efficiency and Innovation

Finding Balance: A Human-Centered Approach

Share this:

Like this:

Share this:

Like this:

By Michael Schiano | SPS Contact
Operations Executive | AI & Workforce Strategy | Host of “Mike About Money” and “In the Queue.“