AI vs Human Insights: Key Differences and the Sweet Spot

There’s lots of talk at the moment about AI taking jobs and the AI bubble potentially overheating. In this article, I wanted to share some thoughts on the subject and allow people to think through some of the basic elements of using AI to improve work performance.

NB. When I mention AI think about the range of models and tools that sit under this broad umbrella term and what they offer. AI is much broader than just large language learning models (LLMs) and there’s loads of them to chose from as well.

Table showing AI and human strengths in selected work areas.

The above table highlights some key work areas where the strengths of the input from both AI and human insights can be seen.

It’s not a binary discussion - use it or don’t use it. AI is simply a tool, but as with any tool it’s about understanding how it can be used and when to use it. This tale is as old as time. Someone invents the wheel, the thresher, the printing press, the train, the car, nuclear bombs you get the gist. Progress brings challenge and people can be resistant to change. However, I think AI offers a different scale of opportunity for smaller businesses that was previously the domain of much larger businesses. It will change the landscape in most sectors.

Remember, AI can hallucinate, but so can humans. Neither is infallible. Choose carefully and sense check regularly.

Here are some basic thoughts on the sweet spot of human intelligence and AI and how can they be jointly used to produce better outcomes.

The Sweet Spot — “Augmented Intelligence”

The most effective approach isn’t AI or human — it’s AI + human in a feedback loop:

1. AI for breadth, humans for depth.
   Use AI to surface patterns, summarise large inputs, and suggest options then use human judgment to interpret and prioritise.

2. AI for speed, humans for sense.
   Let AI handle repetitive, data-heavy, or analytical work, while humans focus on empathy, ethics, and creativity.

3. AI as a thought partner.
   It can act as a “second brain,” helping you challenge assumptions, stress-test ideas, or explore multiple scenarios before choosing one.

4. Continuous dialogue.
   The best results come when humans guide the AI with context, values, and intent, and then iterate on its outputs rather than accepting them blindly.

In Practice Examples

• In coaching or strategy:
  AI can analyse survey data or sentiment trends; you interpret what that means for leadership, culture, or motivation.

• In marketing:
  AI drafts options based on audience data; you choose the one that best fits tone, brand voice, and purpose.

• In policy or finance:
  AI models outcomes; humans weigh moral, social, and political implications.

What are your thoughts feel free to share how you use AI in your business? If you want some advice we’d be happy to discuss options with you. Feel free to get in touch.

Guest podcast exploring sales, leadership, change and AI.

The podcast interview features Andrew, co-founder of Know and Do, in conversation with David Beharall, discussing the realities of sales, leadership, coaching, and change in business.

Andrew shares his journey from his first job at McDonald's—where he learned about systems, process, and early sales skills—to founding a values-driven coaching and consultancy business in the UK. The discussion emphasizes the importance of applied learning: taking knowledge and putting it into action to generate meaningful results.

Key topics covered include:

• Why most people get sales wrong: Andrew explains that many have a negative perception of sales, often associating it with pushiness or bad experiences. He believes the key is to shift mindset and see sales as helping others by offering something valuable, rather than as manipulation or pressure.

• What makes a good coach: The conversation explores the qualities of effective coaches—those who can listen, understand individual needs, and support genuine growth. Andrew highlights the importance of intuition, continuous learning, and adapting to each person.

• Leadership vs. management: Andrew distinguishes between the two, noting that leadership is about setting direction and inspiring people, while management is about organizing and maintaining systems. Both are necessary but require different skills and approaches.

• Practical approach to AI in business: The podcast briefly touches on artificial intelligence, focusing on practical uses rather than hype. Andrew suggests business leaders should look for ways AI can genuinely support their goals without getting distracted by trends.

• Creating real change: Andrew stresses the importance of creating space for change, both personally and within organizations. This involves self-awareness, openness to feedback, and a willingness to do the work rather than just chase trends.

Throughout, Andrew shares personal anecdotes—such as a formative car accident and his experiences in sales and academia—that shaped his philosophy. The conversation is aimed at business leaders, team managers, and anyone considering their next steps, offering insights on mindset, practical learning, and purposeful leadership over following fads.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQcJ28AAiXA

David Beharall is an ex-premier league footballer and co-founder of Is This You? www.isthis-you.com.