> Knowledge hub > L&D meets AI: Making employees fit for the use of generative AIGenerative artificial intelligence is changing the world of work – and at a rapid pace. Companies that do not prepare their employees for the use of this technology in good time run the risk of being left behind. But how can we not only equip employees with knowledge about AI, but also actually enable them to use these tools effectively in their day-to-day work? The answer lies in modern learning and development approaches that promote practical and continuous learning.
Ideally, the introduction to the world of generative AI begins with interactive workshops that bring all employees up to a common level of knowledge. One- to two-day AI workshops that combine theoretical principles with practical exercises are a tried-and-tested format. While tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E or Jasper AI are presented in the morning, the afternoon is dedicated directly to application. For example, employees create their first automated customer newsletter with ChatGPT, generate social media visuals with DALL-E or let AI support them in brainstorming for marketing campaigns. Such immediate experiences of success promote acceptance and motivation to engage further with the technology.
However, a one-off workshop is not enough to anchor the safe use of AI in everyday working life. This is where micro-learning formats come in. Short, flexible learning units – around 10 minutes per week – enable employees to continuously learn new things without interrupting their workflow. For example, a micro-learning module could be dedicated entirely to the topic of “prompt engineering”. Employees learn how to formulate precise instructions for AI tools in order to achieve the desired results. A typical task could be: “Formulate a prompt that ChatGPT uses to create a convincing product description tailored to a young target group.” Through such practical exercises, employees gradually build up a deep understanding of how generative AI works and its potential.
AI labs are a valuable resource for the transition from the learning phase to application in everyday working life. These labs – either as physical rooms in the company or as virtual platforms – offer employees the opportunity to try out new AI tools in a protected environment. For example, an HR team could test an AI-supported system that analyzes application letters and suggests suitable candidates. A sales team could use AI tools to analyse sales data and create personalized customer offers. They are supported by internal AI coaches who help with questions and develop customized solutions together with the teams. An AI lab like this not only promotes a culture of innovation, but also ensures that the technology is gradually integrated into everyday working life.
However, the actual learning often only takes place through application in real projects. Companies that initiate pilot projects achieve particularly good results here. A practical example: a marketing team uses generative AI to develop a complete social media campaign in a very short time – from idea generation to text creation and image design. Another company uses AI in customer service to create automated answers to frequently asked questions and relieve the support team. Such projects not only show employees the efficiency benefits of AI, but also motivate them to use the technology creatively.
A peer learning approach is a good way of anchoring the acquired knowledge in the company in the long term. By training AI guides – i.e. specially trained employees in each department – an internal support network is created. These guides not only answer questions, but also organize regular AI meet-ups in which experiences are exchanged and new use cases are presented. For example, at a monthly meet-up, the HR team presents how it uses AI to analyze employee surveys, while the marketing team shows how it uses AI-supported tools to carry out quick market analyses. Such formats promote company-wide exchange and ensure that the topic of AI remains alive.
The rapid development of generative AI makes it necessary to continuously adapt learning strategies. Regular AI check-ins – short online sessions in which new tools, updates and best practices are presented – are a simple but effective way to keep all employees up to date. A central learning platform that bundles all AI-related resources facilitates access and encourages self-directed learning. Companies that promote this continuous learning culture ensure that their employees are not only up to date today, but also tomorrow.
Generative AI is far more than just hype – it is a tool that can make everyday working life more efficient, creative and productive. But without targeted training, its potential remains untapped. Learning & Development departments can use a combination of interactive workshops, continuous micro-learning, practical AI labs, real projects and peer learning formats to ensure that their employees not only know what AI can do in theory, but also use it confidently in their day-to-day work. This turns the much-cited “technology of the future” into a real competitive advantage in the here and now.
