While everyone debates whether AI will replace managers, Harvard researchers just dropped a bombshell. In their latest study, they found that swapping a weak leader for a strong one improved team performance by 5x, and here's the kicker: the best leaders excelled whether their teammates were human or AI.

Leadership is More Human Than Ever

The secret sauce wasn't technical prowess or louder voices. Top-performing leaders asked more questions, encouraged turn-taking, and used "we" instead of "I." They acted like facilitators, not dictators, proving that in an age of artificial intelligence, authentic human leadership skills matter more than ever.

This isn't only feel-good theory and news headlines, it's data-driven reality. As keynote speaker and leadership expert Martin Gutmann notes in his recent Forbes piece, "The question isn't just 'What can AI do?' It's 'What can I do best, and how do I team up smarter?'" The leaders who accurately assessed their own limitations performed better because they knew when to delegate, listen, and even defer to algorithms.

Ready to see this in action? Martin's hosting a 30-minute webinar on September 16th at 12:30pm BST, exclusively with PepTalk, to reveal what really makes teams thrive in today's chaos. Can't make it? Sign up and we'll send you the recording, or talk to PepTalk about bringing Martin to your team for leadership insights that actually stick.

High Performance Secrets: You're Invited

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‍What? The Secret to Leading High-Performance Teams and Organisations with Martin Gutmann‍

When? Tuesday, 16th September 2025 | 12:30pm BST‍

Where? Online

Drawing from iconic examples like the Chicago Bulls, cutting-edge research on psychological safety, humble leadership, and team chemistry, Martin will explore:

  • What truly makes teams thrive?‍
  • How can leaders unlock hidden potential?‍
  • Why does this matter more than ever in today’s volatile world?

Expect myth-busting insights, practical strategies, and stories you won’t forget. Your chance to see a sought-after speaker in action and walk away with a fresh, actionable toolkit to build high-performance teams that succeed while making it look effortless. Save your seat.

A quick word from Martin

Written by Kelly Vickery
Kelly Vickery, Client Partner for PepTalk OnDemand sales, has 15+ years of experience in Talent and Employer Branding at top e-commerce brands. A qualified coach, she helps organisations support their employees, enhance learning, develop skills, and drive career and personal growth.