IBM Leader Urges Managers to Combat AI-Driven Skill Erosion

Aparna Nair, IBM's chief talent, leadership & culture officer, emphasizes that managers must adapt their strategies to help employees combat skill erosion caused by AI. A recent IBM survey of 1,500 CHROs and 8,800 employees found that 75% of workers believe AI is already diminishing their skills, particularly critical thinking. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania warn of "cognitive surrender," where employees rely too heavily on AI, leading to reduced autonomy, confidence, and reasoning abilities, which could harm career growth.

Nair suggests that managers, who understand their teams' strengths and weaknesses, are well-positioned to guide skill development. However, many companies are reducing middle management roles, with 40% of employees reporting management cuts in 2025 and one in five organizations expected to flatten their org charts through 2026, according to a Gartner report. Companies like Apple, Meta, Google, and Amazon have cut thousands of middle management positions to streamline operations.

To mitigate skill erosion, Nair advises managers to preserve early-career learning pathways, identify shifting skill needs, and provide personalized learning opportunities. She also recommends supporting skill retention through internal opportunities and stretch assignments. Deborah Lovich, a C-suite advisor, argues that managers should focus on coaching and motivating their teams rather than administrative tasks, as human coaching remains irreplaceable.