What AI Can’t Replace: The Value of True Human Connection

The more I dive into AI strategies, the more I appreciate just how valuable genuine connection is. Have you felt that too?

This past Monday, we hosted the October AI Roundtable, focusing on AI’s Impact on Hiring—how it affects both companies and job seekers. It's a challenging situation with everyone involved feeling the friction. The potential benefits seem to be falling short.

A few weeks before the roundtable, I had a LinkedIn Live conversation with Scott Holsman, President of Next Level Performers, where we discussed the same topic. Our main takeaway? No matter how much technology evolves, finding ways to connect genuinely with others remains crucial.

At the AI Roundtable, participants—whether HR professionals, hiring managers, or job seekers—all landed on the same conclusion: in today’s world, genuine connection sets companies and individuals apart.

You can find a quick recap of the Roundtable on LinkedIn, but here’s what really stood out to me: despite our growing reliance on technology, there’s a deep, persistent craving for authentic human connection.

And we can definitely tell when it’s missing or fake, right? Several people shared stories about receiving automated emails with incorrect names—little mistakes that can make interactions feel impersonal.

When true connection is genuine, it becomes even more noticeable. That’s why a moment at a Starbucks a few months ago caught my attention.

I had arrived early for a meeting, and the Starbucks manager greeted me warmly the second I walked in. Her genuine approach made an impression, but when she later came over to clear away our trash so we could spread out our papers, I was truly taken aback.

The manager wasn’t just being polite; she was paying attention and looking for ways to make our experience better, without us even asking. That kind of thoughtful service is rare these days.

As I watched her throughout the morning, she kept up this attentive attitude—arranging items on shelves, picking up trash left by customers, chatting with other tables, and encouraging her team behind the counter.

Starbucks team at Blue Ridge Crossing, Independence, MO | Kelly Byrnes

Before I left, I couldn’t resist learning more about this remarkable manager.

Mikayla, as it turned out, was new to the role. She spoke about her team with enthusiasm and genuine excitement, looking forward to the new people joining them and the changes ahead. It was clear that she cared deeply about her team and their growth. Our conversation was brief, but it left an impression—she spoke more about her team than herself.

Her team noticed us talking and happily posed for a photo. I’m not sure if they’ll remember me, but I definitely remember them—and Mikayla.

Mikayla and her team at the Starbucks in Blue Ridge Crossing, Independence, Missouri, were living reminders of the power of genuine connection.

Just by being themselves, they connected with each other and with every customer who came through that morning. In doing so, they stood out from the many automated interactions we all face in our AI-driven workdays.