AI is reducing our interactions at work and changing workplace relationships.gettyAI is changing work significantly, for better and for worse. But new data points to a concerning trend in which AI is damaging human connection, because people don’t interact with colleagues as much, rely on coworkers or reinforce relationships in the work process. And while we certainly must embrace AI, lean in and learn so we’re not left behind, the trend toward reduced connection comes at a time when people are lonely, disconnected and depressed. We’re not interacting as much in our day-to-day lives so work has become one of the primary avenues to seek a sense of community. But if work becomes more transactional based on the impact of AI, the problems of mental health and isolation may be exacerbated.New data finds that overall, 74% of people now ask AI questions they used to ask coworkers. This is based on a survey of 22,481 people across the US, UK, Canada, Europe, Latin America, Australia, New Zeeland, Singapore, South Africa and the UAE by MyIQ.Reliance on AI may seem like a good thing and in the MyIQ survey, 71% of people said they felt more self-sufficient at work and 62% felt more comfortable making decisions independently. But work isn’t just about individual efficiency it is also about building collective knowledge, shared capability and professional trust. And with less interaction, these may be hindered. In addition, 53% of people reported to MyIQ that their workday was more transactional. And when work is more transactional, rather than relational or transformational, it is less fulfilling or rewarding.Retain Relationships While Using AIHere’s how to retain relationships at the same time you’re making brilliant use of AI.1. Ask Others for InputIn the MyIQ survey, 59% of people ask colleagues for second opinions less often than they did before using AI and 44% validate their own thinking with AI, rather than coworkers.To ensure that you’re making the best decisions, ask others for their points of view, and ensure you’re getting not just the facts, but the context and nuances associated with creating knowledge or making decisions. You don’t need to ask for input from colleagues on everything, but be intentional about expanding your horizons in your work by involving humans appropriately. 2. Strike Up ConversationIn the MyIQ survey, 48% of people say they are having less spontaneous conversations with colleagues.We create relationships through scheduled or more formal time with others, but also through the unanticipated interactions or the unexpected moments. It’s the knowing glance we exchange, the eye roll we share or the details we learn about something we have in common with our teammate. These unite us and form connections.Check in with colleagues, ask questions, get to know them and share details yourself as well. Getting to know others helps to quell loneliness and provides a greater sense of community at work.3. Focus on Learning from OthersProblems today are more complex than ever and we need plenty of perspectives and points of view to make the best decisions. Knowing others, understanding who we can count on and appreciating colleagues’ unique skills are critical to our ability to bring them into discussions or decisions. But 46% say they know less about how their coworkers approach problems, according to the MyIQ data.Ask for input, ideas and expertise beyond what you’ll get from AI. Ensure that you’re not working in the isolated echo chamber of technology and that you’re bringing humans into the loop.4. Tune In and EmpathizeFully 43% reported that they are having a harder time reading their colleagues professionally, based on MyIQ data. This makes sense, because if we’re interacting less, we know less about any one individual, but we may also struggle with social rust in which our relationship skills or social skills atrophy. In fact, 37% of people said they lacked communication skills, based on data reported in Personnel Today. And 25% of remote workers say their social skills had deteriorated based on a survey by ResumeBuilder.Even when you’re using AI at work, ensure you’re tuning into colleagues, empathizing and staying present to provide support or to ask for input or advice. These will help sustain connection.5. Seek Out NewbiesWe’ve all been in situations where we’re the new kid on the block, and 38% of respondents to the MyIQ survey believe that newer employees have fewer opportunities to build relationships. The work process used to be the natural way to get to know others. As these natural moments are reduced, you can reach out and offer to help, orient and get to know people who have just joined your team or organization.Create and Sustain Connections We are increasingly lonely and 55% of people say they lack connection with their coworkers. In addition, 63%of people who face mental health issues say it’s because they lack social connection and 57% say it’s because they feel isolated, according to the ResumeBuilder data. We need factual information to be effective, but we also need social information including who knows what, whom we can trust and who we can rely on for fresh, different perspectives; and this is the insight that comes from human interaction. Even as you’re using AI to optimize your effectiveness and efficiency, you can also ensure that you protect interactions and sustain relationships; which will improve your outcomes and your work experience and improve others’ work experiences as well.