January 6, 2025

Is AGI Coming? Absolutely. Here’s How Organizations Can Prepare

As published in

Robot thinking about AGI

As an AI keynote speaker, I’m often asked whether Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is just hype or an inevitable reality. My answer is simple: AGI is coming, but what it will look like and when it will arrive are open questions. What isn’t up for debate, however, is the seismic impact AGI will have on the future of work.

I believe AGI will fundamentally reshape organizations, industries, and careers in ways we’re only beginning to imagine. And while it’s tempting to dismiss AGI as a distant challenge, the truth is that preparation starts today. Drawing from my experience helping organizations harness AI for innovation and transformation, I want to share three practical pieces of advice for preparing your organization for an AGI-powered future.

1. Invest in Building a Culture of Adaptability

I’ve seen firsthand how organizations that embrace change thrive in the face of disruption. AGI will demand an unparalleled level of flexibility, requiring businesses to pivot quickly as new opportunities and challenges emerge. But adaptability isn’t just about technology—it starts with people.

I advise organizations to foster a culture where employees feel empowered to innovate, experiment, and learn continuously. Encourage cross-functional collaboration, flatten hierarchies, and reward creative problem-solving. By doing so, you’ll prepare your workforce to navigate the uncertainties of AGI with confidence.

2. Begin Integrating Narrow AI Today

While AGI remains on the horizon, narrow AI is already here, transforming industries from healthcare to finance. I encourage leaders to think of today’s AI tools as a stepping stone to AGI readiness. Implementing AI in areas like process automation, customer service, and data analysis not only drives immediate business value but also helps your organization develop the technical and strategic expertise needed for AGI.

Start small, focusing on high-impact use cases. As your organization gains experience with AI, you’ll build the infrastructure and insights necessary to integrate AGI effectively when it arrives.

3. Prioritize AI Ethics and Governance Now

I believe that the organizations best positioned for the AGI era will be those that prioritize ethical AI development and governance from the outset. The potential risks of AGI—bias, misuse, and lack of transparency—are magnified compared to today’s AI systems. Addressing these challenges proactively is not just a moral imperative; it’s a business necessity.

Establish clear AI governance policies and ensure that ethical considerations are embedded in every stage of AI implementation. Train your teams to recognize and mitigate biases, and create accountability structures that build trust with customers, employees, and stakeholders. By doing this now, you’ll set the stage for responsible AGI adoption in the future.

The Road Ahead

I believe AGI will fundamentally change how we define work, value human contributions, and drive innovation. While the specifics remain uncertain, the opportunity to prepare is already in your hands. By building adaptability, leveraging narrow AI, and embedding ethics into your AI strategy, you can lead your organization into the AGI era with confidence.

The future isn’t waiting. Let’s get ready for what’s next—together.

Transform your organization today.

Book Alex for your next keynote or workshop to unlock the future of AI-driven innovation and culture change.

Photo of Alex Goryachev on stagePortrait of Alex Goryachev with a blue background

Tap into the expertise of the former GM of Cisco's Global Innovation Centers—now one of the most sought-after speakers on AI and innovation—to inspire and transform your organization.

  • Alex is hands-on with AI and led innovation strategy across 14 countries, driving double-digit growth through AI-powered solutions.

  • Over 20 years of hands-on experience driving transformative business and technology solutions for global brands like Dell, Amgen, IBM, Pfizer, and Cisco.

  • Recognized by Forbes as “One of the World’s Top Experts on Innovation” and named a “Top AI Keynote Speaker to Watch.”

  • A frequent contributor to Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Fast Company, sharing actionable insights on the AI strategy, future of work, and innovation.

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