Rana El Kaliouby is one of the foremost experts in how artificial intelligence can benefit from emotional intelligence. At Affectiva, she works at the intersection of psychology and AI. In her view, AI and technology in general can’t help people if they don’t take emotions into account.
But at the start of the pandemic, El Kaliouby noticed certain failings of humanity within her company. Forced into nonstop Zoom meetings, she and her co-workers and employees did not take enough time for themselves. In fact, they increasingly pushed aside important aspects of life – like family time or laundry. So, she implemented policies to help change this. She blocked off more time for herself and her family, and encouraged others to do the same. According to her, the change has improved the company culture immensely.
“These are challenging times for everyone,” El Kaliouby says. “And it is now, more than ever, the time to lead from your heart with grace and empathy.”
Read more about Rana El Kaliouby:
“Girl Decoded”: Rana el Kaliouby’s Memoir of Technology and Emotion
