An AI strategist fired half her AI agents after becoming a 'botsitter'

In a surprising turn of events, Sol Rashidi, an AI strategist and chief strategy officer at data security firm Cyera, revealed that her efforts to utilize AI agents for efficiency resulted in an unexpected workload increase. Rashidi shared with Business Insider that she recently dismissed half of her AI agents due to their unreliability. Instead of alleviating her busy schedule, these virtual assistants demanded constant oversight, transforming her role into that of a 'botsitter.' Rashidi initially operated four AI agents simultaneously but found herself spending more time supervising them than engaging in productive work. This scenario is not unique to her; a recent report by Glean identified a growing trend of workers dedicating significant hours each week to managing AI agents, often referred to as 'botsitters.' The report indicated that white-collar employees typically invest around 6.4 hours weekly on this task, which amounts to nearly a full workday. While various corporations, including Microsoft, are exploring the integration of AI agents into their workflows, many entrepreneurs are already leveraging these technologies in their businesses. However, Rashidi's experience highlights a critical disconnect between the expectations surrounding AI and its real-world applications. She believes there's a tendency to over-glamorize these agents without recognizing their limitations. "Yes, it's amazing, but there's a place and time for everything," she remarked, stressing the importance of discernment in AI deployment. This situation reflects a larger issue known as the 'productivity paradox,' where the anticipated efficiency gains from AI do not always translate into improved business performance. The Glean report suggests that a significant portion of potential productivity is being consumed by the demands of botsitting. In response, Rashidi has opted to hire human virtual assistants to manage some tasks, stating, "I don't have the time to babysit agents and keep course correcting the context." Her experience serves as a reminder that leaders should approach automation with caution. Rashidi emphasized that judgment and critical thinking are essential for effective management. She cautioned against the mindset of automating for its own sake, urging leaders to consider whether the costs of automation truly outweigh the benefits.