The Power of Simulation

Many assume workplace simulation requires VR headsets and virtual offices, but they're missing the real breakthrough: the combination of large language models (LLMs) and remote work norms has already enabled us to simulate most modern workplace experiences.

Simulation Efficacy

The evidence supporting simulation training is compelling. Healthcare simulations cut medical errors by 74-85%. The aviation industry has long required flight simulators for pilot certification, proving their vital role in safety. PwC's study of VR training in corporate settings found that participants learned 4 times faster and demonstrated 275% greater confidence in applying their skills.

So why isn't simulation more widespread? Until recently, it was expensive, inflexible, and limited to physical skills. While we could simulate flying an aircraft, replicating the subtle dynamics of modern workplace interactions seemed out of reach.

From Training to Capability

Modern work is primarily conversational. Consider your most challenging workday. For most it involved navigating relationships, managing expectations, and handling conflicts rather than technical challenges.

Two developments have converged to enable effective workplace simulation. First, remote work has normalized digital interaction, making us comfortable with screen-based important conversations and eliminating the psychological barriers that once made simulations feel artificial.

Second, LLMs have solved the rigidity problem of earlier simulations. They can improvise naturally, maintain character consistency, and adapt to unexpected inputs while facilitating the structured reflection essential for learning.

Take a manager who struggles with feedback conversations. Instead of generic training workshops, simulation allows them to practice real conversations with an AI that responds authentically, showing defensiveness when challenged or withdrawal when approached poorly. They can experiment with different approaches, identify what works, and build confidence through practice.

This goes beyond traditional training, it develops real-world capability through hands-on practice.

The Cold Start Problem

As AI displaces routine entry-level work, we face what Dario Amodei describes as a potential elimination of "half of all entry-level white-collar jobs." This creates a challenging paradox: you need experience to get hired, but you need a job to gain experience. This problem isn't new, but AI has intensified it.

New graduates, despite their degrees, often struggle with workplace realities: challenging unrealistic deadlines, managing office politics, or handling difficult clients who pay the bills. We've normalized this learning curve, but it's inefficient.

Simulation offers a solution. Picture graduates who have already practiced challenging conversations, managed difficult stakeholders, and navigated team conflicts before their first day. They'd start work not just with knowledge, but with practical wisdom.

It's comparable to minor league baseball for knowledge work. As remaining jobs demand more sophisticated interpersonal skills, simulation can help people develop these abilities without costly real-world mistakes.

The same technology that might one day replace us can also enhance our capabilities. Ironically, strengthening our relationships and human interactions may be its greatest opportunity.

References

Quality Improvement in Medical Simulation - StatPearls. NCBI Bookshelf. (2023) - Healthcare simulation reducing infections by 74-85%

PwC Study: Understanding the Effectiveness of VR Soft Skills Training in the Enterprise. (2020) - VR training 4x faster completion and 275% confidence improvement

Amodei, D. Interview with Axios. (May 2025) - Quote on AI impact on entry-level white-collar jobs