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How can we train our staff to use Microsoft Copilot effectively – without overwhelming them?

Microsoft Copilot has the potential to transform how your teams work – but only if it’s introduced the right way. That means starting with clean, well-organised data, identifying quick wins for each team, and giving people hands-on experience early. With the right approach, you can build confidence, avoid overwhelm, and make AI a natural part of everyday work.

Start with your data

Before introducing any AI tools, it’s worth taking a step back and looking at your data. AI systems like Microsoft Copilot rely on being able to access and interpret the right information – and that only works if your data is well-organised and appropriately protected.

That’s why we suggest beginning with a Discover & Protect phase. This involves reviewing where your data lives, how it’s used, who has access, and what needs to be labelled or protected. It’s not about locking everything down – it’s about making sure when people use Copilot that they get the right information back, and that sensitive content is handled properly. 

Focus on quick wins

Copilot’s value becomes clear when it solves real problems quickly. That’s why it’s important to start with use cases that are simple, repeatable, and clearly beneficial. For some teams, that might mean speeding up reporting. For others, it could be drafting emails or summarising meetings. The key is to find those everyday tasks where Copilot can save time or improve quality – and use those as your launchpad.

By showing early success in specific areas, you build trust in the tool and create momentum for wider adoption.

Move quickly from theory to practice

The aim is to go as quickly as possible from not knowing the tool to getting value out of it.  At Doherty Associates, we use two short, intensive sessions to help our clients get started as quickly as possible – first showing, then doing:

1. Art of the Possible: This session introduces Copilot and shows how it works across Microsoft 365 – Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and more. It’s interactive, and tailored to your firm’s context, so people can see how it might apply to their day-to-day work.
2. Build the Plan: This is more hands-on. We take real scenarios – like preparing an investor update or reviewing pack from a prospect – and walk through how Copilot can help. The goal is to leave with a clear, practical plan for adoption.

Empower early adopters

Some people will take to AI quickly. Others will need more time. Identify your early adopters – the ones who are curious and willing to experiment – and give them space to lead. They’ll help bring others along.

At the same time, keep an eye on usage. Celebrate what’s working, but also give additional personal assistance where things aren’t working – everyone works in a slightly different way and small tweaks to prompts or data can make a big difference.

Make AI Part of the Routine

The long-term goal is to make AI a normal part of how people work – not something they turn to only when they’re stuck. That takes time, but it starts with building confidence and showing that the tools are reliable and genuinely helpful.

Need help optimising Copilot for your organisation?
Get in touch to arrange a discovery call:  How to Contact us | Doherty Associates

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