How can AI help you improve efficiency at work?

Will AI replace our jobs?

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There’s no need to fear AI or think that it will replace our jobs, says Leanne, for at its core, AI is a tool designed to augment human intelligence and improve efficiency.

“AI is not going to rule our personal lives, corporate lives, or this country. That is not what AI is,” explains the tech entrepreneur. “AI is a tool built by humans, and as such, the extent of how good AI is, is the people who built it.”

Therefore, rather than viewing AI as a threat, we should embrace it as a resource in our professional journey.

Instead of fearing AI, use it as your “co-pilot”

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One of the key benefits of AI highlighted during the discussion was its ability to automate various processes. For example, Seow Khun shared that she uses AI as a productivity tool – whether it’s streamlining operations, increasing efficiency, or reducing human error in tasks such as emails.

She shares: “At Microsoft, we often say that AI is your co-pilot. It’s beside you, piloting with you – it’s not going to take over our lives. We’re still the pilot of our lives, and we’re the ones in control.”

The collaboration between humans and AI has the potential to optimise workflows and enhance overall productivity, she says. “Don’t be afraid [of AI]. Embrace, learn, and use it. That’s where we will all advance.”

Use AI to write your first drafts

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When it comes to using AI to increase productivity, Leanne shared a trick about using AI to work smarter: she uses ChatGPT to generate initial drafts for proposals. “In the past, as a team, it’d take us days to get a first draft going when it comes to proposals. Now, with ChatGPT, it takes seconds.”

The valuable AI tool helps to provide a foundation upon which her team can build and refine their work, says Leanne. By utilising AI in this way, the team can save time and effort, allowing them to focus on the intricate details and nuances that require human expertise.

How AI will give you the upper edge at work

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The importance of upskilling oneself in the age of AI was emphasised by our panellists, who stressed that this responsibility lies not only with young individuals but also with those returning to the workforce, such as mothers. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for maintaining relevance and seizing opportunities in a rapidly evolving job market.

“General Assembly’s motto is that you have to keep learning all the time,” says Sima. “Tech is constantly changing – and so, changing that mentality of ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘How can I learn?’ is a really big deal.”

The individuals who possess the knowledge and skills to effectively utilise AI in their professions are likely to have a competitive advantage. Understanding AI and its applications can open doors to new opportunities and allow individuals to adapt and thrive in a changing work landscape.