7 Ways to Protect Jobs & Build Rewarding Careers with genAI

Protecting Future Jobs and Building Rewarding Careers with genAI Technology: 7 Ways

A recent article from Computerworld discusses the importance of embracing genAI technology to protect future jobs and build rewarding careers. As the world of work faces a crossroads, IT professionals must choose whether to adopt generative AI (genAI) and learn new skills or stick to familiar technologies. However, in order to secure job stability in a rapidly changing world, understanding and utilizing genAI is crucial.

The Impact on Job Security and Economic Disparity

According to a global CEO survey conducted by PwC, it is estimated that by 2024, 25% of CEOs expect to reduce their workforce by at least 5% due to the implementation of genAI. This trend is supported by various reliable sources, indicating an impending economic disparity between workers with genAI skills and those without.

The Skill Premium

Employers are willing to pay a significant salary premium for employees with genAI skills. Surveys conducted by Access Partnership and Amazon Web Services (AWS) reveal that IT professionals with genAI expertise can earn an average of 47% more revenue. This trend extends beyond IT, as companies offer higher salaries to sales and marketing professionals (43% more), finance, legal, and regulatory personnel (42% more), compliance officers (37% more), and HR experts (35% more).

7 Ways to Protect Jobs and Utilize genAI

1. Evaluate the AI Environment:

Start by assessing your company’s AI environment. Determine whether genAI is already being utilized or if there are plans for its implementation. Consider whether your company offers genAI retraining programs. If your current employer does not embrace genAI, exploring opportunities with other employers may be an option.

2. Engage in Conversations with Superiors:

Even if it seems that your company is not actively promoting genAI, have personal conversations with your superiors. They may have insights into upcoming tests or retraining opportunities that have not been announced yet.

3. Explore Internal AI Reskilling:

Many forward-thinking organizations have initiated genAI projects and provide AI education for their employees to enhance their skills or undergo retraining. Take advantage of the internal training programs offered to gain experience with genAI.

4. Consider External Education:

While maintaining your current job, enroll in external education programs focused on genAI. Look for programs that cover topics such as large language models (LLM), prompt engineering, and genAI data training, and offer certifications. Practical programs that provide hands-on experience with various genAI tools can be particularly useful.

5. Utilize Self-Training Options:

If you have technical experience and the ability to self-train, you can learn genAI tools such as ChatGPT, Bard, and Co-pilot on your own. Search for documentation, user guides, or handbooks related to the genAI tools you want to learn. After completing your training, emphasize your newly acquired knowledge and experience in your resume and cover letter when applying for jobs.

6. Participate in Internal Projects:

If your company is currently working on genAI projects, consider participating, even in peripheral roles. Such involvement can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities as your company expands its enterprise AI initiatives.

7. Find Mentors:

Cultivate mentors within your company or through professional networks. Seek guidance on where to receive the best AI education and how to get involved in AI initiatives within your company. Mentors can provide valuable insights and recommendations to help advance your genAI career.

Securing the Future in the genAI Era

The emergence of generative AI presents both challenges and opportunities for workers. While there are concerns about AI replacing everyday tasks, the real threat lies in the lack of effective utilization of AI in the workplace. By proactively acquiring genAI skills, individuals can protect job stability, increase income potential, and create new career opportunities. Now is the time to take action, as the demand for AI-skilled professionals continues to rise.

Scott Finney, a freelance writer with extensive experience in the IT industry, emphasizes the importance of embracing genAI and staying ahead of the times.

© 2024 IDG Communications, Inc.