Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we work. In the previous article, we looked at how AI might affect different jobs and industries. While there are many views on how big this impact will be, most experts agree that AI will play a significant role in the future of work. But what can you do to prepare? In this article, we’ll look at some practical steps you can take to stay ahead, no matter where you are in your career.

 

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning

The world is changing fast, and AI is a big part of that change. To keep up, being open to learning new things throughout your career is essential. People who keep learning new skills will be best positioned to thrive as the job market evolves.

What can you do? Set aside time each week to learn something new. It could be taking an online course, listening to a podcast about AI (the Google Deepmind podcast, for example), or attending a workshop. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be for the changes AI brings. The easiest way to begin is by focusing on areas that interest you and could be helpful in your field of work.

 

2. Develop AI Literacy

AI literacy means understanding the basics of how AI works and how it can be used. You don’t need to be an expert, but knowing how AI can help you in your job can make a big difference. Free tools like ChatGPT or Gemini have become popular because they allow people to generate human-sounding text, answer questions, and predict trends. Understanding these tools will help you stay competitive.

Try using an AI tool for a task you do often. For example, you could use an AI assistant to help draft an email or summarise a document. Getting comfortable with these tools today will make it easier to adapt as more workplaces start using AI.

 

3. Upskill in Data and Technology

Many jobs, especially in finance, marketing, and healthcare, are starting to require a better understanding of data and technology. AI often works by processing vast amounts of data, so having some knowledge of data analysis can be a big advantage.

Consider taking a course in data analytics or technology basics. Even a beginner’s understanding of how data is used can help you stand out in the job market. Upskilling doesn’t have to be complicated—many online courses (or even YouTube videos) can help you get started at your own pace.

 

4. Build “Human” Skills

While AI is great at handling data and routine tasks, for the foreseeable future, it can’t replace human qualities like emotional intelligence (the ability to understand and manage emotions), creativity, or long-term planning. These “human” skills will become even more important in the future.

Focus on building your communication skills, creativity, leadership, and emotional intelligence. These are skills that AI can’t easily replicate, and they’re crucial for roles that involve teamwork, customer interaction, strategic thinking and so on. Keep an eye out for opportunities to practice these skills in your current job—for example, by leading a project or finding creative ways to solve problems.

 

5. Stay Adaptable

AI will change jobs, and today’s roles might look different in a few years, so staying adaptable and open to change is one of the best ways to prepare for this future.

Try to be open to taking on new tasks or learning new tools at work. The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities you’ll have. AI is here to help us work better, not just to replace jobs—so think of it as a tool you can use to grow in your career.

 

Preparing for an AI Future

There is little doubt that AI will continue to reshape the way we work, but as we’ve covered above, there’s a lot you can do to stay ahead. Embrace lifelong learning, develop your AI literacy, upskill in data and technology, focus on your human skills, and stay adaptable. By preparing now, you’ll be ready to thrive in tomorrow’s AI-enhanced world.

The future is full of opportunities for those who are willing to adapt. So our advice would be to start exploring AI tools, build new skills, and stay open to change—these steps will help you succeed as AI continues to evolve.