News | How-to
The relationship between AI and employment is complex, but is it possible to embrace AI and create a mutually beneficial dynamic, where AI enhances human work rather than replaces it?
For those of us in the creative community, there has been a lot of uncertainty about what AI means for our industry.
The Association for Illustrators recently launched a petition to protect illustrators' work against being mined by AI. Essentially, we needed to sign something to opt out of AI being able to take our work so we protect our most valuable assets as creatives.
While we may be tentative about using AI, we do know that its value lies in admin, streamlining business processes and making them more efficient.
So whichever industry you're in, here's our guide to working effectively with AI and embracing it for what it’s good for, to allow us to shine and create our best work as humans.
Understand AI’s role
Understand AI's role: AI excels at repetitive, data-heavy, and rule-based tasks. Humans still hold the edge in creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex problem-solving.
Collaborate with AI: Use AI to handle mundane tasks, allowing you to focus on higher-value work that requires human insight.
Enhance productivity: AI-powered tools like chatbots, data analysis software, and project management platforms can optimise your workflow, but don’t let it stifle innovation.
Knowledge Is Power
Learn AI basics: Understanding how AI works will make you more comfortable using it.
Develop Complementary Skills: Focus on areas where humans shine, like creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and strategic planning.
Knowledge is Power: Research AI and digital tools in your field so you are using them effectively.
Innovate and Create New Opportunities
Focus on new roles: Bringing AI into the workplace can create new jobs, such as AI trainers
Use your workforce: AI needs to be guided by workers, and they will know the ways to get the most out of it for your business. Work alongside each other so AI doesn’t replace roles entirely. It’s not a self-driving car yet.
When AI gets it wrong
AI bias: AI can be plagued by bias that creates uninclusive environments and judgements. Consider its ethical use and the potential spread of misinformation.
Fact check: If using AI chatbots such as Chatgpt - check, check and check again as the information pulled can be inconsistent and incorrect.
Use it as a starting point: AI can help but don’t rely on it to replace your own critical thinking and flair.
Foster A Growth Mindset
Adaptability is key: Be open to change and view AI as a partner that can help you grow.
Experiment with AI: Try different tools and approaches to see how AI can enhance your specific tasks and projects.
Learn from and empower others: Create an inclusive environment for all employees to be able to use AI through proper training and collaboration. This will reduce resistance and fear, or that feeling of being ‘left behind’.
Try to frame AI as an enabler rather than a competitor, and learn about developments in your industry so you’re ahead of the game and using the technology effectively. By working together harmoniously and educating ourselves, we can let AI do what it is useful for and allow ourselves time to focus on our uniquely human skills.
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