Dear Mike:

AI seems to be everywhere these days. It’s all over the news, showing up in the tools we use at work, and even popping up in conversations around the office. People keep referencing how transformative it is, and I see articles and headlines about it every time I open a publication.

That said, I’m not sure where I stand.

Do I need to invest time in learning AI to stay competitive in my role? Is this something everyone needs to dive into, or is it more relevant to certain industries or job types?

Thanks,

Marcy

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Hi Marcy,

AI is undoubtedly changing the way we work, and your question gets right to the heart of what many professionals across all industries and levels are wondering.

The reality is, believe the hype as AI proficiency is becoming increasingly important. However it’s less about technical expertise and more about knowing how to use it to enhance your work.

And here’s the best part: age, background, or whether you consider yourself “tech-savvy” doesn’t matter. Whether you’re 5 or 50, AI is accessible to anyone willing to learn.

One of the great things about AI is how intuitive it’s becoming. Tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Office’s AI features, or AI-powered analytics platforms are designed to be approachable.

You don’t need to know how AI works under the hood; you just need to explore how it can help you work smarter. This is true whether you’re a student using AI to complete a homework assignment or a seasoned professional streamlining a report.

The core skill is curiosity, not technical ability.

Whatever your role, AI can be a force multiplier, helping you save time, make better decisions, or solve problems creatively. It can automate repetitive tasks like scheduling or data entry, provide insights by analyzing trends, or assist with brainstorming and content creation.

The key isn’t becoming a technical expert, it’s learning to collaborate with AI as a partner in your work.

The best way to start is by focusing on tools relevant to your daily tasks. If you write reports, try using AI to summarize or draft content. If you analyze data, explore tools that surface trends or automate calculations.

Start small, experiment, and see where AI can complement your strengths.

AI is leveling the playing field. It doesn’t care about your age, your background, or your aptitude. What matters is your openness to learn and adapt. By engaging with AI now, at your own pace, you’ll position yourself to stay competitive and thrive as the technology continues to evolve.

In short – the hype is real and everyone should be looking for ways to incorporate this into your daily workflow.

Hope this helps!

Mike

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TNCR Community – what advice would you add to this thread? Do you have a perspective that you can share? Have a career question for Mike? Email him directly at mike.burgett@burgateglobal.com