Updated On: 16 May, 2024 06:00 PM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha Ahire
Companies across various sectors are adopting AI rapidly. This is making AI skills a must among employees. Mid-day.com conversed with industry experts who suggest ways in which readers can equip themselves with AI skills and further boost their career growth

AI fundamentals allow applicants to remain competitive, adapt to industry trends, and contribute effectively to their organisation`s success in the digital age. Photo Courtesy: iStock
Be it to draft emails or generate images, the advent of Artificial Intelligence or AI has undoubtedly simplified most of our daily tasks. Today, one can make a presentation using AI, edit pictures using AI-enabled applications, or even create music with the help of AI tools.
Although the fear of job losses due to AI is still ripe, experts suggest joining hands with the technology to improve work efficiency and productivity. Most companies today encourage employees to develop AI skills and use them to their best potential. This has made it necessary for employees – freshers and experienced, to understand AI and equip themselves with relevant AI skills.
“Companies across sectors are adopting AI rapidly. Further, AI is transforming industries at a fast pace. It is only natural for employers to expect employees to understand, collaborate with, and benefit from AI tools,” says Sonia Kutty, senior vice president of people and Culture at Quest Global, an engineering services firm.
Adding to this, Ajay Yadav, co-founder of Simplified, an AI content creation startup, says, “Familiarity with AI is a big consideration for us in today’s day and age. AI is on the path of being an integral part of our lives. We are already starting to live in an AI-driven world. When hiring new employees, I do expect applicants to possess AI skills. It shows if they are ready to accept the new technology.”
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“As per the November 2023 report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, only 26 per cent of organisations in India are fully prepared for AI, and 95 per cent of organisations have a well-defined AI strategy. The report is a positive sign for the young generation of the country. With the Indian government and national and international private organisations investing money into the development and upkeep of the AI infrastructure, India is on the path of becoming one of the world leaders in the area,” shares Vinay Kumar, associate professor at Thapar School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology.
To understand the relevance of AI skills in one’s career and how employees and freshers can develop these skills, Mid-day.com conversed with industry experts and educators who share tips on how to stay relevant in the AI-driven world.
What are the top skills employers look for in applicants?
Saras Malik, chief people officer, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram states, ‘When considering job applicants, the top five skills, including AI and technological proficiency, that are prioritised are adaptability, critical thinking, communication, technical expertise, and creativity.”
Adaptability is necessary in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Critical thinking ensures problem-solving abilities, necessary for innovation. Effective communication fosters collaboration and clarity in conveying complex ideas.
Technical expertise, especially in AI and relevant technologies, is essential in many industries today. Lastly, creativity drives innovation and the ability to think innovatively, tackling new challenges and staying ahead in competitive markets.
These skills together allow people to thrive in dynamic work environments and contribute meaningfully to their teams and organisations.
Commenting on the relevance of AI skills, Malik stresses, “Possessing AI skills is increasingly important for job applicants due to the growing integration of AI technologies across various industries. AI skills enable individuals to leverage data-driven insights, automate processes, enhance decision-making, and develop innovative solutions. As AI continues to shape the future of work, job roles are evolving to require proficiency in AI tools, algorithms, and techniques. Whether in software development, marketing, finance, healthcare, or other fields, understanding AI fundamentals allows applicants to remain competitive, adapt to industry trends, and contribute effectively to their organisation`s success in the digital age.”
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