As someone who has worked in corporate purchasing for several years, I’ll admit that the thought of Artificial Intelligence taking over my job was a bit horrifying. But instead of sprinting away in terror, I decided to take the bull by the horns and adapt to the AI trend.
At first, I tried to make friends with a robot and encourage it to do my work for me. It turns out that robots aren’t great at negotiating with suppliers (saying “I am Your Master”) or tracking down inventory issues by scanning shelves terminator fashion.
I also think if a Terminator robot oversaw corporate purchasing, they’d negotiate discounts so aggressively, suppliers would be begging for mercy and offering to throw in free oil changes for life.
On to Plan B.
Next, I decided to take a more proactive approach and learn new skills and technologies that are in high demand in the age of AI. Through my employers I took courses in Data Science, SAP Value Engineering, SAP Supply Chain Modules, IBM Cognitive Computing, Accelerated Data Optimization, Machine Learning, and limited Computer Programming, and even attempted to learn how to speak binary (I didn’t get very far). 111001010111…. Ha Ha.
But I soon realized that it wasn’t about technical skills. To truly thrive in a world dominated by AI, I had to focus on developing essential human traits that robot overlords can’t replicate. I worked on improving my collaboration skills, emotional intelligence, and empathy, all while trying not to accidentally short-circuit any robots and computers with my newfound charm.
Once upon a time, in a not-so-distant past, I also decided to take a 12-week Dale Carnegie public speaking course to improve my communication skills.
One task that I’ll never forget was when we had to act out a television commercial and then run through the class hooting like a gorilla. Yes, you read that right. Hooting like a gorilla.
So, I put on my best acting face and dove headfirst into the task. I acted out the commercial with all my heart, and then I ran around the class hooting like a gorilla. I could feel the eyes of my classmates on me, but surprisingly, I wasn’t embarrassed. In fact, I felt like I had just conquered a small part of my public speaking fears.
Looking back, that 12-week Dale Carnegie course was one of the best decisions I ever made. It not only helped me improve my communication skills, but it also gave me the confidence to take on new challenges and get out of my comfort zone, even if it meant hooting like a gorilla in front of a group of strangers.
And who knows, one day I’ll have to act out a commercial or hoot like a gorilla in front of an AI robot. If that day comes, I’ll be ready.
In the end, adapting to the AI trend has been a journey of growth and self-discovery. And while I may not be the most technologically brilliant person in the room, at least I know how to turn on the computer and make it look like I’m doing something important.
I’m confident that my diverse skill set, and human traits will help me stay relevant and competitive in the ever-evolving business world. Plus, if all else fails, I’ll just go into the sex robot-repair business. I hear that’s going to be in high demand soon.
In all seriousness, by developing essential education, career, and human traits, students and employees can position themselves to thrive in a world where AI is increasingly prevalent. This includes adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn and adapt to innovative technologies.
Terry Vermeylen, President of Terry Vermeylen Enterprises, may not have been the most technologically brilliant person in the room, but he sure knows how to optimize a business process using IT like nobody’s business. When AI came knocking, he didn’t run, he just got up and dusted himself off, and showed those robots who was boss.