The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has significantly impacted the way people work and the skills required in the modern workplace. While the use of AI is becoming more prevalent across various industries, there is still a significant portion of the population in the United States who do not utilize AI tools at work, according to a recent analysis by the Pew Research Center. However, for those who have embraced AI in their professional lives, the benefits are vast and transformative.
One of the key findings from a survey conducted with AI super users is that the majority of individuals who incorporate AI chat tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot into their daily workflow have experienced improvements in their work efficiency. In fact, 79% of respondents stated that AI chat tools have helped them work faster, while 72% reported that AI has enhanced their job significantly. These findings indicate that AI technology is not only beneficial for increasing productivity but also for streamlining processes and enhancing overall job performance.
To gain deeper insights into how AI is revolutionizing work performance, we spoke with five AI super users who have integrated AI tools into their professional routines. From creating lifelike video avatars to coaching for critical thinking and confidence, these individuals shared their experiences of how AI has helped them advance in their careers.
Ruth Favela, a Marketing Manager at Tomorrow.io, highlighted how she leverages AI to produce high-quality marketing content while competing with larger marketing teams. By using an AI video creator called HeyGen, Favela and her team are able to create lifelike video avatars of their Chief Marketing Officer, significantly reducing production time for marketing materials. This innovative approach not only saves time but also allows Tomorrow.io to focus on generating impactful content that resonates with their target audience.
Ryan Baum, an independent SaaS growth consultant, spoke about how he uses large language models (LLMs) to enhance his critical thinking skills and identify potential flaws in his ideas. Through a process he calls the “Devil’s Auditor,” Baum prompts an AI tool to analyze his ideas for logical gaps, biases, and ethical considerations, helping him refine his thought process and generate new ideas. By integrating AI into his workflow, Baum is able to push the boundaries of his creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Sierra Dowd, Founder and Principal Strategist at else&ever, shared how she uses AI to streamline the process of creating on-brand presentations. By providing ChatGPT with instructions on the goal, audience, slide count, and tone of a presentation, Dowd is able to generate Canva slide scripts automatically, saving hours of design work. This approach allows her to focus on the quality, clarity, and narrative of the presentation, resulting in more efficient and visually appealing deliverables.
Andrea Bonaiuto, head of product marketing at ATPCO, emphasized the importance of AI as a fundamental skill set for knowledge work. She described how she utilizes AI as a coaching tool to enhance critical thinking and confidence among her team members. By creating custom AI “coaches” using ChatGPT, Bonaiuto is able to provide her team with personalized guidance and support for various professional development activities, such as preparing for stakeholder meetings and 1:1 discussions. This approach allows her to scale coaching and critical thinking in a way that was not possible before, ultimately benefiting the growth and development of her team members.
In conclusion, the integration of AI technology into the workplace has proven to be a game-changer for many professionals across different industries. From improving work efficiency and productivity to enhancing critical thinking skills and streamlining processes, AI has become a fundamental tool for advancing careers and driving innovation. As AI continues to evolve and expand its capabilities, it is essential for individuals to embrace this technology and develop the necessary skills to thrive in the rapidly changing digital landscape.
