“The question of whether a computer can think is no more interesting than the question of whether a submarine can swim.”
- Edsger W. Dijkstra, computer scientist

Happy Thursday from Detroit! I'm here talking about summer travel tips on behalf of GM and Barclays on TV stations across America. They stood me in a beautiful metro park outside the city and I completed 25 interviews in about five hours. It was beyond fun...BUT the reason I'm leading with that is because I asked AI to help me prep for this onslaught. I asked Chat GPT to pretend that the AI was either the best interviewer ever, a mediocre one, or downright horrible, and to fire curveballs at me. Prepping for today's sessions was harder than actually completing the interviews, because AI had me so, so, so ready for ANYTHING. What's next for AI? Today we lean in to the possibility that maybe we can use IT more than some people think IT may be using US. - joe

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The 411 On AI:

77: Percent of people who are more concerned about AI replacing jobs than excited about the tech.
45: Percent of work tasks that could be automated using current AI technology.
68: Percent of businesses using AI who say it improved customer experience.
300: Million jobs worldwide which could be disrupted by generative AI.
23: Percent of small businesses in the U.S. that already use AI for content creation and marketing.
15: Percent of ChatGPT’s data collection compared to 90 percent for Meta’s AI tools.

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AI’s Coming for Your Job? How to Outwit the Robots (SB1699)

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AI’s Coming for Your Job? How to Outwit the Robots (SB1699):

Hey Stackers, Kevin here. After talking with the big boss about using AI to enhance the quality of our work as well as listening to Monday's episode, one thing is clear: AI is a helpful tool, but it’s NOT a human replacement. The real magic still lies with you...your judgment, your relationships, and your willingness to take action. Plus, as Joe told me in a recent one-on-one conversation, AI's work doesn't have a soul. With that in mind, let's dive deeper into how AI can enhance your career, productivity, and stack (and where it falls short). Oh, and how to protect your data.

Use AI to enhance your thinking, not replace it

AI is powerful, but it’s only as good as the input you give it. OG, in his infinite wisdom, reminded us to stay in charge of the decision-making.

Robots vs. wrestlers. (Shoutout to How I Met Your Mother). The human touch is still important, but it would be foolish to disregard AI as a valuable resource that can add value and make you more efficient. Check out this piece from Cambridge to learn how to enhance your critical thinking skills with AI-assisted technology (link).
Use AI to compliment your skillset (be specific). Use available AI tools to brainstorm new career paths, test drive side hustle ideas, or analyze work you've done for potential improvements; just don't rely on it to do everything for you. When using AI tools, be as specific as possible about what you want the tool to do for you. Learn 17 best practices to employ when using AI to enhance your productivity and creativity by reading this piece from Forbes (link).
Use your filter. AI-generated responses are only as good as the instructions you, fellow human, give it. Be specific AF and don't shy away from putting AI in its place when it gets out of line. Learn how to master the art of creating effective prompts for AI by reading this piece from MIT (link).
Call to action: Stackers, share your story! I'd love to see what works for you and what doesn't when using AI to enhance your productivity. Sound off in our Facebook group and use the hashtag #GiveKevinARaise so I know you saw this (link to Facebook group).

Protect your data

Something for nothing? Not likely. A recent ZDNET study reveals that an alarming percentage of popular platforms scrape your data. And it's probably not because they want to send you birthday cards every year.

"If you're not paying for the product, then you are the product."

- Tristan Harris, from the 2020 documentary film "The Social Dilemma

Read the fine print. ~~Our lawyers~~ Neighbor Doug made us say this. Make sure you understand the privacy policy before using AI (or any other) tools. Learn how to read privacy policies like a pro by reading this piece from LinkedIn (link).
Be proactive. Don't rely on bis businesses to do the right thing; proactively protect your data where possible. Learn 7 ways to keep your data safe(er) by reading this piece from Stanford University (link).
Don't forget about your credit profile. A hugely important collection of personal data is contained in your credit profile. Learn how to freeze your credit at all three bureaus by reading this piece from Experian (link).

Human relationships

All due respect to Brent Spiner (send feedback if you get the nerd reference. Use hashtag #JusticeForKevin in the Basement), technology can't replace the human touch. Cultivate relationships with others who add value to your life and to whose life you bring value.

Talk to real humans. And, no, I don't mean pressing zero to get out of the automated voice system when calling your bank. Try starting conversations with people you trust before relying on AI or social media for advice. Learn 8 ways you can improve your communication skills by reading this piece from Harvard University's Division of Continuing Education (link).
Build your tribe. While important, success isn't only about maximum output in minimal time; it's about building relationships with high quality people. Learn how to build success by surrounding yourself with the best people by reading this piece from Forbes (link).

You are the CEO of your life and career

Using AI and other technological tools is all well and good, but ultimately the responsibility for your actions falls on your shoulders, not on any algorithm.

Command your career. Take control of your career by regularly evaluating what you want, speaking up about your goals, and making intentional moves that align with your values and not someone else’s agenda. Learn how to become the CEO of your career by reading this piece from Forbes (link).
Take control your life. Learn how to become the CEO of your life by read this piece from Entrepreneur (link).

AI-proof your career

Joe, OG, and Doug talked extensively on the podcast about fields that aren't likely to be replaced by AI or robots any time soon. Let's add to this discussion by sharing ideas on how to adapt to use the AI wave to improve your earning potential.

Hands-on skills. Traditionally blue-collar professions aren't going anywhere for the foreseeable future (and you can earn a pretty Benjamin stack). Learn some of the highest-paying blue-collar jobs that are insulated from AI job stealing by reading this piece from US News & World Report (link).
Take advantage of free education opportunities. As Joe and Doug pointed out, continuing education isn't limited to institutions of higher learning that cost stacks of Benjis; you can find many courses through your local community college or online. Check out this piece from Indeed to learn about 16 free online certification courses to improve your skills (link).

Mom's takeaway

Oh honey, if you're sitting around waiting for AI to steal your job, you might as well hand it over now. Mom says the real threat isn’t the robots—it’s you not stepping up, learning new things, or asking the right questions. Don’t make her come down there and update your résumé for you.

Have a financial question?

Ask Joe and OG! If you're looking for expert advice, reach out to Joe and OG at 'Better Call Saul...Sehy & OG.' Simply visit THIS PAGE to leave us a voicemail.

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So what did we learn today, Stackers? AI’s not the job-stealing villain, but rather it’s just another tool in your toolkit, and it’s up to you how you use it. From embracing your role as CEO of your financial life to leveling up your skills (with or without tech), there’s plenty you can do to stay ahead. Be sure to keep listening and reading because things are changing quickly.

How do YOU use AI? Hit reply and let us know (or share this with a friend who's worried about AI).