TL;DR:
- Genpact COO shares insights on the impact of generative AI on jobs.
- Reskilling and adapting to new technologies are crucial to avoid job displacement.
- Staying current and deepening knowledge about new technologies is essential.
- Seizing the right opportunities to learn and grow is key to career advancement.
- Genpact values vocational training and subject-level expertise in freshers.
- Communication skills and proficiency in mathematics, physics, and applied statistics are important.
- Being self-driven and having a leadership mindset are sought-after qualities.
- Employees should continuously upskill themselves and be prepared for bigger roles.
- Focusing on creating a positive impact on the customer can lead to recognition and financial rewards.
Main AI News:
Debashis Sarkar, Editor at News18 Tech, interviews Shibu Nambiar, Chief Operating Officer for EMEA and Americas at Genpact, during London Tech Week 2023. The conversation revolves around the impact of generative AI on job roles and the skills required to stay ahead of the AI curve. Nambiar shares valuable insights on how employees can adapt and thrive in the face of AI advancements.
The discussion begins with addressing the concern of AI replacing jobs. Nambiar emphasizes that if individuals are prepared to reskill and adapt to the changing landscape, AI will not take away their jobs. He stresses the importance of staying current with technological advancements to avoid being caught off guard.
Nambiar explains that surface-level knowledge of new technology is not enough. Employees need to invest time in conducting in-depth analyses, such as understanding generative AI, to develop a plan for learning and professional growth. He also highlights the significance of seizing the right opportunities to work on relevant projects that facilitate further learning.
The conversation then shifts to the skills Genpact seeks in freshers who may not have graduated from premier institutes. Nambiar expresses his desire for a future where college degrees are not the sole criteria for hiring. Instead, he values vocational training and subject-level expertise, particularly in communication skills, mathematics, physics, and applied statistics. Nambiar emphasizes that these subjects will remain essential in the future, especially within the tech industry.
Regarding career progression, Nambiar advises individuals to be prepared and continuously upskill themselves. He emphasizes the importance of raising hands and seizing opportunities for growth, even if it involves traveling or relocation. Nambiar also looks for a leadership mindset and self-motivation in individuals from an early stage.
Finally, the discussion touches upon the frustration surrounding salary hikes in India. Nambiar suggests that employees should focus on creating a meaningful positive impact on the end customer, as they are the primary stakeholder. By delivering value to customers, employees increase their chances of recognition and, subsequently, financial rewards.
Conclusion:
The insights shared by Genpact’s COO highlight the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the face of AI advancements. By staying current with technology, deepening subject-level expertise, and embracing new opportunities, individuals can position themselves for success in the evolving job market. Moreover, the emphasis on communication skills and a customer-centric approach reflects the market’s growing demand for well-rounded professionals who can deliver value. The integration of AI in the workforce presents both challenges and opportunities, and individuals who proactively navigate these changes are likely to thrive in the future.
