In the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, the ability to ask insightful questions is emerging as a critical skill. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, highlights this transformative shift, emphasizing that asking great questions, whether in conversation or when designing AI chatbot prompts, is becoming more valuable than merely possessing knowledge. As AI continues to advance, prompt engineers — individuals skilled in crafting effective prompts for AI systems — are seeing increased demand, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually.
Altman's insights underscore a shift in what is valued in the workplace. While AI may assume many administrative tasks, it is unlikely to replace human intellect. Instead, it redefines the skills necessary to excel. He predicts a new methodology for tackling complex problems will emerge, driven by curiosity, adaptability, and mental agility — skills young people must cultivate to secure future employment. These abilities are also championed by entrepreneur Mark Cuban, who acknowledges their importance but remains uncertain about AI's broader impact on the job market.
Understanding how to ask thought-provoking questions is crucial in this new era. Altman asserts that "figuring out what questions to ask will be more important than figuring out the answer." This skill not only demonstrates empathy and credibility but also provides a strategic advantage in synthesizing information and recognizing patterns, as noted by expert Grant:
"If you can synthesize and recognize patterns, you have an edge." – Grant
The importance of adaptability is echoed by employers and recruiters who prioritize candidates capable of adjusting to changing circumstances. A LinkedIn blog post recently emphasized this trait, highlighting its growing relevance in job applicants.
In response to these shifts, educational resources are adapting as well. A new online course titled "How to Use AI to Be More Successful at Work" offers guidance on leveraging AI tools effectively. The course provides an introductory discount of 30% off through February 11, 2025, using the coupon code EARLYBIRD.
"We used to put a premium on how much knowledge you had collected in your brain, and if you were a fact collector, that made you smart and respected," – Grant
Altman's reflections illustrate a broader transformation in professional satisfaction and success:
"I have certainly gotten the greatest professional joy from having to really creatively reason through a problem and figure out an answer that no one's figured out before," – Altman