AI is moving quickly, but behind the headlines around new models, investment and emerging technology, there are bigger conversations happening around how businesses are actually using it, the people they need to build it and how it could change the way we work.
We sat down with Grace, one of our recruitment consultants specialising in AI, to get her perspective on the market, what she’s seeing from a hiring perspective and what she’s learned since working in the space.
Where do you think AI is creating the most value today?
I think the biggest value is in giving people time back. Taking away repetitive work, helping people make decisions quicker and allowing teams to get more done without constantly adding headcount. The best use of AI isn’t replacing people, it’s making good people much more effective.
What’s one thing AI won’t replace, no matter how advanced it becomes?
Human relationships. AI can make communication easier and give you more information, but trust, judgement and genuine relationships are still human. Especially in recruitment and sales, people want to work with people they trust.
What’s the biggest hiring challenge AI companies are facing today?
Finding people who have actually built things, rather than just worked around AI. There are a lot more people with “AI” on their profile now, but the genuinely strong people who have built models, products or systems from the early stages are still very hard to find – and every good company is competing for the same talent.
What attracted you to the AI market?
The pace of it. There is constantly something new happening, new companies being built and new problems being solved. From a recruitment point of view, I also like that I’m speaking to people who are building things that could look completely different again in a year.
What’s one thing you’ve changed your mind about since working in AI?
I used to think the biggest companies would naturally have the biggest advantage because they have the money, data and talent. Working in the market has made me realise how quickly a small team of really strong people can build something that challenges much bigger companies.
What do you think people are worrying about too much when it comes to AI?
That AI is just going to take everyone’s jobs. I think most roles will change before they disappear. The bigger risk is probably not AI replacing you, but someone who knows how to use AI being able to work much faster than someone who doesn’t
AI is changing quickly, and so are the skills, experience and people companies need to build within it.
What comes through from Grace’s answers is that while the technology will continue to develop, the human side still matters. Companies need people who can genuinely build, adapt as the technology changes and understand how to use AI effectively.
As the market continues to develop, those skills are only likely to become more important.
