Can Generative AI Actually Advance Your Career?

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Many people immediately react with fear that their job will be replaced and they will become obsolete. However, in reality, AI presents an opportunity for us to reclaim our time without sacrificing productivity. AI allows us to streamline our work processes and accomplish tasks more efficiently.

Nevertheless, it is crucial for us to be mindful of how we utilize this newfound time. While it may be tempting to take on additional strategic tasks or expand our responsibilities, we must also recognize the need to restore balance in our lives. The demands placed on employees in the corporate world, including accounting and beyond, have reached unsustainable levels.

We have grown accustomed to this high-pressure environment, considering it the norm. But I challenge you to question this status quo. Why should we continue down this path if we are only going to become further entrenched in the demands of work?

Instead, I propose that we leverage AI to handle repetitive, predictable, and time-consuming tasks. Once these tasks are automated, we should resist the urge to fill our extra time with more work. Perhaps it is time to learn to say no to additional responsibilities or establish clearer boundaries regarding our responsibilities and compensation. Alternatively, we may simply need to reconnect with hobbies that have been neglected due to work.

In any case, I encourage you to step back, assess your workload, and identify what is missing in your life, be it work-related or personal. Gradually shift your mindset to embrace a more efficient and effective way of working, all while still enjoying your job and overall life satisfaction.

For instance, consider how much time you spend on spreadsheets, deciphering formulas, and repeatedly writing conclusions. There are tools available that can enhance your Excel proficiency without requiring a super user certification. Take a look at this resource; I assure you it will save you time and headaches (https://formulabot.com/). 


In addition to saving time, incorporating generative AI into your work can also enhance your career. According to a KPMG survey titled "Generative AI: From buzz to business value," top leaders believe that generative AI will have the greatest impact on their businesses compared to other emerging technologies, with 77% of respondents expecting a significant influence. The areas where generative AI is expected to be explored the most are IT/Tech and operations. Interestingly, accounting and finance, which encompass systems and processes risk, may be the department most affected by the adoption of generative AI. However, there are several barriers to implementation, including the lack of skilled talent, the cost or lack of investment, and the absence of a clear business case.


This presents an opportunity for accounting and finance professionals to advance their careers by integrating generative AI into their work. The Harvard Business Review article titled "5 Ways to Future Proof Your Career in the Age of AI" provides valuable insights on how to successfully incorporate these tools.


It's up to you to either embrace technology and advance your career or remain fearful of what you cannot control.

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