How to stay relevant (and hireable) in an AI world
Why you’re not behind, but you do need to adapt
This week, we’re doing something different.
There has been a lot of hype surrounding AI.
For years, it has been all talk about what it might do. However, we’re now seeing a shift.
It’s impacting who gets hired, how work is done, and which skills matter most.
We’re seeing companies utilise AI as part of their hiring process. More companies are investing in AI, and it’s about time you focus on it as well.
The good news?
You have access to the same tools as the companies do — even if you’re not working right now.
You’re not behind. But the playbook has changed.
Here’s how to stand out in this new world. Let’s dive in.
1. Orchestrate, Don’t Just Operate
Anyone can use ChatGPT now. That’s not the differentiator.
What matters is how you connect tools to solve problems.
Example:
Research a company using ChatGPT
Summarise a CEO podcast with Claude
Design a visual using Canva AI
Package it into a short pitch deck or Loom video
💡 This shows initiative and creativity. Share these kinds of projects — they make you memorable.
2. Show, Don’t Just Say
Telling people what you can do isn’t enough.
Show them what you have done — even if it’s a self-initiated project.
Build a quick prototype
Redesign a process using AI
Share a “before and after” story
Turn what you learn into a short case study
This applies to any role, not just creatives. The best candidates demonstrate value, not just describe it.
Have a look below and see what the top reasons are why companies are investing in AI. How can you fill this gap?
3. Think Hybrid
You don’t need to out-AI the AI.
You need to know when to use it — and when not to.
Example:
“I used AI to write 20 outreach drafts, but rewrote the top 3 to sound personal and on-brand.”
This is known as hybrid thinking, which combines the use of innovative technology and human judgement. Employers love it.
4. Strengthen Your Human Skills
AI is fast. But it can’t do this:
Build trust
Communicate clearly
Spot patterns and frame problems
Show resilience when things don’t go to plan
These are still the most valuable (and most complex to replace) skills. Don’t underestimate them.
5. Learn to Talk to AI
Prompting is the new literacy. Treat AI like a teammate:
Give context
Be specific
Use examples
Iterate
This helps at work and in your job search:
Prep for interviews
Draft outreach messages
Turn job specs into your pitch
BONUS: Use AI to build better connections
When you find a job you’re excited about, AI can help you connect with the right people:
Smart Search: Find hiring managers, recruiters, or team leads using AI-powered filters
Personalised Messages: Use AI to write genuine connection notes — ones that feel human, not robotic
Stay Visible: Use tools to track follow-ups, comment on posts, or find mutual contacts for intros
📌 Important: AI can support your networking. However, a genuine connection still comes from you. Let technology help — not replace — your human touch and always, always lead with value first.
Quick wins you can do this week
Use AI to audit your CV for a specific job
Share a mini-project showing how you used AI to save time or add value
Write a post explaining your process or decision-making
Practice prompting like you’re managing a junior analyst
Reach out to 3 people with AI-assisted but personal connection messages
Final Thought
You’re not behind.
The best way to stand out? Act like someone who’s already solving problems.
Blend tech with judgment. Communicate clearly. Lead with value in your Resume/CV and interviews.
That’s what gets noticed.
That’s what gets hired.
Thank you for being part of the Open To Work community. I’m excited to keep building this with you.
Do you have a question, want to share a success story, or need help with something? Just reply — I read every one.
Darren Bush
Founder, Get Hired Toolkit
gethiredtoolkit.com | LinkedIn |