Last summer, I asked ChatGPT, a natural language AI-driven technology, to write a love letter in Pataois. In less than three seconds it spits out a relatively authentic rendering which included this line: ‘Yuh sweet like mango inna summertime, and mi can’t help but smile when yuh deh pon mi mind.’ My Jamaican aunties got a kick out of that one.
More importantly, let’s talk about how this technology has the power to radically change how we engage in our careers. With the rise of generative AI technology, it will completely revolutionize the way we work. As Black women at the cusp of redefining our careers by rejecting toxic workplaces and capitalistic norms so that we can embrace a new way forward, there are a few things I want us to know to stay empowered.
But first some juicy data.
In 2017, when 1,500 senior business leaders in the United States were asked about AI, only 17 percent said they were familiar with it. Fast forward to April of last year, according to McKinsey’s State of AI report, nearly 25 percent of C-suite executives say they use gen AI tools for work, and 40 percent of respondents say their organizations will increase their investment in AI overall because of its advances. Long before 2023, Black women leaders in the tech space have been actively engaged in AI work, producing research and advocating for policies that emphasize the necessity of civil and human rights protections, enhanced data quality, and the legal compliance of AI and other emerging technologies. Initiatives such as Black Girls CODE, Digital Undivided, and ChatBlackGPT founder Erin Reddick have played a significant role in promoting tech and AI literacy, empowering Black women to leverage these tools for career advancement.
So how can we best use AI technology when seeking new careers or advancing in our current ones? If you are at a career crossroads and you’re mapping out what’s the next best step based on your experience and qualifications, here are the GPT prompts I recommend based on the four Career-to-Purpose pillars.
Dream Discovery
At this stage, you’re defining what you want your career trajectory over the next 3-5 years to look like. These GPT prompts will ensure you’re not just checking a career box, but identifying your values and what is important to you.
Help me write a mission statement that aligns with my professional ambitions and personal values. What questions should I ask myself to ensure it's reflective of the work I want to do?
Considering my interests and skills in [X, Y, and Z], which industries are currently growing, and how can I position myself to be a valuable candidate in these areas?
Can you suggest exercises to help me visualize the work I find most fulfilling and how this aligns with my long-term career and entrepreneurship goals?
Dream Building
This phase allows you to identify the specific actions you need to take according to your personal and professional career goals. You know yourself best so drilling down into your preferences and even personality traits gives a more personalized response. Here are some GPT prompts that will help you narrow in on your focus.
How can I optimize my Resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect my unique strengths and stand out to potential clients or recruiters?
What are some key strategies for building a personal or business website that effectively communicates my brand?
Can you recommend ways to improve my professional networking, especially as an introvert?
What are some self-care practices to manage the stress of job searching and minimize overwhelm?
Breaking Down Inner Barriers
Many of us have been doing the work in therapy and other modalities to unlearn the deeply negative thought patterns that stifle our confidence. I strongly believe that leaning on professional help, therapy, community care, and other forms of human-to-human interactions still are the best supportive resources. Using these prompts can serve as collaborative tools to incorporate into your therapy, coaching or mentoring sessions.
What exercises can I do together with my therapist that will help identify the roots of my inner barriers, particularly as they relate to my identity as a Black woman, and how can we track progress over time?
I often struggle with [challenge 1] and [challenge 2]. What are some affirmations or meditation practices that can help me combat feelings of imposter syndrome?
What forum or group activities can I initiate with my community that focuses on sharing and overcoming professional challenges as Black women, including tackling imposter syndrome and fear of failure?
Dreaming-to-Doing
Mapping out your timeline to move towards your goals should feel easeful and allow you to focus on the most important tasks while maintaining your sanity and minimizing overwhelm. Here are some GPT prompts to get you started.
How can I break down my main career goal into a 90-day action plan with clear, manageable tasks?
What are some strategies for scheduling tasks and setting realistic deadlines that align with my overall goals for wellness?
How can I incorporate wellness breaks into my schedule to ensure I'm not overwhelmed while pursuing my 90-day plan?
I want to highlight that AI is only as inclusive and culturally sensitive as its programmers so the responses it provides can be heavily skewed and biased. We must advocate for equitable representation to prevent algorithmic bias and exploitation.
Forging Ahead
While AI can be a powerful ally, it will never take the place of human interaction and empathy. We must complement it with human insights and intuition. Building relationships with mentors, networking in person, and staying attuned to one’s own goals and values should always be centered.
AI technology is not without its pitfalls and again, we must push for more inclusive AI, ensuring that the future of work is equitable and empowering for all. While there is still more work to correct this, right now, as Black women poised to make a career transition or explore new avenues, AI offers a toolkit of endless possibilities.
Over to you. How are you using ChatGPT to inform your career strategy? What are some questions about AI you are curious to explore? Let us know in the comments!
PS: My book Dreaming on Purpose comes out in Summer 2024. To support my work as a new author, consider becoming a premium subscriber and join the Dreaming & Doing community!