How to Find the Perfect Job in Startups or MNCs in the AI Era

The issue students face when deciding between startups and MNCs persists, exacerbated by AI's inevitable disruption of sectors. Furthermore, education reforms have become apparent in light of changing social needs, growing difficulties, and the need to educate students with skills and knowledge adapted to the AI-driven future.

Given the growing importance of artificial intelligence, how can Gen Z students prepare to improve their prospects?

In today's AI-driven environment, Generation Z students have a forward-thinking outlook. They see AI as a positive force and recognise the importance of digital transformation. Individuals should look for educational programmes combining industry-focused, technology-enabled learning and real-world experience to prepare. Their enterprising attitude meshes nicely with the tech startup scene, making them ideal candidates for technology entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, Gen Z's dedication to sustainability and accessibility in technology is admirable. They advocate for ethical AI practices and cutting-edge solutions, paving the way for a peaceful digital future. According to a recent survey, 65% of Gen Z believe AI will play a significant role in numerous facets of human existence, with 33% expecting it to have a societal influence. Gen Z can capitalise on AI's promise by remaining informed, developing soft skills, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, thereby improving their prospects in an AI-driven world.

What is the best starting place for a student's career in startups or multinational corporations, and what elements should they consider?

Choosing the proper beginning point for your career, whether a vibrant startup or large organisation, is critical. It's more than just where you work; it's about determining the course of your professional career.

Startups are hotbeds of invention and transformation. They are looking for individuals who are more than just employees but visionaries eager to contribute to their growth. In the startup world, you'll experience a flurry of opportunities - one day, you'll be writing code, and the next, you'll be sailing the ship. It's an environment where learning happens quickly, and exposure is limitless. In contrast, international firms provide stability and well-established professional routes. While your experience may begin as a junior developer, there is a clear path to advancement. These companies offer ongoing learning opportunities and appreciation for your accomplishments.

When making this career-defining decision, consider work-life balance, organisational culture, personal growth trajectory, and compensation expectations. MNCs often require a certain degree of expertise, but startups welcome new viewpoints and various backgrounds.

Given the IMF's projection that India's economy will reach $5 trillion by 2026-27, which areas should student entrepreneurs target to use AI to promote economic growth?

As India prepares to exceed $5 trillion in economic output by 2026-27, student entrepreneurs can play a critical role in using the transformative power of AI to drive this growth. To reach a $5 trillion economy, the Indian government has prioritised technology-driven development. With AI, machine learning, and robotics taking centre stage, industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, are primed for innovation. AI provides chances to improve productivity and efficiency in various settings, including predictive maintenance in manufacturing and personalised healthcare solutions.

Furthermore, logistics and supply chain optimisation, consumer-focused AI goods, and education technologies show potential for industry upheaval. Narrow AI alters organisations and markets, while smart goods with AI capabilities, such as digital assistants, are gaining appeal with B2B and B2C customers. Open-source libraries, APIs, and SDKs are rapidly emerging trends in AI products.

In the journey to Industry 4.0, student entrepreneurs can help by inventing AI-driven solutions that meet changing customer wants, catalysing economic growth and technological evolution in India.

With AI altering the labour environment across industries, what disruptive trends or technologies do you believe will emerge next?

Given AI's revolutionary potential, the changing labour market is primed for further disruption via several significant trends and new technologies. First and foremost, the energy sector is being reshaped by the pressing need to transition to renewable energy sources and stricter emissions standards. Investment in sustainable infrastructure and transportation is growing, creating career possibilities in green technologies. Furthermore, promoting sustainable agriculture and increasing climate change awareness would boost employment in environmentally concerned companies.

The consumer-driven AI revolution heralds a new era of innovation and business model upheaval. Notably, this revolution is led by AI, machine learning, blockchain, the Internet of Things, and augmented reality. AI applications, such as digital assistants, medical image analysis tools, and text-generating language models, are becoming more ubiquitous, disrupting traditional work functions.

What would be your top two goals for reforming the school system if you were in charge of implementing changes?

Regarding school reform, the two most important tasks are incorporating AI-focused education into the curriculum and encouraging holistic skill development. The widespread support for AI-focused education emphasises the importance of preparing our youth for an AI-powered future. This means seamlessly integrating AI-related courses, bridging the academic-industry gap, and cultivating practical experiences to instill ethical technology participation.

Furthermore, given Generation Z's concerns about AI's possible disruption to traditional employment, it is critical to launch comprehensive skill development programs. These should include AI proficiency, mentorship programmes, and a harmonic balance between technological advancement and employment preservation. Programs like "AI for India 2.0" serve as excellent models, providing accessible AI training in various languages and allowing our youth to navigate a secure and prosperous future in the technological landscape.