I'm a senior PM at Microsoft and a self-proclaimed early adopter of AI. Here are the easy ways it helps me at work and in my personal life.

In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, proficiency in artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming essential for professionals, especially for project managers (PMs). Rishab Jolly, a senior PM at Microsoft, exemplifies this trend, leveraging AI to enhance both his work efficiency and personal interests. Jolly's career at Microsoft began in 2017 after relocating to the U.S. for his MBA. With a background in computer science and experience as a software engineer, he has embraced AI tools to streamline his workload. In his role, he develops product ideas and collaborates across various teams to ensure successful project delivery. As AI has become more integrated into everyday tasks, he has eagerly adopted these innovations to optimize his workflow. One of the key ways AI supports Jolly is through automation of mundane tasks. Previously, he spent considerable time taking notes during meetings, but now he utilizes AI-driven tools for this purpose. This shift has allowed him to redirect his focus toward strategic planning and prioritization, essential elements of effective project management. In his position, Jolly often drafts documents that clarify objectives for engineering teams. AI assists him in creating initial drafts quickly, which he then reviews and refines, ensuring they meet the necessary standards before distribution. While he uses Microsoft’s AI tools at work, he also experiments with various applications like ChatGPT and Gemini in his personal life. Outside of work, Jolly co-hosts a podcast called "Curious Souls," where he explores themes related to product management, AI, and wellness. The podcasting process, which once required extensive research and planning, has been streamlined through AI. By leveraging large language models (LLMs) to identify trending topics and generate scripts, Jolly has significantly reduced the time spent on preparation. This efficiency allows him to invest more time in editing and family activities. However, he emphasizes the importance of verifying AI-generated content, as inaccuracies can occur. This experience has made him more discerning about when to rely on AI versus human judgment. He advocates for experimenting with AI in low-stakes environments, such as personal projects, before applying those insights to professional scenarios. Looking ahead, Jolly believes that familiarity with AI will be a critical skill for PMs, enhancing their ability to solve customer problems. While AI can provide valuable insights and suggestions, he stresses that the fundamental role of empathy and human decision-making in project management will remain unchanged. He encourages fellow PMs to embrace AI and explore its capabilities, stating that the earlier one begins, the greater the benefits will be. Rishab Jolly's journey reflects a broader shift in the tech industry, where integrating AI is no longer optional but a vital strategy for success in both professional and personal realms.