I'm a career coach. If you don't mention AI in job interviews, you're making a huge mistake.

In today’s ever-evolving job market, understanding how to collaborate with artificial intelligence is becoming essential for job seekers. During interviews, candidates are increasingly being asked about their experience with AI and how they utilize it in their roles. Failing to address this topic can put job applicants at a disadvantage. Gabriela Flax, a career coach based in Sydney, emphasizes the importance of integrating AI discussions into interview conversations. Many candidates worry that mentioning AI might portray them as lazy or reliant on technology, but Flax argues that effectively communicating your use of AI can actually highlight your adaptability and forward-thinking approach. Flax suggests three key strategies for discussing AI during interviews. For instance, if you're a skilled copywriter, you could illustrate how AI tools like ChatGPT enhance your writing process. By uploading previous work to these platforms, you can receive tailored content ideas or outlines, but it's crucial to remain vigilant about accuracy and quality. This approach demonstrates your commitment to excellence while leveraging technology. For those in analytical positions, AI can significantly streamline data processing, allowing you to focus on interpreting insights. By sharing this with potential employers, you convey that you're not only proficient in your field but that you also leverage AI to boost your effectiveness. Flax encourages candidates to identify repetitive tasks in their workflow that can be automated using AI, such as scheduling or drafting documents. By sharing how these tools free up time for essential human skills—like empathy and strategic thinking—you position yourself as a candidate who enhances team productivity. Moreover, she introduces the concept of 'vibe coding,' which allows you to interact verbally with AI to create automated systems that can handle specific job tasks. For instance, a growth marketer could develop a ChatGPT tool to summarize campaign metrics and send updates to the team, effectively acting as a tireless assistant. During interviews, candidates should approach the conversation as collaborative problem-solving rather than a traditional Q&A. Familiarizing yourself with the company’s current challenges can help you propose AI-based solutions that demonstrate initiative and teamwork. Finally, staying informed about the latest AI developments in your industry is crucial. Flax advises candidates to share resources they follow to keep up with AI trends, showcasing their commitment to continuous learning in a rapidly changing landscape. Ultimately, the key to a successful interview lies in being proactive and demonstrating how you can use AI to not only advance your career but also contribute to the team’s success.