Artificial intelligence is a tool that is always rapidly changing and evolving to meet our personal and professional needs. It has become an important aspect of how we live our lives, streamlining many otherwise tedious processes. However, without proper prompting, AI may be rendered useless. The process of determining how to command AI is called prompt engineering. Prompt engineering is the art and science behind structuring an instruction that a generative AI model can then interpret and follow. This process teaches users how to think, rewiring how we ask questions and generate commands to yield the best possible results from AI tools. Currently, over 80% of IT professionals believe that they can use AI. However, studies have shown that only 12% actually have the skills to perform prompt engineering effectively. This gap illustrates an ongoing need for AI prompt engineering training within the workplace.
The majority of leaders have admitted that AI skills are vital during the hiring process. In fact, 2 in 3 will not hire someone who does not possess these skills. Although many professionals know the basics of using AI, most lack the in-depth knowledge that is required to advance in their careers or respective field. For example, most desk workers do not know how to effectively use generative AI, how to get the most value from generative AI, or how to leverage trusted data sources while keeping their data secure. Artificial intelligence has been named as the largest factor in skill gaps in the workplace, and as many as 70% of modern workers around the globe need to upgrade their skills. Additionally, the current 50% hiring gap between AI jobs and AI job roles demonstrates just how much learning the “how” and “what” behind AI matters more than ever. Fortunately, there are several programs that are growing to teach AI literacy and educate professionals on how AI actually works.
Through these AI-specific certification programs, users are taught how to think, mastering the ins and outs of prompt engineering and the many ways that one can structure a prompt. In general, methods like chain-of-thought, least to most prompting, or non-text prompting are some of the most common ways to come to an effective AI prompt. However, when using images or video AI models can use negative prompting, textual inversion, and prompt injection to yield helpful results. These options may seem abundant and confusing, however, enrolling in one of these certification programs can help to streamline the learning process and prepare one for the demands of the future. Designed for reskilling, upskilling and cross-skilling, there is something available for all types of learners. Whether one is looking to improve their knowledge, or start fresh with a strong foundation of AI abilities, these online, skill-based certificates can be the ticket to taking one’s career to the next level.
Research is urging people to up their AI arsenal, with 72% of IT leaders believing that AI skill gaps must be urgently addressed. In order to foster the future of the AI revolution, professionals across industries must commit to learning and bettering themselves in the realm of artificial intelligence.