Artificial Intelligence Set to Facilitate Side Jobs and Start-ups, Asserts Airbnb CEO 

Despite predictions of artificial intelligence ( AI) causing a loss of jobs and disruption in the labor market in the future, Brian Chesky, the CEO of Airbnb, has expressed his belief that AI will, in fact, generate more employment opportunities, particularly within the realm of entrepreneurship.

Prominent figures in the tech industry, such as billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, have expressed their apprehension about the potential for artificial intelligence to replace human workers across all industries. Other industry leaders such as Sam Altman and Elon Musk have called for AI regulation. In response, Chesky voiced his perspective during an episode of the “This Week in Startups” podcast, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the types of jobs AI will create. He urged individuals to avoid solely focusing on the negative aspects of job displacement, and instead, consider the potential employment opportunities that AI could bring about.

According to Chesky, Artificial Intelligence is making the software engineers in Airbnb more efficient, especially with the ability of ChatGPT-like tools to handle about 30% of every day’s tasks for the next 6 months. He also argued that this would not put the jobs of the engineers at risk, rather it would help them spend their time on more difficult and personalized projects

Matt Higgins, CEO of RSE Ventures shares Chesky’s sentiments, as he mentioned in the article he wrote last week that AI is one of the best ways to make money.

AI; A double-edged sword

Before now, so many people have been worried about different forms of technology taking the place of human beings. The internet and computers have eliminated roles like phone operators and typists. 

Elon Musk, in an interview with CNBC, cautioned about the dual nature of AI. He highlighted the potential loss of personal fulfillment if AI outperforms individuals in their respective fields of work. However, Musk stressed that anxiety should arise from the speed of AI’s progress and society’s readiness to cope with it. He asserted that AI represents a creative tool, and individuals need only be concerned if they choose not to embrace its potential. 

“I’m concerned about how fast it’s going, and whether society is prepared for the speed. But I think from a creative standpoint, you only have to be worried if you don’t want to be a part of it because this is a creative tool for you”

Elon Musk on the speed of artificial intelligence

Photo Credit: Clem Onojeghuo