Think Like a Problem Solver: From Employee to AI and Data Business Growth Consultant
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Introduction: Understanding the Education System's Roots
Think back to your university days. Did you ever feel like the formal education system was outdated? If so, it’s because it was designed during the first industrial revolution, around mid-18th century, when the rise of power-driven machines like the power loom and steam engine demanded a workforce ready for factory roles. These factories needed both blue and white-collar workers to perform specific, well-defined tasks. So, universities developed programs to fill these factory roles.
Despite attempts to evolve, the education system is always playing catch-up with what is needed in the job market. Think about it—remember those lecturers who used the same notes year after year? They’re teaching knowledge that’s often outdated, leaving graduates like you with skills that don’t fit today’s job market.
Don’t be tempted to think this is predominantly a problem in less developed countries. It might shock you to know even the educational systems in developed countries are playing the catch-up game. I have studied in both regions. I can testify to this. Probably you too.
Today, we’re in the 4th Industrial Revolution, driven by artificial intelligence. While AI technology holds immense promise, our formal educational systems are not yet ready to make the necessary changes. On the other hand, companies are figuring out how to leverage the technology effectively to solve business problems. This uncertainty opens up unique opportunities for those who can leverage the technology and position themselves as problem solvers in specific areas of the economy.
The Evolution of Problem-Solving in Business
Understanding how companies adopt AI and data solutions can give you a significant edge. Companies typically go through five main phases as illustrated below:
- Problem Identification: Companies first need to identify a problem that requires a solution.
- Solution Research: Next, they research potential solutions to the problem.
- Skills Identification: Once a solution plan is identified, they determine what roles and skills are needed to implement it.
- Job Specification: Job specifications for each role and position needed for execution are drawn up.
- Job Openings: Finally, vacancies are created on job platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, etc.
Considering the figure above, not all identified problems convert into job openings. Many initiatives don’t pan out. According to the job market formula I detailed in a previous article, only 3% of identified problems are converted to job openings. The rest 97% remain uncovered.
The sad news is, holding on to an employee mindset means competing for the few available positions—just 3% of the opportunities. But what about the other 97%? To access the other 97% of opportunities, you need to shift from an employee mindset to that of a problem solver. This means rethinking your approach and positioning yourself as an AI and data growth consultant who solves specific business problems.
In the next paragraphs, I’ll guide you through this transformation, helping you position yourself as a specific industry consultant who utilizes AI and data skills and technology to identify and solve business problems, helping companies to grow.
Transforming Yourself: The Path to Becoming a Growth Consultant
I want you to start by discarding generic job titles such as data scientist, data analyst, or business analyst. These titles have been overused and misinterpreted by different companies, making it ineffective to sell yourself with these broad titles in today’s job market. Indirectly, I’m asking you to avoid presenting yourself generically like this
This approach no longer stands out.
By the end of this section, you should be able to describe yourself as an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant.
Ready for the transformation?
Let’s dive in.
In the following paragraphs, we will answer the following questions about an AI and Data Growth Consultant:
- Who is an AI and Data Growth Consultant?
- Why is this role relevant?
- What it takes to assume such a role
An AI and Data Business Growth Consultant
An AI and Data Business Growth Consultant is a professional who specialises in advising businesses on how to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven strategies to achieve growth and success. This role involves a combination of expertise in AI technologies, data analytics, and business strategy, along with the ability to understand and address the unique challenges and opportunities facing each client in an industry.
Responsibilities of an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant
As an AI and Data Business Growth consultant, you are responsible for one or more of the following.
- Strategic Analysis: Conducting in-depth assessments of a client’s business operations, goals, and market position to identify areas where AI and data solutions can drive growth and competitive advantage.
- Solution Development: Collaborating with clients to develop customised AI and data-driven solutions tailored to their specific needs and objectives.
- Implementation Support: Assisting clients in implementing and integrating AI and data solutions into their existing systems and workflows, providing guidance on best practices, technology selection, and change management strategies.
- Performance Optimisation: Continuously monitoring and analysing the performance of AI and data initiatives, identifying areas for improvement, and optimising strategies to maximise ROI and achieve business objectives.
- Training and Education: Providing training and education to client teams on AI and data concepts, tools, and methodologies, empowering them to effectively leverage these technologies to drive business growth and innovation.
- Industry Insights: Keeping abreast of the latest trends, developments, and best practices in AI and data analytics, and advising clients on how to stay competitive and future-proof their businesses in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Overall, an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant serves as a trusted advisor to businesses, helping them harness the power of AI and data to unlock new opportunities, enhance decision-making, and achieve sustainable growth in today’s data-driven economy.
Benefits of Being an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant
When you become an AI and Data Business Growth, you enjoy the following benefits:
- High Demand and High Fees
- Specialised Expertise: With the increasing reliance on data and AI across industries, there is a high demand for consultants who can provide specialised knowledge and solutions.
- Premium Rates: Due to the specialised nature of the work and the significant value provided, AI and Data Business Growth Consultants can command higher fees compared to generalist roles.
- Flexibility and Control
- Set Your Own Rules: As a consultant, you have the autonomy to set your own working hours and choose your projects. This level of control allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to pursue projects that align with your interests and expertise.
- Remote Working: The nature of AI and data work allows for remote consulting. You can work from anywhere in the world, giving you the flexibility to travel or work from the comfort of your home.
- Diverse Opportunities
- Variety of Industries: AI and data analytics are applicable in a wide range of industries, from healthcare and finance to retail and manufacturing. This diversity provides numerous opportunities to apply your skills in different contexts and keep your work interesting.
- Challenging Projects: Working as a consultant means you often tackle unique and challenging problems that require innovative solutions, keeping your work intellectually stimulating and rewarding.
- Professional Growth
- Continuous Learning: The fast-evolving nature of AI and data analytics means you will continuously learn and stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies, ensuring your skills remain relevant and cutting-edge.
- Networking: Consulting allows you to work with a variety of clients and professionals, expanding your professional network and opening doors to future opportunities and collaborations.
- Impact and Recognition
- Significant Contributions: By helping companies leverage AI and data-driven strategies, you play a crucial role in their growth and success, leading to a strong sense of accomplishment and impact.
- Professional Recognition: Successfully implementing AI and data solutions can establish you as a thought leader and expert in your field, enhancing your professional reputation and leading to further career opportunities.
- Financial Independence
- Potential for Higher Earnings: As a high-demand consultant, you have the potential to earn significantly more than in traditional employment roles. The ability to set your rates and take on multiple clients can lead to substantial financial rewards.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Many consultants eventually start their own consulting firms or develop AI and data-driven products, providing additional revenue streams and business growth opportunities.
By leveraging your expertise in AI and data, you can enjoy these benefits while making a meaningful impact on businesses and industries worldwide.
Key Ingredients to Become an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant
To be a successful AI and Data Business Growth Consultant, you should confidently complete the statement below:
“As an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant, I help companies in {specific industry} solve {specific problem} by using {specific AI and data skills}, resulting in {solution}.”
Let’s break down the key words:
Industry Knowledge
After graduating, you’ve got a secret weapon: industry knowledge. Whether it’s from your studies or work experience, you’ve got insights others don’t. Dive deep into a specific area of your field. Companies are after experts who know their niche inside out. This knowledge helps you spot problems and deliver tailored solutions
Specific Problem
Once you’ve honed in on your niche, it’s time to pinpoint a specific problem to tackle. Avoid generalities—companies hire experts for laser-focused solutions to specific problems, not vague ideas. Look for significant pain points in your industry. These are the challenges worth solving, the ones companies are willing to invest in to fix.
Desired Solution
Companies have a vision of where they want to be—but they need help getting there. That’s where you come in. Your expertise bridges the gap between their current state and their goals. Your job? Clearing the obstacles in their path with your specialized knowledge.
Specific AI and Data Skills
AI and data skills are vast, but without a specific focus, they’re like arrows without a target. Start by identifying the exact skills you need to tackle your chosen problem and reach the desired solution. Tailor your skills to fit the problem at hand—no more, no less.
In summary, to transition into an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant role, ask yourself four key questions:
- What specific niche in your industry interests you?
- Which specific problem in that niche is worth solving and companies are willing to pay for?
- What are the desired results companies in your niche want to achieve?
- What are the minimum AI and data skills necessary to solve this specific problem?
With answers to these questions, you can confidently craft your professional statement like this:
Conclusion
Remember, transforming into an AI and Data Business Growth Consultant requires shifting from a generalist employee mindset to a specialised problem-solving approach. By leveraging industry knowledge, identifying specific problems, understanding desired solutions, and acquiring targeted AI and data skills, you position yourself as a valuable expert who can drive significant business growth in your chosen niche.
This is just the beginning of the transformation process. Taking action is key! To further assist you, I’ve compiled a simple guide called the education to professional employment (E2PE) framework, available for free. With it, you’ll uncover tailored AI and Data Business Growth Consultant career paths, how to fill skill gaps efficiently, gain valuable work experience, and create attractive proposals and CVs to secure high-paying job opportunities.
Don’t miss out—grab your free copy of the E2PE framework now! Link
Author: Ivo Kubam
Date: 25-05-2024
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