Perplexity CEO predicts AI-induced job shifts with a silver lining

According to Perplexity's CEO, AI-induced job losses might not be entirely negative.

In a discussion featured on the "All In" podcast, which was recorded at Nvidia's GTC last week and aired on Monday, Aravind Srinivas mentioned that AI could result in job reductions but also could create ample business opportunities.

"Many people do not find joy in their work," he claimed. Instead of traditional corporate jobs, he advised learning how to utilise AI tools to "begin your personal business venture."

On Monday’s podcast, the CEO further explained that small businesses powered by AI could provide entrepreneurs with the ability to meet their financial needs, enjoy a better quality of life, and experience ownership and excitement.

"Though we might face temporary job shifts, that's the promising future we should anticipate," he noted.

Srinivas cofounded Perplexity in 2022 after working as a researcher at Google's DeepMind and OpenAI. 

In August, Business Insider reported that the AI search engine was looking for new funding at a $20 billion post-money valuation. The startup's backers include SoftBank, Nvidia, and Jeff Bezos.

Srinivas has long advocated for AI as a means to foster entrepreneurship.

"Cut down your time doomscrolling on Instagram; invest more time leveraging AI," he suggested during a July conversation with Matthew Berman.

With AI leading to reduced workforce numbers, Srinivas indicated, the creation of new jobs is essential through entrepreneurial efforts.

"Either those who lose their jobs initiate businesses themselves utilizing AI, or they learn to leverage AI and contribute to emerging companies," he elaborated.

The surge in the availability of generative AI and vibe coding tools has driven people to explore side hustles and small business concepts.