As artificial intelligence continues to reshape workplaces and redefine job responsibilities, Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu believes that professionals need more than just the ability to use AI tools to remain productive and relevant.
Vembu recently triggered a discussion on X (formerly Twitter) by highlighting the growing impact of AI on computer-based jobs and the changing expectations from employees. Pointing to the productivity gap emerging across workplaces, he said that “one smart person using AI can perform the work of 10 people.”
He also observed that employees who have not adopted AI are “still happily taking things slow.” His remarks highlight how AI adoption is creating a divide between professionals who effectively use the technology and those who continue to follow traditional working methods.
In a conversation with Hariharan, Vembu explained that AI-driven productivity depends heavily on an individual’s intelligence, decision-making and ability to guide technology. He identified 3 essential skills that professionals need to work effectively with AI.
First, employees must clearly understand what they want and communicate their requirements through precise instructions. Without proper direction, even advanced AI systems may fail to deliver useful results.
Second, professionals must be able to break complex problems into smaller, manageable tasks that AI tools can process more efficiently.
Third, they must continuously monitor AI-generated outputs, identify errors and make corrections whenever the system produces inaccurate or unexpected results.
Vembu described these capabilities as “meta-level skills”, comparing them to the expertise typically demonstrated by system architects.
“AI boosts their productivity substantially now. We are seeing all this in action already,” he added.
His observations point to a changing workplace where technical understanding, problem-solving and critical thinking will become increasingly important. As organisations integrate AI into their operations, professionals who can effectively direct, evaluate and supervise these systems may gain a significant productivity advantage.
The broader message is that while AI can automate several routine activities, human judgment, strategic thinking and oversight will remain essential to making the technology effective.
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