Hebba Youssef knows the workplace is evolving faster than ever.
As chief people officer at Workweek, a professional networking startup, and creator of the biweekly HR and recruiting newsletter I Hate It Here, she’s witnessed firsthand how trends like remote work, hybrid schedules, and the rise of AI have transformed how we work.
That’s why, when evaluating job candidates, she prioritizes two traits above all: curiosity and adaptability.
“In a world that’s constantly changing, being curious about the company’s mission, its role in the market, and how your position contributes to its success are giant green flags,” Youssef says.
With AI increasingly shaping the workplace, she adds, employers want hires who can embrace and adapt to new tools. She often references a line from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang:
“You’re not going to lose your job to AI, but you’re going to lose your job to someone who uses AI.”
Why AI skills are now a hiring edge
Youssef encourages candidates to “upskill” in AI — not necessarily to become experts, but to show awareness and initiative.
A candidate who comes to an interview ready to discuss how AI could streamline the role or improve team efficiency will stand out. “That gives you a killer edge,” she says.
Before an interview, she suggests researching AI tools relevant to the job. For instance, marketing candidates might explore tools that analyze ad campaign performance. Even if the role doesn’t yet require AI, demonstrating basic AI literacy signals to employers that you’re ready to keep pace with innovation.
Youssef predicts that “AI literacy” will soon become a standard line in job descriptions, making self-driven upskilling increasingly important.
Of course, the technology is evolving at breakneck speed. Today’s AI skills may be outdated in months, which Youssef admits is “genuinely scary.” But a foundational understanding still reassures employers that you can adapt as the tools change.
“AI is going to disrupt every single industry,” she says. “There is nothing it’s not going to touch.”