In an era where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, Perplexity AI co-founder and CEO Aravind Srinivas has delivered a powerful message to the younger generation: stop wasting time scrolling on Instagram and start learning AI tools to stay relevant in the job market.
Speaking in a recent podcast interview with The Verge’s Decoder, Srinivas emphasized the urgent need for professionals and students alike to invest their time in understanding Artificial Intelligence. According to him, AI is not just a passing trend — it's transforming how we work, hire, and build companies. Those who fail to adapt, he warns, will risk falling behind.
Why AI Skills Matter More Than Ever
Srinivas pointed out that AI is advancing so rapidly that it's reshaping industries in real-time. “The cycle of change is now just three to six months. That’s how fast AI is progressing,” he said. From automating recruitment processes to optimizing workflows, AI is doing more than just replacing tasks — it's redefining how jobs are performed.
He highlighted the capabilities of Perplexity’s new AI tool called Comet, which can automate an entire recruitment process. With just a single prompt, Comet can search for candidates, follow up, track responses, and even update Google Sheets in real time. It doesn’t just speed up hiring — it revolutionizes it.
According to Srinivas, tools like Comet, especially when paired with advanced AI models like GPT-5 or Claude 4.5, have the potential to drastically reduce the need for human intervention in repetitive tasks. These tools are currently available only to paid users but will soon be accessible to a broader audience.
The Harsh Truth About the Future Job Market
The urgency in Srinivas's message is echoed by other tech leaders. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, predicts that up to 50% of entry-level white-collar jobs could vanish within the next five years due to AI automation. Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the "Godfather of AI," has also issued similar warnings, stating that many jobs based on routine decision-making are at risk.
Srinivas made it clear: it’s not enough to learn just one AI skill. "Continuous learning is essential," he stressed. Stagnation in today’s fast-changing tech landscape means professional irrelevance. Individuals must constantly update their skills, learn new tools, and adapt to emerging technologies if they wish to remain competitive.
Social Media vs. Skill Building
While platforms like Instagram offer entertainment and instant gratification, Srinivas argues they don’t contribute meaningfully to career growth. “Don’t waste your time watching useless content,” he said. “Instead, learn how to use AI.” He believes that time spent on learning AI tools will yield long-term career benefits — not only improving employability but also opening doors to entrepreneurship and innovation.
AI: Threat or Opportunity?
Srinivas acknowledged the anxiety many people feel about the rise of AI. Rapid technological change is overwhelming, and not everyone is adapting well. But rather than seeing AI as a threat, he encourages people to view it as a tool for empowerment.
Yes, some jobs will disappear. But many new ones will also be created — jobs that require a deep understanding of AI tools, data analysis, prompt engineering, and workflow automation. For those who are willing to learn, the AI revolution presents an opportunity to lead, innovate, and thrive.
Conclusion:
Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas's advice is clear and timely: Shift your focus from endless scrolling to skill-building. In the AI-driven future, those who understand how to harness the power of intelligent tools will have a distinct advantage. As AI reshapes the world, the best investment you can make today is in learning — not just for your job, but for your long-term relevance.
