Review of the Course "Generative AI for Professionals" by Connor Grennan
One of the trickiest things about this domain is how fundamentally different it feels, so I looked into Connor's course to see how he frames it for business / non-technical stakeholders.
For the price and topics covered, Generative AI for Professionals is worth it if you are exploring or early on in your use of generative AI. Connor’s enthusiasm and positive outlook are refreshing, and the content is approachable.
It's also easy to breeze through at 2x speed, whether you're watching or listening, as some of the content is discussion based and does not require you to actively watch the screen.
Here are my takeaways as someone that has been advising on and implementing generative AI solutions for clients, plus leading workshops on the topic.
Consider AI Like a Human, Not Google
One of the key insights from the course is that generative AI isn't just a fancy search engine. If you use it like Google, you're underestimating its potential and will likely be underwhelmed.
Instead, treat it more like having a personal assistant who can help brainstorm, solve problems, and even think through ideas.
Explore a Wider and Unbounded Reality
Asking AI to do things that are not grounded in reality (e.g. time travel to suggest why something might be successful or fail) is a novel approach in how we use technology.
This is a mental shift, as practically everything we do and have done is bounded by reality, while generative AI opens the door to different perspectives.
Using Voice Mode for Conversations
Engaging with generative AI in a voice conversation is a game changer, and an area that I previously have been hesitant to explore as someone that prefers the "hands on keyboard" experience.
Here's why this is worth doing:
You are somewhat forced to treat it like a conversation (instead of Google)
You can reclaim time using it while in contexts that would otherwise be not recommended or hard to use technology (e.g. while driving, walking in the park)
Your discussion's transcripts are saved as text to refer to or resume the conversation later as needed
If you're already experienced with AI like I am, the course serves more as a structured reinforcement of ideas you may already know.
Regardless, if you're curious about learning more about generative AI, I encourage you to take a look at Connor's course and the more than a handful of my previous newsletters discussing the topic.
TLDR: If you're dipping your toe into the waters of generative AI, Connor's course is worth consuming to establish a foundational understanding.
Also, for transparency, I have no affiliation with Connor Grennan. This is my assessment of an offering without being prompted or incentivized to do so.
