AI has quickly become the ultimate game-changer in business. Companies and individuals alike are leveraging generative AI to streamline writing, automate workflows, manage content and organize daily tasks. Its reach spans nearly every industry and role, fundamentally reshaping how work gets done.

Whether AI is already changing your day-to-day or you anticipate its influence soon, the only surefire way to fall behind is to do nothing.

You’ve probably heard fearmongering, cautious optimism and plenty of advice from people unsure of where to start. While there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy to fully secure your role or maximize AI’s potential, there are concrete steps you can take today to prepare.

Here are three practical strategies to stay ahead:

1. Focus on your industry and your role

AI is often discussed as either a solution to all problems or a threat to every job. Extreme stories — like layoffs at tech companies or solopreneurs 10x-ing their reach with AI — grab attention, but they aren’t representative.

To cut through the noise, research how AI is already being used in your specific role and industry. Focus on:

• Your daily tasks
• Ongoing projects
• The unique value you bring to your business

Then explore how AI can simplify or enhance these areas. Being aware of industry trends — AI and otherwise — ensures you’re prepared to adapt without getting distracted by hype.

2. Develop people-centric skills

The value of soft skills has never been more critical. While coding and technical skills can become automated, human skills remain irreplaceable. Communication, problem-solving, teamwork and adaptability are all areas where humans continue to excel.

Invest in building trust, credibility and influence. People who excel at collaboration and critical thinking are naturally more adaptable in rapidly changing environments. In short, the more you operate in the business of people, the more resilient your career becomes.

Related: What Is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Here Are Its Benefits, Uses and More

3. Build your personal brand and explore alternative income streams

Keeping up with AI requires thinking beyond your current role or company. Your personal brand — your reputation, skills and experience — travels with you, offering security in a world where roles can shift quickly.

At the same time, consider side projects or part-time ventures in the gig economy. Many AI-driven opportunities are reshaping what’s possible outside traditional work. A hobby, passion project or freelance work could turn into a revenue stream, providing both experience and a safety net.

Related: Is AI Overshadowing Your Own Intelligence? Here’s the Shift You Need to Make.

The takeaway

There’s no guaranteed way to protect yourself completely from AI-driven change. But by focusing on your role and industry, strengthening people-centric skills and building a versatile personal brand, you can position yourself to adapt, thrive and even harness AI to your advantage.

The best approach is proactive preparation — start today, and you’ll give yourself the flexibility and resilience to succeed in an AI-driven future.