Every Generative AI Skill Your Team Needs to Succeed

May 20

Generative AI is quickly becoming a core part of how work gets done. From drafting content to analyzing data to brainstorming new ideas, these tools aren’t just for tech teams — they’re transforming how people across every department operate.

But while many teams are experimenting, few have a clear picture of what it actually means to be “AI-ready.” That’s why we’ve pulled together a comprehensive list of generative AI skills every team should be building — no coding required.

Whether you're in HR, marketing, operations, or L&D, these are the skills that will help your team use AI effectively, responsibly, and creatively.

1. Core Understanding

Before you can use generative AI well, your team needs to understand the basics.

What generative AI is and how it works
Key terms like models, tokens, training, and hallucinations
The differences between generative AI and automation
Common tools and what they’re best used for
When and why generative AI is appropriate — and when it’s not

2. Prompting & Input Design

Prompting is the new skill every knowledge worker needs.

Writing clear, focused prompts
Providing good context to improve results
Iterating and refining prompts for quality
Creating reusable prompt templates for common tasks
Designing multi-step or “chained” prompts for complex outputs
Judging when to stop prompting and take human control

3. Tool Proficiency

AI fluency isn’t just about theory — it’s about knowing your tools.

Using tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini for core tasks
Exploring AI features built into common platforms (e.g., Word, Notion, Gmail)
Comparing tool strengths and limitations
Selecting the right tool for the right job

4. Task-Based Applications

Teams get value from AI when they apply it to real work.

Drafting emails, reports, job descriptions, and content
Summarizing long documents, meetings, or chat threads
Brainstorming new ideas or creative content
Analyzing survey responses or customer feedback
Repurposing content across formats (e.g., blog to slide deck)
Using AI to respond to questions, FAQs, or common requests

5. Workflow Integration

The best AI users don’t treat it as a side tool — they make it part of how they work.

Embedding AI into day-to-day tasks and routines
Using AI alongside project management, docs, and communication tools
Creating lightweight workflows with no-code automation tools
Documenting AI-enhanced processes for team sharing

6. Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing

AI skills shouldn’t live in silos. Help your team level up together.

Sharing useful prompts and results across the team
Teaching others how to use generative AI effectively
Leading team experiments or working sessions with AI
Identifying team-wide opportunities to improve with AI

7. Critical Thinking & Evaluation

AI can do a lot — but it still needs a human editor.

Reviewing AI outputs for bias, clarity, tone, and relevance
Fact-checking and editing where necessary
Knowing the limits of AI-generated content
Making judgment calls on when to trust or override the tool

8. Ethical & Responsible Use

Trust is critical when introducing AI in the workplace.

Understanding risks like hallucinations, bias, and IP issues
Applying your organization’s AI use policies
Avoiding sensitive or private data inputs
Clearly labeling or disclosing AI-generated content

9. Personal Productivity with AI

For individual contributors, AI can become a personal assistant.

Summarizing emails, prepping for meetings, managing to-do lists
Creating quick drafts and outlines
Using AI to think through complex decisions or options
Reflecting on how AI can reduce busywork or cognitive load

10. Future-Readiness

Generative AI isn’t standing still — neither should your team.

Staying current with new tools and capabilities
Evaluating new use cases within your department
Leading conversations about how work is evolving
Building a culture of experimentation and adaptation

Final Thought: It’s Time to Get Specific

If your AI training is still stuck at the awareness level, this list gives you a roadmap for what’s next. These are the skills that help employees not just know about AI, but actually use it — confidently, creatively, and responsibly.

Need help designing an AI upskilling plan for your team? I help HR and L&D leaders build practical, persona-based programs that match real workplace needs.

Let’s talk about what AI fluency looks like for your workforce.

Nicolle Merrill