Mark Cuban, the renowned billionaire investor and entrepreneur, sees a golden opportunity for teenagers in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In a recent CNBC interview, Cuban shared his advice, suggesting that if he were a teenager today, he would be diving headfirst into an AI-powered side hustle.
Cuban’s three-step plan is simple but effective:
1.
Master the Art of AI Prompts:
Learn how to craft the perfect questions and instructions for AI language models to get the desired results. Think of it as mastering the art of communication with these powerful AI systems.2.
Teach Your Peers:
Once you’ve honed your skills, share your knowledge with friends and classmates. Help them use AI prompts to enhance their school assignments and gain a competitive edge.3.
Target Businesses:
The real money lies in offering your AI expertise to businesses, especially smaller companies that haven’t yet embraced the power of AI. Cuban envisions teenagers becoming valuable consultants, guiding these businesses on how to leverage AI effectively.The demand for AI skills is booming. A LendingTree report reveals that over half of Gen Z in the U.S. are already engaging in side hustles, and AI prompt engineering is emerging as a profitable niche. According to ZipRecruiter, AI tutors can earn an average of $30,000 annually, while full-time AI prompt engineers can command salaries up to $129,500.
While a college degree isn’t a requirement to become an AI prompt engineer, practical experience and certifications are essential to understand how these complex language models work. Fortunately, online certification programs from reputable institutions like Vanderbilt University and IBM can provide a solid foundation in just a month.
Cuban’s own entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of hustle and early-stage ventures. He started selling garbage bags door-to-door at age 12, later financing his college education by selling collectibles. After a brief stint in banking, he launched his first company, MicroSolutions, which he sold for $6 million in 1990. His second venture, Broadcast.com, was acquired by Yahoo for a whopping $5.7 billion in 1999, catapulting him into the billionaire’s club.
Cuban’s latest advice underscores the transformative potential of AI, not only for established businesses but also for young individuals seeking to build a career and earn money. As AI continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals, especially those who can bridge the gap between humans and machines, will only grow, making this a truly exciting opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
