Getting Started with AI for Business

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how work gets done. From drafting communications and analyzing information to generating ideas and improving workflows, AI tools are becoming essential for professionals across every function.

Yet many professionals only scratch the surface of what these tools can do. The difference often comes down to understanding how to work effectively with AI, evaluate outputs critically, and apply these tools to real business challenges.

This highly interactive program provides a practical foundation in generative AI and the techniques that help users achieve better results. Participants will gain hands-on experience with leading AI platforms while learning how to apply them across a variety of business scenarios. No prior AI experience or technical background is required.

What You Will Learn

• How generative AI works and where it creates business value
• Foundations of effective prompting and communicating with AI tools
• Techniques for using AI more effectively in complex business situations
• How context improves AI performance and output quality
• Differences between leading AI tools and when to use them
• Open-Source LLMs: Ollama & Hugging Face
• Applications of AI across marketing, finance, HR, operations, and consulting
• Ethical considerations, limitations, and responsible AI use

Key Benefits

Participants will:

• Increase productivity by using AI more effectively in daily work
• Improve the quality and consistency of AI-generated outputs
• Develop practical techniques that can be applied immediately
• Better evaluate when and how to use different AI tools
• Identify opportunities to leverage AI across business functions
• Build confidence using AI responsibly and effectively
• You will leave with a strong foundation in generative AI, practical techniques you can apply immediately, and greater confidence using AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making, and business outcomes.

Who Should Attend

• Managers and leaders seeking to improve productivity through AI
• Professionals interested in applying AI to their daily work
• Functional leaders across marketing, finance, HR, operations, and strategy
• Individuals looking to better understand the opportunities and limitations of generative AI
• Anyone seeking practical, non-technical experience with leading AI tools

Instructor
Hossein Amini

Senior Lecturer in Data Analytics

WashU Olin Business School

Location & Modality

In-Person, Charles F. Knight Center on WashU's Danforth Campus

For more information, contact:

Email Registrar: execed@wustl.edu

Phone: 314.935.9494

Register