OpenAI leaders in hiring focus on intrinsic traits rather than conventional qualifications. Curiosity is paramount, as it allows individuals to ask the right questions in the evolving AI field. Nick Turley emphasized the need for humility in researchers, recognizing the rapid changes in technology. Agency, the ability to independently identify and resolve issues, is also crucial. Additionally, adaptability is necessary for navigating a fast-paced environment, making it more valuable than advanced degrees like a Ph.D. in AI.
"Hiring is hard, especially if you want to have a small team that is very, very good and humble, and able to move fast," Turley admitted. "I think curiosity has been the number one thing that I've looked for, and it's actually my advice to students when they ask me, 'What do I do in this world where everything's changing?'"
Turley explained that building AI is less about knowing the right answers and more about knowing how to ask the right questions with an innate curiosity.
Chen agreed with Turley and added that he looks for agency in new hires, or the ability to find problems and fix them with little oversight.
Chen noted that agency and adaptability were more important than having a Ph.D in AI. He said that 'You need to be able to quickly figure out what's important and pivot to what you need to do.'
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