Previously, we’ve discussed methods to enhance your effectiveness and results using practical AI capabilities. Be it utilizing prompt engineering to compose an ideal email or preparing for your upcoming interview using ChatGPT, there are virtually limitless ways generative AI can assist you in your current role—or even during your job hunt.

However, despite their advantages, many employees still feel uncertain about how to effectively utilize the myriad of GenAI tools being integrated into their productivity software. In fact, a recent Forrester report revealed that confusion surrounding GenAI spans from most consumers to a significant number of executives, who incorrectly assumed it could verify information (82%), provide consistent results (70%), and tackle intricate mathematical problems (84%).

Today, we’re clarifying some points by examining two GenAI tools you are likely to come across in your workplace: Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. As functionalities in two of the most prevalent productivity platforms–Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace–Copilot and Gemini present an opportunity for you to harness cutting-edge technology to enhance your professional performance. Let’s dive in.

Overview of Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant embedded within many key applications that make up Microsoft 365, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. While this is the primary environment you are likely to encounter Copilot at work, it is also available in various other Microsoft products, including Bing search, the Edge web browser, and as a sidebar feature in Windows operating systems.

To enhance your efficiency, here are several ways you might utilize Copilot in Microsoft 365 in your job:

• Excel: Generate data visualizations, uncover insights, highlight pertinent data, and introduce new columns with built-in functions.
• Outlook: Create, revise, and summarize emails.
• Teams: Transcribe and summarize meetings, and formulate action plans based on meeting notes.

Introduction to Google Gemini

Google Gemini is the AI assistant that Google has been incorporating into its suite of products and services, which include Google Workspace, Cloud, search capabilities, and mobile apps. Similar to Microsoft Copilot, you’ll find Gemini particularly useful in a work context owing to its integration within productivity tools like Gmail, Google Sheets, and Google Slides.

To elevate your performance, here are various ways you might leverage Google Gemini in a professional setting:

• Docs: Rapidly create drafts for content such as pitches, blog entries, or outlines.
• Sheets: Produce slides and graphics using simple commands.
• Research: Examine, interpret, and synthesize data to recognize insights and opportunities.

In general, Copilot and Gemini provide comparable functionalities, albeit on different platforms. Nevertheless, while both are recognized for their security, it is crucial to consult your organization’s data policy before sharing sensitive information with either tool!

Enhance your abilities with Copilot and Gemini

Discover more about utilizing Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini to enhance your productivity through these courses and Specializations on Coursera:

For a foundational understanding of Copilot or Gemini, consider enrolling in either Microsoft’s Introduction to Microsoft Copilot or Google Cloud’s Introduction to Gemini for Google Workspace courses.

To expand your knowledge of Gemini, try Google Cloud’s Gemini for Google Workspace Specialization. Learn how to utilize Gemini in tasks like drafting emails in Gmail, creating visuals for Google Slides, and formulating plans in Google Sheets, among others.

If you’re looking to broaden your expertise in Copilot, explore Microsoft’s Microsoft Copilot: Your Everyday AI Companion Specialization. Engage with real-world scenarios and develop a portfolio demonstrating Copilot’s potential to improve productivity in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. You might also consider reviewing Microsoft’s role-specific Specializations with Copilot for Software Development, Data Science, Sales, or Marketing.

The article Microsoft Copilot vs. Google Gemini: Essential Information first appeared on Coursera Blog.