This is an episode worth listening to the end because today I’m sharing how Perplexity staff use AI at work! Perplexity’s 42-page internal guide has been published and widely circulated across the Internet, and I want to share what it says.
Hello and welcome back to AI SIX.
Why Perplexity Shared Its Internal Guide
Perplexity’s leadership noticed a major gap in how people use AI at work. Too often, AI is sold as a shiny, all-powerful solution — hyped up in marketing but disappointing in everyday workflows.
Inside the company, though, Perplexity was using AI differently. Not as a magic bullet, but as a practical partner that helps staff get real work done. Their playbook aims to shift the conversation — showing professionals how to use AI intentionally to drive results, not just experiment with the latest tools.
By opening up their guide, Perplexity hopes to democratise practical AI use, making structured, repeatable workflows accessible to everyone — not just tech insiders.
The Three Pillars of Perplexity’s Approach to Using AI at Work
1. Block Distractions and Reclaim Focus
The first pillar is simple: get AI to handle the noise. Staff automate routine admin tasks like emails, meeting prep, research, and task tracking. This frees up time for deep, focused work — less multitasking, more meaningful progress.
2. Scale Yourself and Amplify Capabilities
AI isn’t treated as a shortcut, but as a multiplier of human skills. The playbook shows how to craft smarter prompts, synthesise research faster, and surface new insights. Teams use repeatable templates to create reports, analyse competitors, and monitor market trends — efficiently and consistently.
3. Get Results and Drive Outcomes
The final pillar is about results. AI supports teams in producing high-quality deliverables — from client briefings and performance reports to strategy documents. Shared workspaces and prompt libraries help teams stay aligned, ensuring that outputs are not just quick, but strategic and professional.
Real Prompts, Real Workflows
The playbook is full of real-world examples, like:
- “Prep me for my next client call.”
- “Summarise public sector digital trends this month.”
It even includes daily routines, review checklists, and brand templates — all designed to be practical and immediately usable. Perplexity’s “secret sauce” lies in keeping things simple: conversational AI, consistent workflows, and one unified workspace.
Mindset Over Toolset
One of the most striking themes is that Perplexity treats AI not as a replacement for talent, but as a force multiplier. Expertise still matters, but AI helps you get to deeper insights, faster. The playbook encourages thoughtful, disciplined use, prioritising depth over breadth, and creativity over just chasing novelty. This mindset is what Perplexity believes will separate those who thrive with AI from those who simply ride the waves.
So whether you’re a marketer, a team leader, or a solo entrepreneur, there’s something in this guide for you. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s progress, building new habits where AI becomes an extension of your own thinking and execution.
About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience in training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
