AI will replace recruiters and admin roles with a single prompt, says Perplexity CEO

Aravind Srinivas, in recent media appearances, claimed that AI tools like the Comet browser could soon automate key tasks of recruiters and administrative assistants, urging professionals to adapt or risk falling behind

Artificial intelligence is poised to dramatically reshape the white-collar workforce, according to Aravind Srinivas, CEO and co-founder of Perplexity AI. In a series of recent media appearances, Srinivas suggested that AI-driven tools—specifically Perplexity's own Comet browser—are now capable of performing the core tasks of recruiters and administrative assistants, potentially rendering these roles obsolete in the near future.

Srinivas’ comments, made during interviews including an episode of The Verge's Decoder podcast, highlight how quickly generative AI is moving beyond simple content creation into complex workflow automation.

Recruiting, reimagined

The CEO explained that modern AI agents can manage the end-to-end recruitment process. Using Comet, a user can issue a single prompt to identify suitable candidates, send outreach messages, track replies, update internal databases, and even schedule interviews. Calendar integration and automated briefings eliminate much of the human touch currently required.

“A task that typically takes a recruiter an entire week can now be done in seconds,” Srinivas said, emphasizing the shift from manual processes to proactive AI assistance.

Admin jobs in the crosshairs

Administrative roles may be next. Srinivas noted that AI is already adept at managing calendars, following up on tasks, resolving scheduling conflicts, and preparing documents ahead of meetings. With AI models improving rapidly, he believes routine office support functions will soon be handled almost entirely by digital assistants.

“Every few months, these systems are getting better. The trajectory is clear,” he added, warning that young professionals should quickly adapt to the new AI-first landscape.

Comet’s expanding capabilities

Comet, positioned as an AI-powered web browser, offers more than just content generation. It can interact with websites, book appointments, track deals, and automate recurring tasks. Users can set up actions like scheduling monthly salon visits or finding travel options with minimal input.

Although Comet’s advanced features remain behind a paywall, Perplexity has begun offering limited access to free users. In a recent Reddit AMA, Srinivas confirmed that while basic browsing functions may become universally available, agent-based automation will likely stay exclusive to premium plans.

A warning and a vision

As AI continues to evolve, Srinivas’ message is clear: white-collar workers must embrace automation or risk being outpaced by it.