In the rapidly evolving world of technology and employment, Jeff Bezos has long been known for his unconventional approaches to hiring at Amazon. One of his favorite interview questions, as revealed in recent discussions, cuts to the heart of what separates human ingenuity from artificial intelligence. During a talk at Italian Tech Week, Bezos emphasized the importance of invention, asking candidates to describe something they’ve invented. This query isn’t just quirky; it’s a litmus test for traits that AI struggles to replicate.

Bezos believes that in an era where tools like ChatGPT can polish resumes and automate routine tasks, true innovation remains a uniquely human domain. He argues that while AI excels at optimization and pattern recognition, it lacks the spark of original creation that drives breakthroughs. This perspective aligns with broader industry concerns about job displacement, yet Bezos sees it as an opportunity to identify irreplaceable talent.

The Innovation Imperative in Hiring

Drawing from a report in Fortune, Bezos’ question probes whether applicants can think like entrepreneurs, inventing solutions to problems big or small. For instance, he might ask about a time when someone devised a novel way to streamline a process or create a new product. This isn’t about grand inventions like the iPhone; even everyday innovations, such as a unique recipe or a homemade gadget, suffice if they demonstrate creative thinking.

Industry insiders note that this approach has helped Amazon build a culture of relentless innovation. Bezos’ philosophy stems from his early days, where he outlined three key hiring questions in a 1998 shareholder letter, including admiration for the person’s skills and whether they’d raise the company’s average talent level. But the invention question, highlighted in recent interviews, zeroes in on adaptability amid AI’s rise.

AI’s Limits and Human Strengths

Psychology backs Bezos’ method, as explored in an article from Inc., which explains how such questions reveal optimism and resilience—qualities AI can’t feign authentically. Bezos himself has expressed optimism about AI, stating in a CNBC interview that society will reap “gigantic” benefits from the technology, even if it’s currently in a bubble. He doesn’t see AI as a threat but as a tool that amplifies human potential.

Yet, for job seekers, acing this question requires more than rote answers. As detailed in The Times of India, Bezos once asked candidates if they considered themselves lucky, aiming to gauge gratitude and perspective. Combining these, the invention query exposes those who view challenges as opportunities for creation, a mindset that’s proving essential as AI automates coding, writing, and analysis roles.

Broader Implications for the Tech Sector

This hiring tactic has ripple effects beyond Amazon. In a Medium piece on Bezos’ conversation with Lex Fridman, he describes generative AI as a “discovery” rather than an invention, underscoring that humans are the true inventors. For industry leaders, adopting similar questions could help future-proof workforces against automation.

Ultimately, Bezos’ insight serves as a reminder that while AI can mimic, it can’t originate in the same profound way. As companies navigate technological shifts, prioritizing inventors ensures they stay ahead, fostering environments where human creativity thrives alongside machines. This approach not only identifies top talent but also inspires a generation to embrace invention as their competitive edge.