I asked AI whether it will take over jobs and this was it’s answer:
The impact of AI on jobs is a complex and debated topic. While AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and change the nature of work, the overall effect on jobs is not necessarily negative. Let’s examine the different perspectives.
While AI may impact certain job sectors, historical trends show that technology has generally led to increased productivity, economic growth, and the creation of new jobs. However, it’s crucial to address potential job displacements through proactive measures like education and reskilling programs, ensuring that the workforce is prepared for the changing demands of the job market. Overall, the effects of AI on jobs are complex and depend on various factors such as the specific industry, job type, and the readiness of the workforce to adapt to technological advancements.
Ok, so whilst this does seem reassuring, I am still not 100% eased with the answer. Nor does it ease the minds of many job seekers out there.
For individuals who are looking at starting a career or considering a career change, they would consider industries that are recession proof…and now, they may need to start considering industries that are AI proof too.
Of course, many roles over the years have been made redundant due to changes of the world.
There are not as many retail positions today as they were 20 years ago thanks to eCommerce. Video stores such as Blockbusters, have now closed their doors forever thanks to Netflix, and we no longer need the Milk Man because supermarkets will deliver everything to you, including house hold appliances.
So why should we get upset if AI takes a few roles here or there?
Well, let us look at the facts.
I would like to discuss the roles AI mentioned it may take over.
Let’s start with Data Entry. This is a predominately female held position where women makeup 83% of the workforce. Why does this matter? Because today we have yet to find balance between men and women in the workplace, and removing a role which is mainly female orientated is creating one more hurdle for this gender.
The average age for this role is 40. Whilst 40 is still considered young, it is not as attractive as someone in their 20s, limiting employment opportunities even further for these individuals.
This is also a role which does not require any qualifications, it is very sedentary work too. Why does that matter? If AI takes over these “mundane tasks” as it says, it will leave a larger population of individuals who are not educated (50.66% of the Australian population), may have physical problems to do labour intensive work, and struggle to find a role that will not discriminated against age.
The Milk Man can easily transition to becoming a Post Man. But what is the transition from Data Entry? Any transferable skill from that role to another, will be at risk of being replaced by AI as well, such as Customer Service. Logically speaking, a customer service based role could be an alternative position for anyone in Data Entry. However, AI has informed Customer Service is on its radar too. AI can answer the phone, it can send a letter, it can generate a script, it can write a blog, create a Instagram post – let us not be fooled by the extent of what AI can truly do.
78.81% of the Australian population work in customer service based roles. That is a massive number of the population who may be having a face-off with AI to fight for their jobs. Even if AI does not take over every single position, it will reduce the amount of staff required. Meaning, more will become unemployed.
I can understand from a companies perspective – it will be cutting costs. However, let us look at the bigger picture – if the majority of the population is struggling to find employment, then they will be struggling to pay for products and services, leaving many organisations falling short in sales.
Additionally, with the idea of AI creating new jobs to support it, is not something to get overly excited about. Not everyone is technically able and capable to work in an IT based role. It may open jobs, however, very limiting positions indeed. The main industry in which Australians work in is at risk of being taken over. So whilst we all think “hey, it is only mundane tasks”, we need to consider how many of us are actually in such roles and how many will be impacted.
What Is My Prediction Of Roles AI Can and May Take Over?
You may think I am overreacting here, but have a critical view on this and consider how AI can take over these roles:
There are still some roles that can benefit greatly by the support of AI without having to lose their jobs. Rather, assist and/or enhance the productivity and service:
Today, I would be taking a critical and serious look at the industry I am working in and see how AI can and will impact it. Will you be working together or will it be stabbing you in the back one day and take over your job?
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Will AI take over all jobs in the future?
AI is likely to change the way many jobs are done, but that doesn’t mean every job will disappear. Some tasks may be handled by AI, while others will still need human input. How much things change will depend on the industry, the type of work and how businesses choose to use AI.
Which jobs are most at risk from AI?
Jobs that involve repetitive or routine tasks may be more likely to be affected by AI. But that doesn’t always mean the whole job will disappear. In many cases, AI may take over certain tasks while other parts of the role still need to be done by a person.
Will AI create new job opportunities?
Yes, AI could open up new job opportunities, particularly in areas such as technology, data management and AI-related services. Some existing jobs may also change, creating opportunities to learn new skills and take on different responsibilities.
What skills will be important as AI becomes more common?
Skills such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and adaptability will still be important. It can also help to learn how to use AI tools that are relevant to your work, especially as more businesses start using them in their day-to-day operations.
How can I prepare my career for AI?
Start by looking at how AI is being used in your industry and whether it could change some of the tasks you do at work. Think about which skills you might need to improve and look for training or opportunities to practise using AI tools. You don’t have to learn everything at once, but getting familiar with the technology can help you prepare for changes.
Can AI replace human decision-making at work?
AI can help businesses make decisions by analysing information and spotting patterns, but it doesn’t always get things right. It can make mistakes, miss important details or produce biased results. That’s why human judgement is still important, especially when decisions affect employees, customers or other individuals.
Should I consider changing careers because of AI?
Not necessarily. Just because AI is changing your industry doesn’t mean you need to find a completely different career. Before making that decision, look at how your current role might change, what skills you could develop and whether there are new opportunities worth exploring. Sometimes, learning new skills and adapting to changes in your current role may be a better first step than starting over.
My first job in Australia was through the help of one of the My Career Angels consultants.
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