Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we work, opening up new possibilities and challenges for workers in different sectors and industries. AI can do many things faster and better than humans, but it can also enhance our abilities and enable us to create new things. However, AI also poses a threat to many existing jobs, especially those that don’t require much skills and education.
A report by Goldman Sachs says that AI could replace 300 million full-time jobs around the world by 2030, which could cause a lot of disruption in the labor market. The report says that AI could replace up to a quarter of work tasks in the US and Europe, and up to a third in China, India and other emerging markets. The sectors that are most at risk include manufacturing, agriculture, retail, transportation, hospitality and entertainment.
But not all jobs are equally vulnerable to AI. Some jobs are safer than others, depending on how much human interaction, creativity, problem-solving and decision-making they involve. For example, a study by PwC says that up to 30% of existing jobs across the OECD could be at risk of automation by the mid-2030s, but this ranges from 14% in Norway to 44% in Slovakia. Another study by McKinsey says that while only 5% of jobs can be fully automated, about 60% of jobs have some parts that can be automated.
So what can you do to prepare for the future of work and keep your job in the age of AI? Here are some tips:
- Keep learning and updating your skills: AI is always evolving and creating new demands for skills and competencies. To keep up with the changes, you need to be flexible and adaptable, and willing to learn new things throughout your career. You can use online courses, certifications, workshops and other learning opportunities to learn new knowledge and skills that are in demand in the market. You can also ask for feedback from your peers, mentors and managers to find out your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Focus on your human skills: AI may be able to do many things better than humans, but it can’t replace the human touch. Skills such as communication, collaboration, empathy, creativity, critical thinking and emotional intelligence are essential for working well with others, solving complex problems and generating innovative ideas. These skills are also harder to automate and more valued by employers. You can improve these skills by working on diverse projects, teams and networks, seeking different perspectives and opinions, and challenging yourself to think outside the box.
- Embrace change and innovation: AI is creating new possibilities for work that were not possible before. You can use AI to boost your productivity, quality and efficiency, as well as to explore new opportunities for growth and development. You can also use AI to augment your own abilities and complement your human skills. For instance, you can use AI tools to automate boring tasks, analyze data, generate insights, provide recommendations or create content. You can also use AI platforms to connect with other professionals, access information and resources, or find new jobs or gigs.
- Be proactive and resilient: AI is also creating new challenges and uncertainties for workers, such as job displacement, skill mismatch, income inequality or ethical dilemmas. You need to be proactive and resilient in facing these challenges and finding solutions. You can do this by being aware of the trends and developments in your industry and profession, anticipating the potential impacts of AI on your job and career path, seeking guidance from experts or mentors, exploring alternative options or pathways if needed, or taking action to improve your situation or circumstances.
AI is replacing jobs but it is also creating new ones. The key is to adapt to the changes and make the most of the opportunities that AI offers. By following these tips, you can keep your job in the future of work and thrive in the age of AI.