Job Security in The Age of AI Advancements

by Guest Author, Miles Oliver

Artificial intelligence (AI) has already started to make an impact on people’s everyday lives. While fascinating there are also various concerns about how the implementation of AI is likely to affect job security in the near future.

This is a vital element to consider. After all, AI is proving to be effective, with its skills continuing to grow the more it learns from quality data sets. The reality seems to be that, in the next few years, we’ll need to face the prospect of roles being replaced or reduced. AI is a threat to job security for many people.

It’s important to take strong steps now to navigate this issue as an employee or job seeker. So, let’s take a closer look at the issue of job security in the age of AI advancements.

Recognizing Lower-Risk Jobs

We’re still in the relatively early stages of AI being a component of the workplace. There are a few roles that have already been replaced by these automated machine-learning platforms. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean these changes won’t soon occur. The key is to be mindful of the types of industries and positions that could be impacted by the AI developments that are likely to happen in the immediate future. By focusing your job search and skills development here, you can mitigate the potential for redundancy.

There are certainly some roles and industries that won’t be easily replaced by AI. Many of these involve nuanced skill sets, require significant interpersonal connections, or rely on workplace experience. For instance, healthcare workers’ roles require the application of empathy and bedside manners that machines can’t provide. Trade careers, such as plumbing, roles are also relatively protected, due to the hands-on activities and customer interactions needed.

It’s important to be cautious in making assumptions, though. AI systems are frequently surprising us with what they’re capable of. Not to mention that scientists are increasingly having trouble explaining how and why some systems behave in specific ways. This can mean it’s difficult to guarantee a career will not be affected by AI. It is wise, then, to stay aware of developments in professional fields and speak to those already in the industry.

Research Industry Approaches to AI

Roles being replaced by AI is not the only issue. Some of the risks to job security come from how and why industries, and specific employers, are utilizing automated tools now. There are ethical approaches that suggest more positive and human-led approaches to technology. Other industries or companies may be starting to chip away at the responsibilities in roles, replacing these with AI in ways that can see positions devalued or potentially obsolete in the future.

The medical industry is a good example of this. There are a range of careers in telehealth that offer opportunities for professionals to connect with patients remotely. Gaining one of these roles naturally requires candidates to demonstrate their technical expertise and soft skills related to patient care. However, it’s also important to examine job postings for elements related to the use of AI software platforms. If these positions use AI as diagnosis or administrative support systems, this may suggest a positive collaborative approach. But if descriptions of software use are aimed at tasks that require skill and knowledge, this could be a red flag.

Some uses of AI won’t be immediately obvious from job descriptions. You may find it helpful to take the time to speak to people already in these roles. Ask about how their employers are currently using AI. Read industry press to establish whether companies are taking an ethical approach to adopting this software in ways that improve employee experiences rather than reduce human impact. Be picky about applying for positions with companies who show they care about workers rather than software.

Representing Your Human Value

At their best, AI platforms provide efficiency and accuracy in both simple and complex tasks. This is not something that most human workers can hope to compete with. After all, you can’t perform analysis as quickly as AI can and you need to rest, while computers don’t. This is why your job security can be supported by your ability to regularly demonstrate the value you, as a human contributor, provide in your profession.

Primarily, this is likely to include your potential for innovation and creativity. These are aspects that AI can’t effectively implement unilaterally at the moment. The algorithm doesn’t have the depth of human emotion, cultural experience, or unique perspectives that allow it to generate new ideas on its own. By continually developing and demonstrating your outside-of-the-box thinking and iterative skills, you can help safeguard your position.

It’s also important not to overlook how vital personality traits can be to a business. Even though AI may be good for certain practical actions, it is likely to struggle with making genuine interpersonal connections with colleagues, industry partners, and customers. Take the time to cultivate skills that are related to building relationships. Target the industries that value this the most. This could include prioritizing roles in healthcare, customer service, and education, among others.

Conclusion

There’s little escaping the fact that the growing advances in AI can present threats to job security. It’s worth focusing on training and applying for roles that are less likely to be replaced by AI. It’s also important to be selective about applying for jobs in industries and businesses that take a responsible approach to this tech. In addition, you should take the time to regularly demonstrate creative, innovative, and interpersonal skills that AI struggles to contribute. The next few years are likely to see changes and your efforts to prepare may help you navigate these.

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About the author: Miles Oliver is a freelance contributor whose writing focuses on professional development. You can reach him at moliverpages@gmail.com