The Changing Landscape of Jobs
In a world where AI and ChatGPT are increasingly performing tasks traditionally done by employees, the impact on jobs is a topic of concern. While some fear the loss of jobs, it’s important to note that AI is more likely to disrupt rather than eliminate them. Goldman Sachs economists predicted that generative AI tools could impact 300 million full-time jobs worldwide, which is a significant disruption in the job market. However, this represents just 10% of the global workforce, and not all jobs will be equally affected.
Many jobs in the labor category may experience less impact compared to others. As one product becomes obsolete, another product often resurfaces and replaces lost jobs. This pattern can be seen in various industries, such as the vinyl record industry, which gave way to 8-track tapes, followed by cassette tapes, CDs, and now streaming services. Jobs shifted within the industry or found similar roles in other sectors.
The Need for Adaptability and New Skills
As AI and ChatGPT technology continue to advance, employees must be flexible, learn new skills, and be willing to adapt to new job opportunities. The customer service and support sector, in particular, has seen the rise of digital self-service tools like chatbots and interactive voice response systems. However, studies show that the phone remains the preferred method of communication for most customers.
A survey conducted by Capterra revealed that only 9% of companies in the customer support industry have reduced staff due to AI. Instead, AI and other technologies assist in handling low-level queries, allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues. The shift to digital platforms in other industries, such as airlines, also created new jobs related to managing online platforms and supporting customers with more complicated travel itineraries.
The Transformative Nature of AI
While AI does eliminate some jobs, particularly those requiring low cognitive skills, it also creates new opportunities. The development, maintenance, and improvement of AI technologies require a skilled workforce. Furthermore, AI advancements often lead to the discovery and development of new industries, which will require additional workers.
Overall, AI will not eliminate jobs, but it will undoubtedly change the job market. Whether this change is seen as scary or exciting is subjective. Just as one can see a glass of water as half-full or half-empty, individuals can choose to embrace the transformative power of AI and align their skills with the evolving demands of the job market.
