Ever since the release of ChatGPT in September 2022, there has been a lot of buzz concerning AI. The leading question is “Is AI going to take my job?”
The backstory….
Before we get into the answer, let’s first get into the sequence of events leading to that question. In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology with significant implications for the job market.
AI generally refers to software and computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as problem-solving, pattern recognition, and decision-making. A classic example is Apple’s virtual assistant, Siri.
In light of recent events, the impact of AI on the job market is multifaceted. On one hand, AI has the potential to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and drive innovation across industries. It can automate repetitive and mundane tasks, freeing up employees to focus on more complex and strategic activities.
On the other hand, its integration into workplaces also raises concerns about job displacement and disruption. As AI technology continues to advance, certain tasks and roles that were traditionally performed by humans are becoming automated.
This automation has the potential to render some jobs obsolete, particularly those involving routine and predictable tasks.
Take the banking industry as a good example. In the past, cashiers were responsible for disbursing cash to bank customers. However in recent years, Automated Teller Machines have taken over.
Beyond ATMs, the system of online banking has been implemented. With online banking, Automatic bank transactions can now take place without your active input, due to the powers of AI.
Other Industries such as manufacturing, transportation, customer service, business and data analysis are also experiencing significant changes due to AI.
Even non-predictable tasks are being threatened with automation. The creative industry is especially overcome with fear. Generative AIs like ChatGPT have been touted to be capable of replacing an entire creative team.
Since late 2022, entrepreneurs on Twitter pushed out Viral tweets that outlined the ways AI is cheaper and can cut down on the average employer’s running cost.
For the typical person who has been working hard at the same job for years. This sounds like a threat to livelihood. But I dare to challenge you. What if you are actually looking at this all wrong? Majority are looking at the glass half empty.
Look at the glass half full.
While AI may eliminate certain job roles, it also creates new opportunities. As AI takes over repetitive tasks, industries are experiencing higher demand for candidates with critical thinking and logical reasoning skills. And with this demand comes higher pay. Taking this approach, see this as a chance for humans to focus on what brings the highest value. A classic application of Pareto’s principle.
Because of AI, we can focus on the 20% that yields the most reward and leave the 80% low yield activities to AI.
It’s like a pandemic, but one that we should welcome with open arms. The global labor market is witnessing rapid adaptation. Every employee can now have AI assistants that would augment their human capabilities, leading to the creation of hybrid roles that combine human skills with AI support.
This of course is just the tip of the iceberg. The impact of AI on the job market is still evolving, and its full extent remains uncertain. However one thing remains crystal clear. There is a need to adapt and develop strategies to protect employment in this changing landscape.
To cut to the chase…
The answer to the burning question “Are Generated AIs coming to take my job?” is No. Let’s analyze something really quickly.
One thing that is conveniently overlooked is the concept of “artificial” in “Artificial Intelligence”. It is man made intelligence. Humans remain the source. That points to something- we would always be a step ahead.
The bane of the existence of Artificial intelligence is to make life easier for the common human. Observe the intricate pattern: the jobs eliminated by AI are jobs that don’t need a high level of intelligence to complete.
So if you’re scared that AI technology lurks within the shadows with a smirk plastered on its face and a resumé in hand to replace you at your job, think again.
The entire point of AI is to boost convenience, to make repetitive low yield work a breeze thereby allowing humans to collectively leave the shackles of mediocrity to achieve new heights of intellectual capacity. If your work can be done by AI, all you have to do is achieve an even higher level of intelligence, better than what AI can do, through Upskilling.
In addition to upskilling, befriend the “enemy”. Just like every other human creation, Artificial Intelligence has its loopholes.
Integrating AI and exploring the technology would inadvertently lead to the discovery of its limitations- the perfect opportunity for you to display your human abilities.
By understanding the role of AI, cultivating uniquely human skills (what AI can’t imitate), embracing technology as a tool, and staying adaptable, you can position yourself for success in an AI-driven job market.
Beating Artificial Intelligence
In your quest to increase your skill set, seek to acquire uniquely human skills like;
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Creativity. The ability to generate original ideas, think outside the box, and come up with innovative solutions is a highly valuable skill that is difficult to automate.
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The capacity to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and make reasoned judgments which sums up to the skill of Critical thinking, is highly valued and difficult to imitate.
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Emotional Intelligence. The concept of EI involves understanding and managing emotions, both in self and in others. Skills such as empathy, communication, collaboration, and relationship-building are difficult to replicate with AI. No one wants to talk to a soulless machine.
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Complex Problem-Solving, the ability to tackle intricate problems that require analysis, evaluation, and strategic thinking is a skill that remains largely in the domain of human expertise. There is an increased demand for employees who are able to involve strategic planning, project management, and crisis management to navigate ambiguous situations and make sound decisions.
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Complex Communication. While AI can handle basic communication tasks, complex communication skills, such as persuasive speaking, negotiation, active listening, and storytelling, remain uniquely human. These skills are vital in many businesses and companies. Sales, marketing, public relations, and customer relationship management are based on communication therefore this calls for human expertise.
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Leadership and Management. Even though AI can assist with data analysis and decision-making, effective leadership and management require skills such as strategic thinking, motivating teams, providing guidance, and resolving conflicts. Leadership skills, an aggregate of the ability to inspire and influence others, are essentially humane and can not be delegated to Artificial intelligence.
Although this differs across industries and professions, a surefire way to acquire uniquely human skills is to network and rub hands with the top guns in your industry. Take the role of a detective to observe the skills and abilities that make them irreplaceable.
The take home
AI has its limitations. The creation depends on the creator to survive. Attain a higher position in the human intelligence hierarchy in order to always be one step ahead of the abilities of Artificial Intelligence.