The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the workplace is set to dramatically reshape the global labor market. According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report, 41% of companies worldwide plan to reduce their workforces by 2030 as AI automates a wide array of tasks. Jobs such as postal clerks, executive secretaries, and payroll clerks are among those expected to decline the fastest, with AI playing a key part, CNN reports.
“The presence of both graphic designers and legal secretaries just outside the top 10 fastest-declining job roles, a first-time prediction not seen in previous editions of the Future of Jobs Report, may illustrate GenAI’s increasing capacity to perform knowledge work,” the report said.
Despite these reductions, many companies are also preparing for an AI-powered future by investing in reskilling and upskilling initiatives. The WEF report highlights that 77% of businesses plan to train their employees to work alongside AI systems or develop AI-specific skills, according to Success.com.
“Advances in AI and renewable energy are reshaping the (labor) market — driving an increase in demand for many technology or specialist roles while driving a decline for others, such as graphic designers,” the WEF said in a press release
Nearly 40% of employees’ current skills could become outdated by 2030. Companies face challenges in identifying future skill requirements and addressing widening skills gaps. Still, 85% of employers aim to prioritize upskilling their workforce.
Generative AI promises to revolutionize monotonous tasks such as email drafting and data collection.
The report did stress optimism, suggesting that the primary impact of technologies like generative AI may be in enhancing human skills through “human-machine collaboration” rather than outright job replacement, emphasizing the ongoing importance of human-centered skills.
Ultimately, the report underscores the importance of reskilling as workers navigate an evolving landscape, emphasizing that those who embrace lifelong learning and adaptability will thrive in the era of AI.