Artificial Intelligence Is Overpowering Certain Jobs, Yet There Exist Solutions for Human Employment Preservation
In the ever-evolving world of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) is making significant strides, according to workplace expert and executive coach, Julie Jones. This rapid advancement poses challenges for individuals, particularly college students preparing for the job market.
The emergence of new AI software and uses is a recurring issue, making it challenging for individuals to stay informed. AI is not only revolutionising industries but also taking the place of some jobs, including entry-level positions. This shift has resulted in job losses, with recent college graduates being the most affected.
However, instead of viewing AI as a threat, Ms. Jones encourages a proactive approach. She advises college students to focus on developing job-ready skills beyond a traditional degree. This includes earning micro-credentials and digital badges, building a strong online personal brand, and gaining practical experience through internships, job shadowing, or apprenticeships.
Collaborating with employers and industry advisors to align educational experiences with labor market demands is another key strategy. Earning micro-credentials or certifications can demonstrate mastery of specific skills that employers increasingly value over just degrees. Building and managing a targeted online presence can help students differentiate themselves in competitive job markets.
Engaging in internships, part-time jobs, or externships provides real-world experience and allows students to explore career interests while still in school. Developing a strong foundation in both technical skills (e.g., software proficiency, AI tools) and soft skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, empathy, and adaptability is crucial for future workplaces.
Ms. Jones also suggests considering alternative career paths such as skilled trades or entrepreneurship, which may offer more stable employment and less student debt risk amid challenging job markets for new graduates. Leveraging free or low-cost online resources to upskill continuously, focusing on emerging trends like AI prompt engineering or managing AI outputs, is another valuable strategy.
Preparing mentally for a competitive job search by building a support network is also essential. This approach equips students to navigate evolving employment landscapes where AI is automating routine tasks and employers seek adaptable, skilled candidates prepared for complex roles from day one.
In conclusion, the challenge of staying informed about AI and its constant evolution is a common issue. However, by adopting a proactive approach, focusing on developing relevant skills, and staying adaptable, college students can navigate the job market amid AI's growing impact.
[1] Adaptability Labs. (2021). AI and the Future of Work: Preparing Students for the New Economy. Retrieved from https://www.adaptability.org/ai-and-the-future-of-work-preparing-students-for-the-new-economy/
[2] Burning Glass Technologies. (2019). The Skills Gap in the AI Economy. Retrieved from https://www.burning-glass.com/research/the-skills-gap-in-the-ai-economy/
[3] McKinsey & Company. (2019). Jobs lost, jobs gained: What the future of work will mean for jobs, skills, and wages. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/mckinsey-analytics/our-insights/jobs-lost-jobs-gained-what-the-future-of-work-will-mean-for-jobs-skills-and-wages
[4] World Economic Forum. (2020). Reskilling the global workforce: A roadmap for the future of work. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/reports/reskilling-the-global-workforce-2020
[5] World Economic Forum. (2021). The Future of Jobs Report 2020. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020
- In the ever-evolving world of technology, where artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries and taking over some entry-level positions, college students are advised to focus on developing job-ready skills beyond a traditional degree, such as earning micro-credentials and digital badges, building a strong online personal brand, and gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships.
- The emergence of AI prompt engineering or managing AI outputs is an emerging trend that college students should consider as they upskill continuously, in order to stay adaptable and navigate the job market amid AI's growing impact on the economy.
