The future of work: Fears and facts about AI in the workplace
Learn the impact of AI on tech job security and strategies for technologists to future-proof their careers with AI training and new technology adoption.
Apr 15, 2024 • 4 Minute Read
“Will AI take my job?” There’s no question about it: AI will impact your job. It probably already has. The question then becomes how to handle these changes.
We surveyed 1,200 technologists and executives to understand their thoughts on the AI landscape and how it’s impacting their careers. Here’s what we found.
Get the AI insights you need to get ahead—read the full Pluralsight AI skills report.
Table of contents
The impact of AI on job losses and job creation
Organizations are already benefiting from AI adoption, citing increases in productivity, customer service enhancements, and fewer repetitive tasks.
Many technologists are also using AI tools on their own to improve efficiency and reduce human error. In fact, 69% of IT professionals believe AI will make their jobs easier.
It’s also increasing demand for new jobs, such as prompt engineers. But AI is a double-edged sword.
Technologists worry AI will take their jobs
As AI makes lives easier, technologists worry it will replace them. 69% think they’re at least somewhat at risk of being replaced by AI. And nearly three in four IT practitioners worry the skills they use in their daily role will become obsolete very quickly because of AI tools.
The bottom line: While many technologists are excited by the possibilities of AI, they also feel threatened by it.
Executives plan to outsource or eliminate roles due to AI
Tech professionals’ job security concerns aren’t unfounded. 35% of executives believe their organizations are investing in AI tools and technology to eliminate unnecessary positions.
The average number of positions they think they can replace with AI? 14%. On top of that, 91% of executives are at least somewhat likely to replace or outsource talent to successfully deploy AI initiatives.
The bottom line: To leverage AI effectively, leaders need to look beyond role elimination and outsourcing to upskilling and reskilling.
Technologists: Navigating technology adoption and advancement with AI skills
If you’re worried about job security, you know these concerns won’t go away. But there are some things you can do to stay relevant and, hopefully, feel more confident in your career.
Start learning in-demand tech skills with the rise of AI
45% of software developers report worry, anxiety, and fear about whether they can succeed in this era with their current technical skill set. For many technologists, the solution for this is to upskill and learn how to use AI. In fact, 96% of IT professionals say staying up to date with AI skills is the best way to ensure their job security in a competitive market.
Start learning AI skills. Build AI applications. Understand the foundations of AI and ML regardless of your role. Gain hands-on practice with tools like ChatGPT and Claude.
The more you learn, the more you can leverage your organization’s AI tools, use them to drive value, and show yourself as an indispensable part of the team. Not sure where to get started? Learn the skills you need to use AI and the tech skills you need to stay relevant.
Strengthen existing skills
AI can automate tasks, simplify processes, and even write code. But it isn’t perfect. Organizations need people with soft skills to use AI tools effectively. Strengthen soft skills like communication, critical thinking, and empathy. Enhance your strategy and decision-making skills. Understand the skills and jobs that AI can’t replace.
Leaders: Strengthening leadership in the AI era of emerging technologies
As you implement AI tools and technology in your organization, it’s important to understand your long-term strategy and your teams’ perspectives on your AI investments.
Encourage AI education and training initiatives
Both executives and IT professionals believe investing in talent, training, and creating the right culture are the most important steps an organization should take to prepare for emerging AI technology.
Invest in AI training and upskilling for the near future
Speed is critical to AI adoption and maintaining a competitive advantage. That’s likely why the vast majority of leaders plan to outsource talent to implement AI technology. It’s faster than hiring new talent or upskilling existing employees.
But if you want to build a lasting AI strategy for your business, outsourcing isn’t always the best solution. There’s no guarantee you’ll find the talent you need in the market. Instead, consider upskilling existing talent in the exact AI and ML skills you need. You’ll boost in-house skills, show employees you’re invested in their growth and development, and reduce job security fears.
And if you plan to eliminate certain roles due to AI, think about how you can upskill those individuals for new roles instead.
Prevent a negative impact of artificial intelligence on employment
Even if they don’t say it out loud, technologists may be worried about their job with the rise of AI. Listen to their concerns and give them the resources they need to use AI tools effectively. This includes time to learn AI skills on the job and a clear strategy for AI adoption and how they fit in it.
The future of work with AI in the workplace
As an emerging technology, AI presents risks and benefits, especially when it comes to jobs and job security. But learning how to use AI will be key to meeting the future of work head on.
To learn more about the AI landscape and its impact on the workplace, check out the Pluralsight AI skills report and explore our AI solution.
