Exploring the Artificial Intelligence Advancement: Key Insights from the Worldwide Future Labor Force Report
In the rapidly evolving world of work, Generative AI is making a significant impact, according to a recent study titled "Global Workforce of the Future." This comprehensive survey, which polled 30,000 people across 23 countries, has shed light on the transformative effects of AI on various sectors and the urgent need for upskilling.
The study reveals that Generative AI, the leading workplace trend for 2023, is expected to grow more prominent in 2024 and beyond. About 70% of workers are already using Generative AI, and this number is likely to increase. Companies worldwide are prioritizing the promotion of Generative AI integration within their organizations.
While AI is disrupting jobs globally, with significant portions of tasks affected across many roles, it is not only displacing jobs but also transforming them. For example, research by Eloundou et al. (2024) estimates that about 80% of the U.S. workforce could see at least 10% of their tasks impacted by large language models (LLMs), and approximately 19% of workers may have over half their tasks affected.
This disruption is already evidenced by declines in freelance contracts and earnings in AI-exposed occupations since 2022. Globally, about 41% of companies expect to reduce workforce due to AI automation by 2030, putting millions of jobs at risk, particularly in categories such as data entry, telemarketing, and basic customer support.
However, the study also highlights that while 92 million jobs worldwide may be displaced by AI and automation, 170 million new jobs could be created. This emphasizes job transformation rather than outright replacement. To bridge the gap created by AI disruption, upskilling and reskilling are critical. Policymakers and organizations are urged to invest in workforce reskilling and modernize labor protections to adapt to new AI-augmented roles.
Recommended measures include fostering adaptability and continuous learning, enhancing digital and AI literacy, and focusing on uniquely human skills such as creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex decision-making that complement AI capabilities. Supporting institutions that promote human-AI collaboration will help workers transition effectively in a rapidly evolving labor market.
Internal mobility and a focus on workers' well-being are also important for leaders to consider. The majority of workers find Generative AI captivating due to its enormous potential. However, only 8% of surveyed people believe that AI will make their roles obsolete. The majority (62%) of surveyed people believe that AI will have a positive impact on their job.
The debate about AI's impact on the world of work involves leaders, strategists, and workers across various industries. Change management, mapping new roles, and upskilling are necessary for leaders to navigate the near future. The study also highlighted other critical trends shaping the workplace, such as upskilling, wellbeing, and transferability of skills.
In conclusion, widespread AI-driven task disruption is imminent and affecting various sectors differently, with significant risks especially for routine and entry-level jobs. Comprehensive upskilling focused on collaboration with AI and human-centric skills is essential for mitigating job displacement and capitalizing on new opportunities created by AI advancements.
- The study predicts that Generative AI, a leading workplace trend, will become even more prominent in the future, with 70% of workers already using it and this number likely to increase.
- To mitigate job displacement caused by AI advancements and capitalize on new opportunities, comprehensive upskilling focused on collaboration with AI and human-centric skills is essential.
- Acknowledging the transformative impact of AI on jobs, the study emphasizes the importance of fostering adaptability and continuous learning, enhancing digital and AI literacy, and focusing on uniquely human skills.
