Artificial intelligence continues to reshape the labor market, as indicated by a data survey conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF). According to the report, 41% of employers are planning to decrease their workforce due to the automation of tasks. The study, which included input from numerous large companies worldwide, highlights the ongoing impact of AI on job roles.
Interestingly, 77% of employers are looking to invest in retraining their employees from 2025 to 2030 to ensure they can effectively collaborate with AI. Notably, the latest WEF report differs from the 2023 version by not asserting that technology, including AI, will have an overwhelmingly positive effect on job numbers.
WEF representatives suggest that the evolution of AI alongside renewable energy is shaping a new landscape in the labor market, with a surge in demand for technical and specialized roles while decreasing the need for positions like graphic designers.
Generative AI, capable of generating texts, images, and other content upon request, is identified as a key driver of change. The WEF underscores the impact of generative AI across various industries and tasks.
Professions expected to see a rapid decline in employment include postal service workers, executive secretaries, and payroll clerks. Graphic designers and legal secretaries are also vulnerable for the first time, highlighting AI’s increasing capability to handle intellectual tasks.
However, the demand for AI-related skills is on the rise. Approximately 70% of companies plan to hire specialists to develop AI-based tools, while 62% aim to reinforce their workforce with employees who can effectively collaborate with AI.
Despite concerns, generative AI’s primary impact is anticipated to enhance human performance through collaboration between humans and machines, rather than outright replacing individuals. This underscores the importance of human-centric skills focused on interaction.
Nonetheless, in recent years, many workers have experienced job loss due to AI implementation. Companies like Dropbox and Duolingo have publicly cited technology-driven work optimization as a contributing factor to workforce reductions.