Global Report Places India Second in Optimism Regarding Artificial Intelligence's Impact on Job Outlook Worldwide
In a recent survey by ADP Research, the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on jobs was examined across various sectors and regions worldwide. The study involved 38,000 working adults from six continents.
Globally, 17% of employees strongly agree and 13% agree that AI will improve their jobs next year. However, concerns about job replacement persist, with around 10% of global employees expressing worry about being replaced by AI.
In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, 22% of employees from the mentioned sectors expect AI to improve their jobs over the next year. The Middle East and Africa follow closely with 27%, while Europe and North America show slightly lower optimism at 11% and 13%, respectively. Latin America exhibits the highest level of optimism, with 19% of respondents believing AI will improve their jobs.
Industries in India that show the most optimism towards AI's impact on jobs include technology services, banking, insurance, and information sectors. Employees in these sectors largely believe AI will positively improve their jobs, with about 34% of Indians overall feeling optimistic about AI's effect on their employment. Knowledge workers and mid-career professionals especially see AI as a potential enhancer of job quality and productivity.
However, concerns regarding job replacement are prevalent. Around 30% of respondents in India believed they could be replaced by AI and were actively seeking new jobs, while another 16% felt threatened but had not started looking. These worries are more pronounced among younger professionals.
The major concerns surrounding job replacement stem from automation and generative AI leading to layoffs or restructuring, especially after a tech hiring boom and amid global economic uncertainties. The potential for AI to replace traditional jobs faster than new jobs can be created is another significant concern, with some voices warning that up to 80% of jobs could be affected within five years.
The need for employees and employers to focus on upskilling and reskilling, particularly in AI-related skills, to remain competitive and secure is a critical aspect of addressing these concerns.
In summary, while AI poses disruption risks, it also offers significant opportunities if managed with adequate investment, training, and transparent dialogue between employers and employees. The consensus is that India, particularly its technology services, banking, insurance, and information sectors, stands to benefit from AI, but the focus must be on addressing job replacement concerns through upskilling and reskilling initiatives.
Rahul Goyal, MD, ADP India and Southeast Asia, notes that AI is reshaping how people work and how employees feel about the future of their jobs. The study underscores the need for continued dialogue and action to ensure that the benefits of AI are fully realised while minimising potential negative impacts on employment.
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