The problem is that as people predict the impact of artificial intelligence in the workplace, it has become a combat story where humans are pitted against robots. In a spirit of fear, they describe a world where AI-powered technologies take over jobs, make skills obsolete, and skyrocket unemployment rates.
Yes, AI will change millions of jobs. It’s likely that many jobs that require humans to man vehicles will be replaced by self-driving cars. Some factory positions could be automated by robots or deemed obsolete by 3D printers. Even for those who consider their output creative are not entirely safe. AI technologies have painted portraits, composed symphonies, and even produced recipes.
But the realities around our AI-enabled future are not all negative. Many argue that AI will create new, more interesting jobs. Others predict a massive economic revival, potentially increasing labor productivity by up to 40% by 2035. Even the White House is considering how AI could revitalize security, education, infrastructure, and public policy.
To say the least, thinking about how AI will alter the modern workforce is an exciting, yet unsettling thought. And in times of immense change, it’s human nature to want to reduce a complicated situation to a good guy and a bad guy. But it’s more complex than that.
AI is not a story of human versus machine. Instead, it’s human and machine versus problem.
By automating and optimizing the repetitive tasks of your job, AI will give you more time to focus on your customers. That way, you can build meaningful relationships, spend more time on strategic initiatives, and ultimately, be more human.
“[AI]'s definition is about helping professionals be more impactful in their jobs,” said Sheinkin. “It is helping doctors make better diagnoses. It is helping film editors make better films. It's helping musicians make better music. It's helping marketers make better bids on paid media. It is about augmenting human intelligence with capabilities that just aren't available through traditional technology.”