is 2024 the year AI finally takes your job?

Is 2024 the year AI takes your job? 

Have you found yourself questioning whether your job is safe with artificial intelligence (AI) coming to take over the world? 

I wouldn’t blame you if you had. 

In the ever evolving landscape of technology, the rise of AI has sparked concerns about job security. In this week’s musing I wanted to highlight a secret weapon that we have as humans that machines just can’t compete with - emotional intelligence. You will find actionable steps for both individuals and managers to safeguard their positions and support their teams through the implementation of AI.

Personally, last year we saw the ramp up of experiments integrating AI into organisations and our homes. So like most I started researching to understand how it works, what AI tools are available, what AI tools are in the pipeline and what impact it will have on the world of work and selfishly me as a human. 

Chat GPT anyone? 

The reality is, we have never experienced a world with this level of AI before, it’s coming out the gates at a rapid rate and we’re not really sure on what this means for us.

Everyone I speak to keeps saying that 2024 is going to be the breakthrough year for AI. 

But are you ready for it? 

While we have no idea what roles will be available in the next 5 to 10 years, it’s safe to say that they will be different to what we have now. As we see machines continue to perform tasks that traditionally humans did, it further emphasises the need to adapt our skills. 

I titled this week's musing “2024 is the year AI will take your job” for a reason. Understanding the threat is the first step in preparing yourself as you move through a changing landscape. With the excitement of having AI rolled out, it also brings with it the possibility of automation replacing certain job functions. Cue the questions and fear. 
What if my job is one of them? What does my life look like in 6-12 months? How will AI run a whole department? 

There is a secret weapon we like to call emotional intelligence that might help to put your mind at ease. That’s if you are emotionally intelligent, if not we’ve got some work to do and that’s definitely where I come in.
Unlike machines, humans possess emotional intelligence - the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and empathise with others. This skill set becomes invaluable as it can't be replicated by AI, making it a key factor in job retention and success in your career and/or business.

Adaptability and resilience will be more important as AI continues to transform industries. Emotionally intelligent individuals are more adaptable and resilient in the face of change. Those who can navigate uncertainty with emotional resilience will be better positioned to thrive.

Individuals face a different challenge to leaders in organisations. While leaders are tasked with trying to predict the future and the impact of AI for their department and teams, they are also focused on keeping up employee morale whilst adapting on the fly. Meanwhile individuals are worried about how they keep their job or how they should start preparing themselves for change. 

To prepare for further integration of AI in our lives, you should invest in your self development. The reality is the people who are already investing in their own personal development to enhance their soft skills and build new skills ready for an AI world are already miles ahead of you. 

We can’t continue to do the same things we’ve always done and expect a different result. Invest in courses, workshops, masterclasses and continue to upskill yourself to be ready for the impending changes. Read a book, read blogs, listen to podcasts and focus on the skills that machines can’t learn. 

Human skills. Emotional intelligence. Creativity. Critical thinking. Ethical decision making. Leadership and influence.

If you are a leader in an organisation you have the added responsibility of supporting your team members through the transition. It’s a double edged sword as you are dealing with it yourself but also managing it for others at the same time.

Proactively educate your team about the implications of AI on your industry and the organisation. There is nothing more unsettling than worrying about your job security so don’t keep it all a secret if you don’t legally have to. 

As leaders, you will build trust through being transparent coupled with alleviating any concerns your team may have. 

Encourage a culture of continuous learning within your team and organisation. Ensure your team members have access to training so they can upskill on both technical and soft skills to ensure they are well equipped to adapt to evolving roles. 

This will be ever evolving so investing time and resources into this should be a priority in 2024 and beyond. 

Emphasise emotional intelligence in leadership. Lead by example in demonstrating and show the value of cultivating emotional intelligence. Your managers who exhibit empathy and strong interpersonal skills set the tone for a positive and collaborative work environment.

Leaders play a crucial role in supporting their teams through the AI exploration and implementation process, emphasising the value of human skills in tandem with technological advancements. 

AI presents both challenges and opportunities. By recognising the importance of emotional intelligence and taking proactive steps to develop these skills, individuals can not only safeguard their positions but also thrive in a professional landscape increasingly shaped by technology.

Personally I believe emotional intelligence will be a key differentiator in achieving career success in an AI world. 

I help individuals and leaders enhance their emotional intelligence and self awareness through one on one coaching, group programs and online courses. Book a free discovery call to explore options that may suit your needs.