Generative AI is making waves in the corporate world. Business leaders are captivated by its
potential to streamline operations, unlock new revenue streams, and improve brand
reputation. But amidst this sheer excitement, one crucial question often gets overlooked:
what does Gen AI really mean for the everyday employee?
My background in AI consulting, executive search and market analysis have exposed me to
countless stories from the frontlines of the workforce. While organisations are busy
mapping out use cases, implementing risk controls and scaling infrastructure, employees are
left wondering how this technology will impact their careers and livelihoods. Will it
empower them to reinvent their ways of working or make them redundant while making
their skills irrelevant in the marketplace?
Let’s be honest, beyond the boardroom, most people aren’t losing sleep over Gen AI’s
potential to improve efficiency or enhance customer experiences. Their primary concern is
much more immediate: will it cost them their jobs?
It’s time to address the elephant in the room that your employer pretends to not notice.
While we can’t control the decisions of C-suite executives, we can prepare ourselves for the
potential impact of Gen AI. Let’s explore five possible scenarios, using, in my opinion,
relatable example of a Customer Service Representative:
Scenario 1: Doing More of the Same, Faster
Pros: Minimal disruption to your current role. You might be able to handle 20-30% more
inquiries with Gen AI assistance.
Cons: Increased pressure to process more, potentially unrealistic KPIs, and the burden of
reporting issues with the Gen AI tool, which …oh well … won’t do magic right away. It’s a
cycle of improvements and iterations.
Scenario 2: Time for Your Own Initiatives
Pros: Gen AI frees up time for you to pursue your own ideas and projects, potentially leading
to innovation, career growth and frankly, probably more fun.
Cons: Increased responsibility and pressure to deliver tangible results from your Gen AI-
enabled initiatives.
Scenario 3: Embracing a New Remit
Pros: Gen AI allows you to take on new, potentially more interesting tasks within your role,
expanding your skillset.
Cons: Potential for scope creep without a corresponding adjustment to title or
compensation. It’s crucial to set clear boundaries and expectations for both parties.
Scenario 4: Downsizing and Redundancy
Pros: Severance packages can provide a financial cushion while you explore new
opportunities. Job loss can often become a catalyst for personal and professional growth.
Cons: The emotional and financial strain of job loss, especially for those with families and
financial obligations.
Scenario 5: The “Attrition” Strategy
Pros: Opportunity to gain experience with cutting-edge technology while exploring other
options. You could become an invaluable asset by bridging the gap between AI and human
expertise.
Cons: Working in an environment where your role is seen as ultimately replaceable can be
demoralizing.
It’s all about navigating the unknown. How these scenarios play out for you depends on
several controllable factors: your attachment to your current role, your willingness to adapt
and learn new skills, and your overall career aspirations.
As AI increasingly becomes part of the workplace, those who embrace continuous learning
and develop uniquely human skills – critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence – will
be best positioned to thrive.
“Thinking is a human feature,” said renowned linguist Noam Chomsky. “Will AI someday
really think? That’s like asking if submarines swim. If you call it swimming, then robots will
think, yes.”
While Gen AI can mimic certain aspects of human intelligence, it can’t replicate our capacity
for critical thought, empathy, and complex problem-solving. By focusing on these strengths,
we can navigate the evolving landscape of work and forge a future where humans and AI
collaborate effectively.
What are your thoughts on the rise of Gen AI? Share your experiences and concerns in the
comments below and follow AI&I for more monthly insights!