Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is poised to reshape the workforce landscape over the next five years, with a significant number of companies expected to employ fewer people, according to a study by staffing provider Adecco Group.
The survey, which gathered insights from senior executives at 2,000 large companies worldwide, revealed that 41% of respondents anticipate having smaller workforces due to the implementation of AI technology. This transformative trend is driven by advancements in Generative AI, enabling tasks such as text, photo, and video creation in response to open-ended prompts.
Tech giants like Google and Microsoft have already initiated layoffs as they pivot towards AI systems like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s chatbot Gemini. The survey findings echo a World Economic Forum study predicting job losses for 25% of companies due to AI, while 50% anticipate the creation of new roles.
While acknowledging the disruptive potential of AI, most executives admitted to lagging in technology adoption. Adecco CEO Denis Machuel emphasized the need for companies to proactively train their workforce to leverage AI’s capabilities rather than solely relying on external specialists.
Industries across defense, pharma, healthcare, industry, and logistics are bracing for AI-induced transformations, prompting Adecco to advocate for upskilling initiatives to navigate this evolving landscape effectively. The company itself has embraced AI, incorporating it into services like resume creation and client consulting projects.
In light of these developments, companies are urged to embrace AI as both a job killer and creator, preparing for a future where AI-driven jobs and tasks necessitate a flexible and adaptable workforce. Amidst concerns about job displacement, the broader consensus remains optimistic about the potential opportunities AI presents in enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation.
