If you’ve ever wondered how technology might affect your career, you’re in good company. The impact of AI on employment stirs up plenty of debate—some predict widespread job cuts, while others see an opportunity for increased productivity and new roles.
Take Mark Quinn, for example. This tech executive experienced the shift firsthand when AI systems rendered his role redundant. Still, he remains upbeat, believing that adapting and upskilling is key to navigating these rapid changes.
There’s also a sense of uncertainty among experts. Gary Hamel at the London Business School admits, “We honestly don’t know,” as he points out that large language models and generative AI bring as many questions as they do promise. It’s a reminder that while the potential is huge, the road ahead remains largely uncharted.
Some jobs might evolve or disappear, but many will transform into roles that lean on AI to boost efficiency. Goldman Sachs has even warned that automation could impact 300 million full‑time positions globally. Meanwhile, Salesforce’s Marc Benioff believes that AI tools could enhance coder productivity enough to offset the need for extra hiring.
Adam Brotman, cofounder of Forum3, puts it succinctly: he compares AI to an “Iron Man suit” for workers. He sees the technology not as a job stealer, but as a means to power up your work, even if it takes a bit of adjustment in the early days.
Ravin Jesuthasan from Mercer advises focusing on individual tasks rather than entire job roles. As workplaces incorporate AI, reshaping responsibilities and maintaining ethical standards will be crucial to ensuring the technology truly serves as an asset.
Mark Quinn’s journey, from feeling the disruption to thriving at Pearl, underscores a vital takeaway—staying updated by learning new skills is more important than ever. In a world where AI can be both a tool for efficiency and a catalyst for innovation, being prepared makes all the difference.
