AI: Enhancing Work not Replacing Humans

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the world of work in the UK (and beyond). The potential adverse impact of AI in the workplace is arguably more pronounced in the minds of employees than employers.

According to the results of a poll conducted by Randstad, over a quarter of UK workers surveyed were concerned their jobs would not exist within five years; and nearly half of UK office workers anticipated AI would be more beneficial to companies than to employees. On the other hand, Randstad's research with employers showed two thirds of employers had invested in AI in the past year; and employers were encouraging the use of AI.

The reality is arguably AI will enhance many roles, change others, and in some sectors replace certain tasks or jobs altogether. The key question is not whether work will change, but how people and organizations adapt to ensure better outcomes for workers and increased productivity for businesses.

How AI Enhances Human Work

In many workplaces, AI is already utilized as a productivity tool rather than a replacement for people. By automating repetitive or time-consuming tasks such as data entry, scheduling, or drafting routine documents, AI allows employees to focus on higher-order activities. These include creative thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and relationship building - areas where human judgment and emotional intelligence remain essential.

When used responsibly, AI can improve decision-making, support innovation and help employees work more efficiently and effectively.

Research suggests AI employment will be focused in professional, associate professional, corporate manager and director roles with significant job growth predicted in IT, research and business/finance roles.

Job Displacement Is Real

There is already evidence of job displacement affecting some sectors (e.g. retail) and the UK is lagging behind other economies in terms of creating jobs during an arguably inevitable transition. Morgan Stanley’s research suggested an 8% net reduction in jobs in transportation, retail and real estate.

All Change

However, history shows that technological advancement, radical change often lead to new types of work rather than permanent job losses. While some roles decline, new ones emerge requiring higher skills offering better long-term prospects and more interesting job roles. For instance, the Industrial Revolution led to the creation of new industries requiring new job roles.

The UK’s Proactive Approach

The UK government is taking active steps to support the transition to AI in the workplace. One major initiative is free AI training for all UK adults, aiming to equip 10 million workers with practical AI skills by 2030. These accessible courses help people understand and use AI confidently in everyday work, reducing fear and increasing opportunity.

In parallel, Skills England’s ‘Employer AI Adoption Checklist’ supports organisations in adopting AI responsibly. It helps businesses consider strategy, workforce skills, and capacity, facilitating AI implementation that enhances human work rather than undermines it.

Looking Ahead

AI does not have to replace humans to deliver productivity improvements. With the right skills, policies, and employer practices, AI can help create more productive, engaging, and resilient workplaces.

The future of work is not about choosing between humans and AI it is about enabling people to thrive alongside Artificial Intelligence.

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