Thinking of career change?

The increasing role of digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and automation means many jobs are be at risk of being completely transformed or may no longer exist over the medium to long term.

According to a report by consultants PwC, almost a third (30%) of all jobs are at risk of automation by the mid-2030s, with 44% of less skilled roles most likely to be affected.

Automation will also affect skilled and professional jobs, such as administrative functions and legal and financial services, where computer algorithms may be able to make decisions or complete tasks faster, more reliably and more cheaply than people.

While there are jobs that are unlikely to be automated – like the creative industries, science, healthcare, education, client management, and manual roles like construction workers, plumbers, electricians – AI and automation are likely to change how they work.

AI and automation are also likely to create new jobs and opportunities, including ones that we can’t imagine yet.

Future-proofing skills

It’s important to ensure that you can adapt to the changing nature of employment and stay relevant in the workplace by future-proofing your skills.

For many people, this means a combination of soft skills like how you approach and think about problems, as well as the day-to-day duties of your role.

Training and lifelong learning

Education doesn’t end when you finish school, university or qualify for a professional role. The workplace of the future will require everyone to improve their skills, knowledge and expertise throughout their careers.

This could be through formal training or qualifications, professional development or workplace experience.

Interpersonal skills

AI and automation are likely to make interaction with other people more important, meaning developing interpersonal skills will be a central part of the workplace of tomorrow.

Interpersonal skills include leadership, team and collaborative working, negotiation and decision making.

Thinking creatively

Computers are good at providing data and the tools for analysis, but can’t draw conclusions or solve problems. These require creative thinking skills, such as critical judgement, analysis, and developing new ideas and processes.

Keeping up to date with technology

Roles that will be complimented by technology – think about how the how computers and the internet have changed almost all types of work in the past couple of decades

Important to keep up to date with how technology changes – not about using every new app or gadget but the broader context of how technology impacts the way we work.

Supporting your development

The Government’s National Career Service is here to provide information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work. It can give you:

• Personalised career advice
• Help with improving your skills and experience
• Information on career prospects and what the work would be like.