Is AI Coming for Your Job?

Exploring AI is pretty fun. I've discovered the many efficiencies it creates. I stay on top of the latest developments in AI and continue to educate myself, recently obtaining my certification as an AI-Powered Coach. However, I’ll admit this new frontier makes me anxious.

Why? Because no one can predict exactly where this technology is headed or how it will affect each of us. In fact, Walmart Chief Executive Doug McMillon recently said, “It’s very clear that AI is going to change literally every job.”

Without a clear picture of how AI and technology could impact your career, what should you do? Stick your head in the sand and hope for the best? Absolutely not.

What you should do is create a career back-up plan. If you want continued success in your career, you should always be proactive. I’ve long advocated that people have a career back-up plan even if they are perfectly happy. The worst thing you can do is think your job is safe. To be blunt, no career is "safe".

I’ve seen this scenario too many times: an employee spends 25 years at the same company, believing their loyalty and impact will protect them. Then—out of nowhere—they’re handed a layoff notice. They don't know where to begin. And they are definitely not in the right headspace to embark on a job search. In fact, they don’t even have a LinkedIn profile, because they never thought they’d need one. Starting from that point is excruciatingly difficult. Having a career back-up plan can soften the landing of these unexpected events that impact your career.

I’m not saying it’s time to panic. But it is wise to be prepared. AI is already changing the way we live and do business. A back-up plan gives you security and confidence, no matter what changes lie ahead. A few years ago, I wrote about how to build your back-up plan. You can read it here: “Do You Have a Career Back-up Plan?”

What’s your plan?