Automation – How to Rise Above it

The robotic revolution is almost here, and no, it’s not the apocalypse you think it is. Yes, robots are taking over our jobs thanks to technological advancements. Jobs that seemed irreplaceable even some 10 years ago are now being taken over by automation. According to a study, about 400 to 800 million jobs today will succumb to automation in the next decade. However, should you hit the panic button now? Not just yet. You could wait at least until you reach the end of this piece because we are committed to helping you understand the automation revolution, its implications, and how you can secure your future when it is finally here.

It’s Not As Widespread As You Would Expect

The predictable physical jobs are the most susceptible, as robots can do these tasks at an economical price with minimal errors and no downtime. Jobs like floor work in a manufacturing unit; collecting, entering and processing data; and paralegal and paramedical roles can easily be programmed into robots. However, unpredictable physical work like raising livestock is much less vulnerable.

Read on to know more about whether automation will affect your job more than others and how to tackle the implications.

1. See Where You Stand

Yes, automation is on the rise and it is expected to make many jobs redundant. However, is your job really at risk in the near future? Don’t get us wrong, we want you to be prepared regardless, but it helps to know how replaceable your job is and chart out a revised career plan accordingly. Take a quick look at how vulnerable your job is to automation. Some jobs are more susceptible to automation than others so it pays to know in which pocket you belong.

2. Expand Your Skill Set

The more varied your skill set is, the more valuable a resource you are as a professional. Attend training sessions that will teach you skills that complement your job profile. Also, don’t hesitate to sign up for something completely different. The idea is that the more skills you have, the less likely you are to be replaced by robots. Also, no one can predict the future at this rate of advancement. If your job is going to be redundant in a few years, it’s always good to have a backup.

Do you have what it takes to excel as an automation professional?

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3. Get Good Education

Jobs in manufacturing, data entry, and content creation are being taken over by robots. However, according to a piece in the New York Times, automation is yet to be a competition for people who are highly educated and hold relevant jobs. The article also stresses that just being well-educated is not enough. You also need to keep up with the current advancements in your field and stay ahead of the curve through research about your industry.

4. Learn Managerial Skills

Currently, automation is making life easier by executing tasks that may not require strategising. We are far away from a future that automates managing human resources. So, take on more tasks, think of the big picture when you present ideas and strategies, be a part of the problem-solving team and find ways to motivate your team members and yourself. Automation is yet to replicate what managers and directors do, so having leadership qualities can be a safe bet.

Not sure if you have all the above skills to excel in automation? 

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5. Familiarise Yourself with Technology.

There is no alternative to this. Job automation or not, the whole world is moving towards integrating technology at the workplace and you have to be on board. If automation is introduced in your job profile, make sure you use it to your advantage. To do so, you will need to be technologically adept. Spend some time learning about relevant software applications and devices. Also, keep yourself updated with the technology being employed in your industry. Overall, get comfortable with the idea of using technology to optimise your output.

6. Be More Proactive

No, this is not generic advice. The more “human” you bring to your job, the more irreplaceable you are. If you are simply about finishing tasks and moving onto the next, you are not really adding value to your company or your team. Furthermore, you are creating the impression that anyone can do your job. Instead, take interest in what you do. If you think you cannot possibly do this at your current job, don’t worry. You probably haven’t found your dream job yet. In which case, come talk to us; our team of counsellors will help you pick a job you could be passionate about.

7. Embrace Change

Finally, don’t resist change – we know it is easier said than done. However, think of it this way, automation is going to take place whether or not you embrace it. Every organisation wants to optimise their output, and technology is the way to go. Learn to adapt and improvise so you can contribute to the company’s success. Employees that exhibit open attitudes are coveted as they add more value to the company

AI is going to take over a lot of jobs, there are no two ways about it. The only question that arises is – are you okay with being the one that gets left behind in the process?

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