Robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) are two technologies that are rapidly altering the ways people do things. Those technologies have also changed the workforce and jobs market, and they’ll continue to do that in 2019.
Here are six likely predictions.
1. Recruiters Will Have More Time to Find the Best Candidates
Recruiting for open positions is not a straightforward process, especially for the most in-demand roles that could attract dozens of applicants or more.
That’s why automation technology is an emerging trend human resources professionals will implement in 2019 even more than they are now. Without the help of such AI-driven tools, recruiters could devote approximately one-third of their workweeks to manually sourcing candidates.
When they use automated recruiting platforms instead, locating the most appropriate people for open jobs becomes a more efficient process. Plus, letting technology do some of the legwork means recruiters will have more time in their schedules for face-to-face meetings. Then, people that might otherwise get overlooked have chances to shine.
2. More Components of Jobs Will Be Suitable for Automation
Research suggests that about 60 percent of jobs have at least 30 percent of activities that could be automated.
As companies continue to explore ways to experiment with automation, people may find that their everyday tasks change. That’s because there’s a push to automate responsibilities that are dangerous, dirty or dull, thereby keeping workers safer and preventing them from having to do so many unpleasant duties.
3. The Productivity of Companies That Use These Technologies Will Go Up
When automation technology and AI get used simultaneously, there’s a strong likelihood that companies can anticipate getting more done and going through fewer periods of downtime. That’s because, unlike humans, machines do not require breaks.
When automated machinery has AI components, it could detect instances of failing parts before the machines shut down, letting operators respond proactively.
At some manufacturing plants, unplanned downtime costs companies as much as $22,000 per minute. So, those instances are both unproductive and costly. Robotics equipment that utilizes AI will keep more facilities running without interruptions.
4. Salary Increases Will Be Possible for the Highly Skilled
Although many people have weighed in and felt worried about how robots could replace the jobs humans do, it’s necessary to take a broader view and remember that robotics could also increase earnings potential for people who want to upskill and learn how to operate or repair the robots at their facilities.
One study from a researcher at Uppsala University concluded that the job market is becoming more highly skilled due to the use of robotics. Moreover, job opportunities increase for people who have those high-level skills.
It’s also becoming easier than ever for people to get educated in robotics and AI by attending universities that offer majors in those subjects. People who appreciate understanding how things work and how technology can increase output may find they’re excellent candidates for such educational opportunities.
Experts say that AI, in particular, requires a higher-level skill set than some STEM programs teach. But, if people are serious about becoming proficient in robotics and AI, that extra training could pay off through substantial future earnings.
5. There Will Be More Ways for Humans to Get Help From Robots
Cobots are robots that work safely next to humans. They have sensors that keep them from moving too fast around people, and generally, boost the capabilities of humans by helping people finish work more quickly with fewer errors. In 2019, people can expect to see more instances of companies turning to cobots to empower their workforces.
As companies continue to evaluate applications for cobots, they will continue to explore ways to increase output and quality without replacing humans. Some cobots are connected in the cloud and can be synced with each other to perform tasks across distances simultaneously.
Robotic exoskeletons also exist, which humans wear to help them handle tasks that require lifting or other kinds of movement. In 2019, a division of the U.S Army will continue testing a knee-and-hip-based exoskeleton that assists soldiers with moving around battlefields and handling loads.
These examples emphasize why 2019 will be a year when people see more examples of how robots can make things easier for humans, not replace them.
6. AI Will Make Looking for Work Less of a Hassle
Although some people feel excited by the idea of looking for new jobs, the activity can quickly become tiresome — especially as people waste their time coming across too many positions that aren’t suitable for them. Developers have recently begun offering AI technology to aid job seekers that looks for possibilities and encourages individuals to apply.
Eightfold is an AI-based platform featuring a chatbot that asks candidates about their backgrounds and then matches them with appropriate positions. Representatives from Eightfold say this process reduces the time to interview by 80 percent, as well as cuts down on hiring costs.
The time spent waiting to hear back about an application can be nerve-wracking. The AI technology in Eightfold and tools like it could result in less waiting, giving people the clarity they need to decide whether to continue searching or get ready for their interviews.
These Technologies Will Motivate Future Progress
Although it’s not possible to know all the changes that will happen in 2019 and affect the labor market, this list highlights why AI and robots will be at the forefront.
Together, they could forever reshape and enhance how people get things done.