Are your job prospects at risk? The 15 professions most affected by AI

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the job market, several professions are on the decline. 

According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025 published by the World Economic Forum (WEF), it is projected that by 2030, 170 million new job roles will be created, while 92 million existing positions will be displaced, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs.

The report says that technological advancements, demographic shifts, geoeconomic tensions, and economic pressures are the key drivers of these changes which are reshaping industries and professions globally. 

Robots and automation are forecast to displace five million more jobs than they create. 

The WEF says that businesses expect these trends to cause a sharp fall in roles, including various clerical roles, such as cashiers and ticket clerks, as well as administrative assistants, printing workers, accountants, and auditors.

Here is the full list of the fastest declining jobs: postal service clerks; bank tellers; data entry workers; cashiers; administration clerks; printing and related trade workers; accounting, bookkeeping and payroll clerks; material-recording and stock-keeping workers; door-to-door sales workers; transportation attendants; graphic designers; claims adjusters; legal officials; legal secretaries and telemarketers.

Upskilling

Michelle Dobson, head of Brands, Pnet says upskilling is linked to lifelong learning and is crucial for personal and professional growth. 

With industries evolving and technology advancing rapidly, the demand for skilled professionals is constantly shifting, making upskilling vital.

The ability to not only learn, but also to adapt, is crucial. Jobseekers who understand this and can demonstrate they are continuously developing and growing their skills are more likely to stand out to employers.

“This makes them more employable, opens new career opportunities, and ensures that the jobseeker can remain relevant in a changing world. Candidates that take the initiative to upskill, learn and adapt can differentiate themselves, making upskilling a key component in securing career growth and long-term success,” Dobson says.

Tips to help jobseekers upskill themselves

• Know the skills that are in demand: researching industry trends and job listings can help jobseekers understand which skills employers are currently looking for and identify gaps in their own skill set. 

• Upskill via online and short courses: platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer affordable and accessible courses.

• Get practical experience: jobseekers can get hands-on experience through volunteering, internships or freelancing. 

• Enhance their soft skills: while technical skills remain critical, soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability are equally important and can give a jobseeker the edge in a competitive market. – IOL Business