With the latest push from AI, we are seeing people ask again, “Will AI replace me?” As evolved as AI is, there are very human traits that we have yet to see it have the ability to replace. There are many reasons why AI won’t be able to take over humans in the workplace entirely.

In today’s labor market, employers require results faster and more efficiently without losing quality. In other words, do more with less time. Automated processes can help with this. However, some people worry that they will lose their jobs to robots due to this additional support. 

Rest assured. Humans still have many irreplaceable traits. AI just isn’t equipped to fully replace us yet. However, it is growing increasingly to be the perfect companion to your daily tasks and already heavy workload. 

What will AI replace? 

Of course, there are things that AI is being programmed to replace almost entirely. And a few things need some work, but they will eventually be excellent for AI tools to tackle almost independently. They will always require human oversight, but several tasks can be completely crossed off your to-do list. Here are some of the tasks that AI will replace:

Speed and accuracy in data entry

Menial and repetitive tasks will be the easiest for AI to take over. It will also free up a lot of time and mental space for your team. Setting up employees for payroll will be done automatically and without error. Other data entry tasks, like password creation and authentication, can also be done with little human interaction. 

Direct translation

We already use translation tools like Deepl, Google Translate, etc. AI can check your translations for errors and do the entire job. Some translations may still require a native speaker to check them, but AI can do most of the work. 

Supply chain tracking

There's no need to manually ensure that your shipments arrive on time anymore. Automation will guarantee your suppliers get your product to the consumer, and you’ll be notified every step of the way. 

Training

Humans can still record training sessions, but it’s hard to replicate that human connection. However, when it comes to distribution and providing training reports, booklets, and extra support, it can all be done with the right processes

Resume Scanning

The first step of reviewing CVs and resumes is to see if keywords match your job description. You can program AI to go through the hundreds of applications for you, so you can focus on meeting the right candidate. 

Anything repetitive that can be turned into a templated process

Those with a higher chance of losing jobs to AI shouldn’t panic just yet. Automation is making strides not because of job replacements but because of task replacements. The sooner you accept that AI is here to stay, the quicker you will adapt to it being an incredibly useful tool. Especially when it is used correctly. 

What will AI NEVER replace?

We asked AI directly. 

ChatGPT says, “Overall, it's likely that AI will change the nature of work in many industries rather than replace human workers completely." "As AI becomes more advanced, it's likely that humans will be freed up from performing repetitive and manual tasks and instead focus on higher-level, creative, and strategic work.”

There will always be irreplaceable traits. It’s important to stay ahead of the robots in today’s digital world, so it’s best to make sure you possess a few of these skills. 

Emotional Intelligence

It’s more important than ever to have high levels of emotional intelligence (EQ). EQ allows you to assess the situation, think outside the box, and figure out the best way to react (or not), much better than a robot would.

Look at the role of a teacher. Some argue that bad teachers will be easily replaceable. A great teacher is uncommon, though; automation will never replace them. A great teacher requires a high level of emotional intelligence. Being able to adapt your teaching style on the fly to different needs is not something AI can replace. 

Creativity

Honing your creativity skills will enable you to come up with extraordinary solutions. AI can generate specific ideas but can’t go through a creative process or think beyond its existing knowledge. It’s ultimately up to us how this technology is used. You can pair up with automation and ensure your time is well spent. 

Leadership

Being an effective leader requires all of the above skills. Having effective leadership is more important than ever. A good leader can create a sense of purpose, motivate others, and lead them to success. 

The bottom line is that robots lack the human touch. They can’t encourage or inspire employees. Not like a great leader can. 

Critical thinking

This is one of the most talked-about human vs. robot traits. Despite using AI as writing assistants and for research, they have limitations. They can’t make decisions when it comes to the bigger picture. Human input is invaluable; they can take a step back to see the entire strategy. 

Interpersonal development and communication

This characteristic is critical in building relationships. Robots aren’t designed to be able to interpret subtleties (at least not yet). They can communicate but cannot understand and respond fully to social cues. For example, having a robot as a therapist or working in HR would be quite a disaster. They aren’t designed to understand emotions and feelings.

This brings us to the biggest thing they will never replace…

Empathy

Empathy is one of our most human and vital tools. It helps us understand feelings and different perspectives. It’s how we put ourselves in others’ shoes and make sure we can think of solutions that help others, not just ourselves. 

AI has a lot of great applications, but some things just shouldn’t be compromised. Empathy is intangible to AI, and it will never be replaced. Humans will always have a role. It’s up to us to determine the best fit for us. 

Don’t fight it. Join it

Artificial interruptions are already happening. AI can analyze sales calls, check references, and send updates automatically. What we see here at Wrk is that bots will make you better at your job. The better results will secure your job, not the other way around. 

Understanding what efforts are being put toward digital transformation will help you stay ahead of all the progress. Updating your skillset and ensuring you’re knowledgeable about automation and AI will make you more valuable. 

Want to get ahead? Schedule a call with one of our automation experts today