Artificial Intelligence is already introducing a form of selection — even segregation — that will profoundly shake up certain certainties in the world of work. Let’s be clear: the ‘bare minimum’ in terms of individual performance will soon no longer be enough for many workers.
Companies are now looking for committed, proactive employees who can go beyond simply doing their job. This seems obvious, my dear Watson, but let’s remember: a person who is highly invested in their work is much more fulfilled than someone who is content to do the minimum, without any real attachment to their professional environment.
This is not about blaming anyone, nor is it about claiming that all jobs are exciting or rewarding. But we must recognise that a day’s work can seem endless when you don’t enjoy what you do. Finding sources of satisfaction — however modest — and cultivating a sense of commitment or curiosity becomes essential.
For those who remain passive, AI is likely to provide a scathing response in the years to come.
The growing—and often intrusive—use of Artificial Intelligence is already profoundly transforming professions, replacing some with technologies or humanoid robots. While certain professions in the secondary sector will be preserved for some time to come, many functions in the tertiary sector are already being taken over by AI.
So, what should you do when your job is at risk of being replaced? Certainly not take refuge in the bare minimum.
Faced with this transformation that no one has really chosen, passivity is not an option. We must continue to learn, explore other professions, train ourselves technically, and stay informed — even on topics that are sometimes unappealing. All of this must now be part of our personal toolbox.
When managers have to make choices, it is highly likely that proactive, curious and open-minded individuals will be treated more favourably than those who adopt a wait-and-see approach. There are no guarantees, of course, but in this new context, effort and the learning process will count as much — if not more — than the results themselves.
The changes brought about by AI are happening quietly: they are not causing a sudden revolution but are gradually reshaping the professional landscape. As consumers, we are reaping the full benefits of these technologies. But once the euphoria of discovery and the ‘fun’ aspect have passed, there will inevitably be a backlash if we do not prepare ourselves — individually and collectively — for these upheavals.
Businesses and authorities will have to support these large-scale changes, but each of us also bears a share of the responsibility. The bare minimum will no longer suffice, whether we like it or not.
Proactivity, curiosity and a willingness to learn will be the watchwords of the future — and, ironically, these may be the very qualities that AI will reinforce.
Enjoy reading and see you soon.