There’s been a lot of chatter lately about AI taking over jobs and how it’s going to disrupt industries. And while there’s some truth to that, the idea that AI will simply replace human workers is a bit off the mark. The reality is that AI is not going to replace you; however, someone who learns how to leverage AI effectively will.
The Real Threat, Falling Behind, Not AI Itself
Here’s the thing: there’s a surprising amount of general unawareness about what AI can actually do and how it's starting to impact nearly every industry. AI tools are becoming more sophisticated and accessible by the day, they're already automating routine tasks, analysing data in ways we never could, and providing insights that can give you a competitive edge.
If you’re not keeping up with these trends, you risk quickly becoming irrelevant in your role. Think about it: your colleague down the hall who knows how to use AI tools to speed up their work and enhance their productivity is going to outshine those who don’t. That’s the real challenge here, not that AI is some robot overlord coming for your job, but that others will outpace you by adopting and adapting to these new tools.
Transforming Law and Software Engineering
Now, I work in the Software Engineering and Technology sector, and my wife works in law, so I’ve had a front-row seat to how both industries are evolving. Legal work has traditionally been filled with time-consuming tasks, data entry, document review, contract analysis, legal research and the dreaded time sheets. These are the very areas where AI is already proving to be a game-changer.
Many in the legal field might shrug off AI, thinking it could never replace the expertise required to navigate complex legal matters. But don't be that person. The truth is, someone with your exact knowledge and skills who can wield AI will very easily outpace you, and not just by a little; they'll be ten times more efficient. It doesn't mean your value goes away, but it may mean your role shifts further down the value chain. More of your work may become reviewing, checking, and directing, as opposed to drafting and research. AI isn’t a threat to your role; it’s an opportunity to multiply your productivity and improve the quality of your work.
The Low Adoption Paradox in Software Development
Software Engineers are traditionally a group quick to adopt new technologies, but surprisingly, I’m seeing lower adoption rates for AI tools than expected. Tools like Cursor and GitHub Copilot are already revolutionising the way software engineers work, offering potentially a 10x boost in productivity. These tools automate much of the busywork involved in development, allowing engineers to focus on the bigger picture and the end result. Despite this, the adoption rate seems disappointingly low. In my company, which has around 50 developers, I’ve observed only 10-15% actually using these tools, this is crazy!
Whether this low uptake is due to fear of being replaced or a lack of understanding that these tools enhance their value by enabling them to deliver better outcomes for the business, it’s a concerning trend. AI tools are not a threat; they are assets that can significantly elevate one’s impact. The engineers who embrace AI are the ones who will thrive, while those who ignore it risk falling behind.
Just as in the legal industry, the key is recognising that these tools aren’t here to replace roles but to enhance them, driving productivity and focusing on the most valuable aspects of the work.
Historical Parallels, Technology as a Catalyst for Change
This isn't the first time we've faced a technological shift that changes the way we work. Take the Industrial Revolution, for instance. When machinery started to automate tasks previously done by hand, many feared mass unemployment. The Luddites even took to destroying machines in protest. But in reality, while some jobs did become obsolete, new ones were created. Workers transitioned from manual labor to operating machines, leading to increased productivity and economic growth.
Similarly, the introduction of computers into the workforce sparked concerns about job losses. In the 1980s and 1990s, there was widespread anxiety that computers would replace human workers. Instead, computers became essential tools that enhanced human capabilities. Entirely new industries and job roles emerged, from software development to IT support. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer-related occupations grew significantly over the past few decades, demonstrating how embracing new technology can lead to greater opportunities.
These historical shifts show that technology doesn't eliminate the need for human workers; it changes how value is created. Those who adapted and learned to work alongside new technologies not only kept their jobs but often found themselves in more skilled and better-paying positions. The key was adaptability and a willingness to learn.
Now Is the Time to Upskill
If there’s one takeaway you should get from this, it’s that now is the time to start learning about AI and how it applies to your industry. This isn’t about jumping on a trend for the sake of it; it's about ensuring you remain relevant and competitive in your field. The people who are upskilling with AI today will be the leaders in their industries tomorrow.
How to Get Started
So, where should you begin? Here are some steps to get you started:
Explore Industry-Specific AI Tools: Research AI tools already being adopted in your industry. For example, legal professionals can explore ROSS Intelligence to learn more about the popular tools and trends, while software developers can try GitHub Copilot or my preference Cursor IDE.
- Experiment: Set aside time to experiment with these tools. The more you use them, the more you'll understand their capabilities.
- Learn the Fundamentals: You don’t need to become a data scientist, but understanding how AI works will help you appreciate its potential and limitations. Consider taking an online course or attending a workshop.
- Integrate AI into Your Workflow: Start small. Use AI to automate routine tasks or assist in data analysis. Gradually, you’ll see how it can enhance your productivity.
Make AI Your Productivity Partner
Incorporating AI into your work isn’t a sign of being replaced; it’s a strategic move that elevates your role. AI can handle the heavy lifting—data processing, pattern recognition, document review, so you can focus on higher-level problem-solving and creativity. By embracing AI, you’re gaining a new partner that helps you work smarter, not harder.
Your Competitive Edge: Embrace AI Now
Don’t wait for the future to catch up to you. The gap between those who adopt AI and those who don’t is widening every day. Start now: explore an AI tool, take a short course, or integrate AI into a small part of your workflow. The leaders of tomorrow will be those who take action today.
Remember:
"In the age of AI, it's not man versus machine, but man with machine versus man without."
Source: Inspired by the writings of Paul R. Daugherty and H. James Wilson in "Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI" (2018).
