Generative AI Threatens White-Collar Jobs More Than Blue-Collar Roles

A report released on Monday by global learning company Pearson warns that generative AI poses a significant threat to white-collar jobs in India, particularly in the areas of accounting and book-keeping. The report, titled "Gen AI Proof Jobs," analyzed the impact of generative AI on more than 5,000 jobs in five countries, including India, Australia, Brazil, the US, and the UK.

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Tasks That Can Be Replaced by Generative AI

According to the report, many administrative roles involve repetitive tasks such as scheduling appointments or answering and directing calls, which can easily be replicated by generative AI. In India, around 30 percent or more time spent on some white-collar tasks every week can be performed by generative AI. This means that jobs such as accounting and book-keeping clerks, word processor and related operators, administrative secretaries and related associate professionals, stall and market salespersons, and accountants are at high risk of being replaced by AI.

Low Impact on Blue-Collar Jobs

In contrast, the report found that generative AI can do less than 1 percent of a blue-collar worker's job in a week. This means that blue-collar jobs such as weavers, knitters, and related roles, basketry weavers, brush makers, and related work, weaving and knitting machine operators, waiters and bartenders, and bakers, pastry, and confectionery makers are at low risk of being replaced by AI.

Preparing for the Future

As employees look to the future, understanding which jobs are at risk from AI allows them to prepare. They should also consider where new roles might be created by generative AI. Workers and employers should look at how they can ride this wave of change by using the best of AI and the best of human skills together.

The rise of generative AI is likely to have a significant impact on the job market in India, particularly for white-collar workers. However, by understanding the risks and preparing for the future, individuals and businesses can adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.