With the popularity of ChatGPT and other tools, Generative Artificial Intelligence is all the rage right now. And because these tools have been so impressive, many people are wondering if AI is coming for their jobs.
While the concern makes sense, the most likely scenario is that AI will actually do two beneficial things for white collar management jobs:
1) AI will likely make management tasks more efficient
2) AI will likely create a large number of management jobs related to the use of AI in management
According to Erik J. Larson author of the influential Harvard University Press book The Myth of Artificial Intelligence (as well as a forthcoming book on the same subject), generative AI should be thought of primarily as a tool rather than a job replacer:
“As with the printing press and the computer, generative AI is a technological tool that will change the way people work. Some jobs will be replaced, but many others will be created for managing AI tools and AI-driven projects. In fact, AI may enable many more people to become solo entrepreneurs, which is the ultimate job in management.”
How AI Will Make Management Tasks More Efficient
Here’s a simple example. Let’s say you are managing a marketing campaign and you’re waiting on a design creative to run on Facebook. In yesterday’s world you might have to wait several days for your graphic designer.
But with a good prompt, you may be able to have a generative AI design you a great image in mere minutes. Yeah, this puts graphic designers jobs at risk. But in this article we’re talking about management jobs! And a good graphic designer will learn how to use AI to offer even more irreplaceable value.
As good as AI may beat some tasks, it’s arguable that AI will always need human input and guidance.
And that means AI related jobs.
Here are some ways that AI might make management tasks more efficient:
Quickly find relevant information: One of the reasons AI has burst onto the scenes is due to its ability to quickly filter and find the most relevant responses to questions. Unlike search engine results, AI queries provide a definitive answer that does not require reading through dozens of articles to reach a consensus. AI also has the ability to summarize large bodies of literature and research in easy to understand and actionable ways.
Data analysis and insights: AI can quickly analyze vast amounts of data, extract relevant information, and generate actionable insights. This saves managers significant time and effort in manually processing and interpreting data. By providing valuable insights, AI enables managers to make more informed and data-driven decisions.
Automation of repetitive tasks: Many management tasks involve repetitive and time-consuming activities. AI can automate these tasks, such as data entry, report generation, and administrative work. By reducing manual effort, managers can focus on more strategic and high-value activities, improving overall efficiency.
Workflow optimization: AI-powered tools can optimize workflows by automating and streamlining processes. This includes tasks such as project management, scheduling, and task allocation. By leveraging AI, managers can improve resource allocation, monitor progress, and ensure efficient execution of projects and tasks.
Intelligent assistance: AI can act as a virtual assistant, providing real-time and personalized assistance to managers. It can help with tasks such as organizing schedules, prioritizing work, and providing relevant information. This assistance allows managers to stay organized, make better use of their time, and complete tasks more efficiently.
Predictive analytics and forecasting: AI algorithms can analyze historical data and patterns to make predictions and forecasts. This capability helps managers anticipate future trends, identify potential issues, and make proactive decisions. By leveraging AI-driven predictions, managers can plan resources, mitigate risks, and optimize operations more effectively.
Collaboration and communication: AI-powered collaboration tools can enhance communication and information sharing among teams and stakeholders. These tools facilitate real-time collaboration, document sharing, and knowledge management. By improving communication and collaboration, managers can streamline decision-making processes, reduce delays, and foster greater efficiency in teamwork.
Continuous learning and improvement: AI can support managers in continuous learning and professional development. It can provide personalized recommendations for training programs, industry insights, and best practices. By leveraging AI-driven learning platforms, managers can stay updated, acquire new skills, and improve their managerial capabilities.
Will AI Actually Create New Management Jobs?
While AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and roles, it also creates opportunities for new management jobs. Here are several new management jobs that either already exist or are likely to emerge in the near future:
AI Strategy Manager: This role involves developing and implementing strategies for integrating AI technologies into an organization’s operations. The AI Strategy Manager assesses the potential impact of AI, identifies areas where AI can create value, and guides the organization in adopting and leveraging AI effectively.
AI Project Manager: With the increasing implementation of AI projects, there is a need for professionals who can oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of AI initiatives. The AI Project Manager ensures that AI projects align with organizational goals, manages resources and timelines, and ensures successful deployment of AI solutions.
AI Data Manager: Managing data is crucial for AI-driven organizations. The AI Data Manager oversees data collection, storage, quality assurance, and privacy. They ensure that the organization’s data infrastructure is robust, secure, and optimized to support AI initiatives.
AI Talent Manager: As AI becomes integral to business operations, organizations need professionals who can attract, retain, and develop AI talent. The AI Talent Manager identifies skill gaps, designs AI training programs, and collaborates with HR departments to recruit and manage AI specialists.
AI Risk Manager: AI systems come with their own set of risks, including bias, security vulnerabilities, and regulatory compliance. The AI Risk Manager assesses potential risks associated with AI technologies, develops risk mitigation strategies, and ensures that AI deployments adhere to relevant laws and regulations.
AI Security Manager: With the growing reliance on AI systems, ensuring the security of AI infrastructure and protecting against potential threats becomes crucial. The AI Security Manager designs and implements security protocols, conducts risk assessments, and ensures the integrity and confidentiality of AI-related data.
Just like how many jobs use computers as a tool to make the job more efficient and productive, it is likely that AI will become commonplace in all data and text driven jobs. As AI continues to advance and organizations embrace its potential, there will be a growing demand for professionals who can lead and manage AI-driven initiatives effectively.
Will some jobs be lost to AI? Yes. But this happens with all major technological change.
To stay ahead of the curve, Tammie Cagle the editor of MBAStack.org suggests management of the future will require using classical management principles within an environment of pervasive AI. She says that it will become increasingly important for all management workers to upgrade their talent stack to include the use of AI tools like ChatGPT, InkForAll and MidJourney.
Cagle points out that anyone can use the Internet to develop a talent stack that includes AI skills. She says that the best place to get started is with AI prompt engineering which you can learn by experimenting with ChatGPT and other popular AI tools. She also recommends watching videos and taking courses (there are plenty of free ones) on management and AI.
The post How Will AI Affect White Collar Management Jobs? appeared first on The Village Voice.
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