AI is no longer the preserve of Tomorrow’s World — and over the last few years, we’ve seen intelligence systems rapidly reshape the workforce.
From providing virtual assistance and generating reports to diagnosing illness, artificial intelligence is taking over tasks that used to require human hands (and minds).
While robots haven’t commandeered all of our roles just yet, researchers predict AI may replace 300 million jobs globally by 2030, with an estimated 41% of companies expected to reduce staff numbers as a result of its introduction.
It’s a scary prospect, and you might be wondering: what does this mean for me?
But just because AI is stepping into the workplace faster than any of us could have imagined, it doesn’t need to push you out. In fact, this could be the perfect opportunity to rethink, retrain and potentially upgrade your career.
As some jobs fade, others are just getting started, and there are plenty of roles where AI cannot match human performance. So rather than losing sleep thinking about being replaced, consider the ways you can make yourself future-proof.
These are the 10 professions most likely to be displaced by AI, according to LiveCareer, along with expert guidance to help those at risk stay ahead of the curve.
1. Data entry clerks
Size of affected workforce: 95,100 data entry specialists in London
Transferring data is an almost perfect task for AI, as machine learning and OCR systems are now able to extract data from physical and online documents with high accuracy and minimal supervision.
These automated data pipelines allow companies to cut labour costs and minimise error, so although some tasks will still need a human touch, many traditional data entry roles are rapidly disappearing.
What to do instead? Consider a shift towards data analysis or management.
‘It takes judgement, context and curiosity to figure out what the numbers really mean, and what to do next — that’s not something a bot can truly replicate,’ recruitment specialist Sharon Armstrong tells Metro. ‘People working with data should focus on building skills that AI can’t easily replace, like critical thinking, storytelling with data and business insight.’
Become more advanced with tools such as Excel, SQL or Python and learn how to work alongside the development of AI; even if it’s doing the grunt work, business will require analysts to derive insights and implement intelligence-based solution.
It’s a smart move to pivot into an industry where your experience is still valued, but your opportunities are magnified.
2. Telemarketers
Size of affected workforce: 227,500 telemarketers in London
As cold calling for sales generally follows a guideline, automated and AI-driven diallers are being employed more and more frequently due to their ability to handle a magnitude calls, collect data and perform sales pitches on a daily basis.
‘AI can handle scripted sales calls, but true relationship-building still requires a human touch,’ says Sharon.
So don’t panic – there is still a market for telemarketers who specialise in high-value or complex situations that call for empathy and personality — and while it’s still a good idea to look at upskilling, focusing on these qualities can make you a valuable asset in the meantime.
What to do instead? A telemarketer’s skills in communication and persuasion transfer seamlessly into digital marketing, customer success or modern sales roles.
Customer outreach, relationship building and strategic thinking are key to being successful in these fields. Learning about digital marketing platforms, CRM systems or social media advertising and engagement will also help you get ahead.
3. Basic customer service representatives
Size of affected workforce: 58,600 customer services in London
Similarly to telemarketing, customer service work (password resets, checking order statuses, or billing questions) is often repetitive and follows a script, which unfortunately makes it ideal for automated systems
AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are more frequently being implemented for these positions as they are able to offer 24/7 support with a high level of accuracy and reduced wait times — in some cases, customers aren’t even aware they’re not talking to a real person!
What to do instead? Pivoting into more specialised customer success roles – such as customer relationship management, technical support, or client training – can help provide extra job security for staff in this field.
Sharon explains: ‘Customer service experts who develop problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence will continue to be highly sought after.’
Boosting your skills in troubleshooting, product-knowledge and industry-specific needs will aid in a transition to a new, higher-value position.
4. Retail cashiers
Size of affected workforce: 26,000 cashiers in London
Self-checkout kiosks, mobile payment apps and AI-powered surveillance systems have been replacing traditional cashiers for a while now, with stores like Amazon Go spearheading the change.
For some firms, the aim is intelligence systems managing the whole transaction, from item detection to payment processing, making the shopping experience entirely automated and staff-free. It may be a while before this becomes the norm, but it’s wise to lay the groundwork now if your job is vulnerable.
What to do instead? Roles in retail management or customer experience provide opportunity for a smooth transition as they utilise similar skills in understanding consumer behaviour and dealing with people.
You may also want to go into something more niche, in which case opportunities in logistics, supply chain management or the implementation of technology within retail environments might be worth exploring.
5. Proofreaders and copy editors
Size of affected workforce: 22,100 editors in London
Many writers and content creators use AI-based tools such as Grammarly, Hemingway and ChatGPT to speed up their editing process, as these virtual aids are now advanced enough to catch spelling mistakes, inconsistencies in tone, and even offer rephrasing and writing suggestions.
While higher-level creative editing and content direction still requires a more personalised touch, the more mechanical editing processes are being swept up by AI platforms with increasing accuracy and performance.
What to do instead? A sharp eye for detail, understanding of language and ability to write clearly and concisely are skills in high demand within fields like communications, content marketing and creative direction.
‘Content and marketing professionals who specialise in brand storytelling and campaign strategy will continue to offer value that automation can’t match,’ notes Sharon.
ResumeLab’s Peter Bryla also tells Metro: ‘If you have a sharp eye for language, that skill is still incredibly valuable; you just need to aim it higher. Think brand voice, SEO strategy, or even content planning. It’s about moving from fixing commas to shaping narratives.’
Expanding your toolkit and gaining expertise in content strategy, SEO or digital content management will enhance your CV, allowing you to become a competitive professional and move beyond polishing paragraphs.
6. Paralegals and legal assistants
Size of affected workforce: 20,200 legal admin roles
The role of a legal assistant involves detail-driven tasks like sifting through case files, reviewing contracts, flagging risky clauses, organising evidence and researching past rulings — all of which can be done (to varying degrees of success) by intelligence systems such as ROSS intelligence and DoNotPay.
What to do instead? Look at position in legal technology, such as legal operations or legal tech consulting, which allow for your current expertise to be combined with industry advances.
‘The legal field is evolving fast, and tools like AI are changing how we manage documents and casework,’ says Peter. ‘But legal professionals can stay ahead by shifting into tech-driven roles such as compliance, legal ops, or litigation support, where their expertise still matters, albeit in a more modern context.’
If you have a more solid background in law, also consider project management, litigation support or compliance positions within the tech sector. Here, your pre-existing skills in managing complex information, meeting tight deadlines and staying organised will most definitely come in handy.
7. Bookkeepers
Size of affected workforce: 153,800 bookkeepers in London
Rule-based functions such as tracking transactions, managing ledgers and preparing basic financial reports are becoming increasingly automated.
Businesses can implement modern accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero to keep the books in order, streamlining operations and reducing human error.
What to do instead? Your skills in interpreting complex financial data and providing strategic insights can prove valuable in similar roles like financial consulting or analysis and auditing.
Sharon explains: ‘Financial professionals who can interpret data, advise on strategy, and assess risk provide insights that no software can replace.’
Boost your expertise in financial modelling, budgeting and data analysis to move into a position with more strategic influence (and potentially higher earning potential) and stay on top in this fast-moving industry.
8. Fast food and restaurant workers
Size of affected workforce: 42,000 frontline food workers in London
Many fast food giants are already using automated devices to take orders. But the development of tech in prepping meals and cleaning brings AI’s involvement within the food industry to a new level, with McDonald’s and White Castle already testing robotic fry cooks and AI-powered drive-through assistants.
While machines may be gaining the upper hand in routine based tasks though, the food industry will always need creativity and decision-making that requires the fine tuned touch of human experience.
What to do instead? More innovative or managerial roles within the food world such as culinary innovation, restaurant management, supply chain management are all great jumps from working front of house.
‘In hospitality, automation may assist, but leadership, creativity, and customer experience remain firmly human strengths,’ Sharon comments. ‘Upskilling in management and operations will help workers stay ahead.’
Food service tech roles that focus on developing or managing AI systems for restaurants also offer a great way to work alongside developing intelligence systems instead of competing with them.
9. Warehouse workers
Size of affected workforce: 20,600 warehouse roles in London
Many mainstream companies such as Amazon, Ocado and Alibaba have already developed automated warehouse systems where AI robots handle the product selection, packing, labelling and inventory tracking processes normally done by warehouse workers.
Instead of doing physical labour, some workers have shifted to supervisory roles, but there are other options that might be more beneficial in allowing you to get the most out of your employment experience.
What to do instead? Build expertise in logistics coordination, inventory control and warehouse technology operations to level up here.
‘Automation is growing in logistics, but skilled professionals who manage inventory systems and oversee technology-driven processes are still crucial to keeping supply chains running smoothly,’ Sharon adds.
Look at gaining education and experience in automation systems, logistics software, efficiency management and safety standards, as this will get you to the front of the queue when interviewing for roles like warehouse supervisor, supply chain analyst and robotics technician.
10. Entry level market research analysts
Size of affected workforce: 63,100 junior analysts in London
Automated AI tools such as Tableau and Google’s Looker Studio are able to do data collection, run statistical analyses and highlight patterns, effectively taking over the duties of junior market research staff.
What to do instead? To remain at the top of the game, shift toward positions that use more strategic thinking skills, from strategy consultant to business analyst or data scientist.
Sharon says: ‘While data collection is increasingly automated, those who develop strong data storytelling and business insight skills will remain valuable in marketing and analytics roles.’
It’s worth being confident in turning raw data into insights, so build skills in data visualisation and storytelling, and make yourself familiar with platforms like Python to really stand out from the crowd.
Are any jobs safe from an AI takeover?
The simple answer is that jobs requiring direct human interaction or creativity are safe from being overshadowed by machines — at least for now.
However, AI is making significant and speedy progress in automating more routine tasks.
Careers coach Jasmine Escalera says that to ‘stay ahead of AI and other intelligent systems, the key is continuous learning and adaptability.’
‘Focus on skills that AI can’t easily replicate, like critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence and complex problem solving,’ she tells Metro. ‘Those who invest in reskilling and lifelong learning will be best positioned to succeed in this evolving landscape.’
The main takeaway here is that AI can be used to assist in many ways, but doesn’t yet have the capacity for jobs that aren’t repetitive or heavily data-driven. So instead of worrying about them taking over the world, lean on intelligence systems to take over time consuming – and often boring – tasks, giving you time to focus on higher-level or creative work that’ll make you indispensible.
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