The specter of artificial intelligence (AI) looms large over the future of work, sparking anxieties about job displacement and plummeting wages. But amidst the doom and gloom, a surprising perspective emerges from Sander van’t Noordende, CEO of Randstad, a global human resources heavyweight. He posits that AI, rather than being a salary scourge, could actually lead to increased paychecks for certain workers.
This seemingly paradoxical claim stems from van’t Noordende’s vision of AI as a tool for augmenting human capabilities, not replacing them. He argues that AI can free employees from mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on higher-value activities that require uniquely human skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. These higher-order skills, he contends, will become increasingly valuable in the AI-driven economy, commanding a premium in the form of higher wages.
This optimistic outlook finds some grounding in reality. A 2023 Goldman Sachs report estimated that while AI could impact 300 million jobs, it could also create millions of new ones in fields like AI development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. Additionally, a Pew Research Center study revealed that only a fraction of US jobs currently have high exposure to AI, suggesting a gradual and uneven impact on the workforce.
However, many experts have also pointed out that AI could create new jobs instead of just erasing them, similar to other technological advancements in the past.
Van’t Noordende explained that it may take more time before the full influence of AI is felt by workers. Just one in eight companies is currently using the technology “at scale,” while other employers are still experimenting. “For AI to really get absorbed at scale, get implemented at scale will take a while,” he said1.
However, van’t Noordende readily acknowledges the challenges associated with AI integration. He emphasizes the need for responsible implementation, ensuring that AI complements, rather than supplants, human talent. This necessitates not only technological advancements but also robust training programs to equip workers with the skills needed to thrive in the AI era.
The Randstad CEO’s perspective offers a much-needed counterpoint to the AI-driven dystopian narratives dominating headlines. While acknowledging the potential for job disruptions, he paints a picture where AI empowers workers, enhances productivity, and ultimately rewards valuable human skills. This, however, hinges on a proactive approach from businesses and policymakers, ensuring that the AI revolution uplifts, rather than undermines, the human workforce.
