More than half (55%) of American workers are at least a little scared that they will lose their job to artificial intelligence (AI), according to a survey conducted as part of Finder’s quarterly Consumer Confidence Index.
But the degree to which people fear AI taking over jobs varies. At one end of the scale of fear, some are either extremely (13%) or very concerned (11%) about what AI in the workplace means for their future job security, compared to those who might be more apprehensive about the role that AI will play in the future rather than outright terrified: somewhat (18%) and slightly concerned (14%). Finally, there is a solid amount who are not concerned at all at 45%.
Only 35% say they are not worried about AI’s impact on their jobs compared to 51% of women.
Gen Z (67%) and gen Y (61%) are by far the most concerned about artificial intelligence taking over and impacting their job prospects, compared to 45% of gen X and just 27% of baby boomers.
Those living in the West are most fearful about AI and the future of work at 67%, compared to just 52% in the Midwest.
Those who are employed full-time are the most likely to report extreme concern (14%) about the rise of AI, compared to just 7% of those working part-time.
Those already worried about being laid off in the next 12 months are also concerned about artificial intelligence taking over jobs, with 77% expressing concern.
The top three industries concerned about AI’s impact on jobs are agriculture (86%), marketing and communications (73%) and arts, entertainment and recreation (65%). Whereas just 40% of those working in legal services expressed any concern.
What makes these figures all the more worrying is that a combined 17% said they would only be able to live off their savings for a week or less if they lost their job tomorrow, with 11% saying they’d last under a week. And just where 22% said that they were investing their money in high-interest savings accounts.
Richard Laycock, Insights editor and senior content marketing manager
From knowing how much you have in savings to understanding the tax implications that come with investing.
You have so many banking options, so make sure yours offers the strongest perks.
