The conversation around AI and job displacement is often filled with alarmist predictions, like McKinsey’s forecast that nearly 12 million workers might need to find new jobs by 2030 due to AI. However, IBM’s CHRO, Nickle LaMoreaux, offers a more nuanced view. Speaking at a SXSW panel, LaMoreaux suggested that the real issue isn’t job loss but rather the transformation of job roles and the necessity for workforce adaptation to AI.
LaMoreaux highlighted a global skills shortage, exacerbated by declining birth rates in many countries, suggesting that AI could bridge the gap between the available workforce and job demands. She argues that AI’s role isn’t about eliminating jobs but enhancing them, allowing workers to engage in more valuable tasks rather than routine ones.
Regarding entry-level positions, LaMoreaux posited that AI will enable new workers to contribute more significantly and rapidly, reducing the need for frequent job changes. This shift could lead to more satisfying and impactful early-career experiences.
At IBM, AI is integrated into various HR functions, such as providing information through chatbots or automating routine tasks in talent acquisition. This approach not only streamlines operations but also allows human resources to focus on more strategic areas. Despite this, IBM remains cautious, especially around talent acquisition, to avoid potential biases that AI might introduce.
LaMoreaux stressed the importance of transparency and explainability in AI usage within IBM, ensuring that AI tools are understood and do not replace human decision-making. This principle reflects a broader need for companies to establish clear guidelines on AI use that align with their specific legal and cultural frameworks.
