Over the last few years, there have been near continuous innovations in the technology available to use in our everyday lives. While this has created better levels of productivity and better provision of services for many, it also means some job roles will become obsolete in the upcoming decades.
Cashier
According to Forbes, “Cashier-less technology is starting to roll out to tech-enabled retailers and may eventually impact the whole grocery industry.” There has also been a rise in online shopping, which will reduce the need for physical stores, and self-checkout technology is often used where stores are profitable for the business.
Travel Agent
Online booking platforms have led to a decline in the demand for traditional travel agency services, as digital services often offer more convenience and better visibility for customers. There has also been a growth in the use of AI and virtual reality for planning travel itineraries.
Bank Teller
Online banking and instant messaging on the banks’ mobile apps have reduced the need to speak with someone from the bank in person. On top of this, ATMs and other automated banking machines have become more advanced, allowing for self-service banking, and a shift toward a more cashless society has seen the role decrease.
Print Journalist
Digital and online content across publications’ websites and apps, as well as social media, has seen a decline in the need for print journalists. Many newspapers and magazines have opted to reduce print circulation or move to a digital-only publication. There is also an increasing reliance on AI for news reporting and content creation.
Typist or Data Entry Clerk
According to Tech.co, “data entry roles involve lots of tasks that follow pre-defined sets of rules. This means it’s a comparatively easy role to automate, due to the repetitiveness and logic-following nature.” As a result, AI has become a widely used tool for data input, and other routine data processes have been automated.
Postal Worker
Traditional mail has seen a decline due to an increase in email, social media, and other digital communication methods. There has also been a move to innovate in postal sorting centers, with many processes being automated. Finally, a rise in drone and autonomous vehicle delivery systems may mean delivery drivers face becoming obsolete.
Telemarketer
According to The Guardian, telemarketing has a 99% probability of becoming automated, with an increasing number of companies already using robocalls. This has been driven by advancements in AI, which have allowed companies to use automated calling and customer service.
Taxi Driver
Innovations such as autonomous vehicles and ride-sharing services threaten the future of taxi drivers as human drivers become less necessary for people wanting to make their way across town. Future urban planning and smart city concepts also focus on reducing traffic congestion, lowering emissions, and improving public transportation, which could see the end of individual taxi journeys.
Librarian
Digital libraries and online teaching resources have reduced the need for physical books and library spaces. This has meant the role of a librarian has changed from a caretaker of the library’s books to more of an information specialist to help customers.
Travel Guide
In recent years, there has been a decrease in demand for human-led travel tours, with many travelers opting for digital alternatives. Virtual and augmented reality technologies are being used to create immersive and informative travel experiences for visitors without the need for a human guide.
Coal Miner
According to Brookings, “Over the last decade, the United States has seen a 40 percent decline in coal-fired generation.” They go on to say, “A recovery in domestic coal demand is not likely.” This reduction has been driven by a transition to renewable energy sources and environmental policies.
Meter Reader
Smart meters have been largely rolled out in homes across the country, which has reduced, or in some cases, eliminated, the need for manual reading of meters. Customers are also often opting to integrate smart devices, such as smart thermostats, to better manage their utility consumption.
Inventory Stocker
Automated and robotic technologies have revolutionized inventory management for large companies, which are now able to use drones and automated systems for restocking and inventory checks. There is also an increase in the use of AI for predicting sales analytics in order to optimize inventory.
Receptionist
A shift toward remote working locations has reduced the need for on-site reception services in a lot of companies, especially when it comes to manning a front desk. There has also been a recent increase in the use of AI-powered virtual assistants that are able to handle scheduling and customer inquiries.
Parking Lot Attendant
Over the last decades, there has been a growth in automated parking solutions and smart parking technology, reducing the need for human parking attendants. The future is also expected to see a rise in autonomous vehicles that can park themselves, as well as an increased urban planning focus on reducing personal vehicle use.
Assembly Line Worker
According to the BBC, “up to 20 million manufacturing jobs around the world could be replaced by robots by 2030.” This comes as a result of continuous advancements over the last decades in robotics and automation. AI is also playing an increasing role in monitoring and optimizing production processes.
Door-to-Door Salesperson
While door-to-door sales were once the best way to get in front of your customers, digital marketing and e-commerce technologies are now dominating sales strategies for companies. This change reflects consumer preference for shopping online and is more cost-effective for organizations.
Newspaper Delivery Person
A decline in print media consumption may spell the end for home newspaper deliveries as more and more consumers make the shift toward digital news platforms and digital publications. Digital media is becoming the preferred option for many as it offers customized news feeds and real-time updates.
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