Technological advances can improve workplaces in nearly any industry, but they also leave many people concerned that their job will soon become a victim of the rise of the machines. While it is true that advances like artificial intelligence (AI) can impact how many jobs are done, that doesn’t mean you are at risk of being replaced by a robot. If that is your worry, here’s what you need to know.

Based on the current state of technology, there are still a lot of things that machines can’t do for themselves. In most cases, creative professions (ranging from artists to engineers to strategists) can’t be completely taken over by tech, largely because these roles require original and unique thoughts, which machines can’t yet replicate.

Similarly, positions that require human contact beyond the basic level are also fairly safe, especially if the interactions are predominately managed in person. While AIs and chatbots are handling some human-like conversations at lower levels, their capacity is still highly limited. And, some people will always prefer communicating with an actual person over a machine, regardless of their capabilities.

Jobs that are incredibly unpredictable in nature, such as those oriented on physical repairs or broken systems at a variety of locations (like work performed by electricians or plumbers), would also be incredibly difficult to automate.

Positions that are most likely to be impacted by technology like AI tend to be highly repetitive and formulaic in nature. For example, tax accountants have already been affected by tech as the ability to file one’s taxes using simple software allows more people to manage the task on their own than ever before.

Certain manufacturing and logistics jobs may also be at risk, and customer-oriented roles that don’t require a high-level of social intelligence, like cashiers or telemarketers, could also see their jobs change significantly.

Even in your work in a field that is likely to be impacted, that doesn’t mean you’ll be replaced by a robot. There are things you can do to mitigate the risk, including staying on top of trends so that you can identify which of your duties may be automated and building your skill set based on tasks that aren’t easily given to machines.

By working to improve your level of competency areas that still require a person to perform the duties, you can increase the likelihood that you’ll be seen as valuable by employers regardless of whether automation enters your workplace.

While it can be scary to think that technology could make some of your skills obsolete, by staying ahead of the curve you can increase your odds of keeping a job no matter what the future holds.

If you are looking for a new opportunity, the team at TempStaff can connect you with leading employers throughout the area. Contact us to speak with one of your skilled recruiters today and see how our services can help you take your career in the right direction — and clear of any robot interference.