How different will our jobs be in 2022?
The year 2022 has just arrived, and it brings great changes with it. It’s time to look into the future, at the world of work, and ask ourselves how different it will be from today. Will we still be working in offices? How about computers? Robots? Will we even need to go to work in the morning? The answer lies in how tech will evolve over the next four years… let’s take a look!
4 predictions on the future of technology
In 2022, we’ll continue to develop and rely on technology, but we’ll also see an increased divide between those who can afford it and those who cannot. Tech-related careers with little potential for artificial intelligence or automation—like doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses—will still have a place in society. On the other hand, there are a number of occupations that simply won’t survive into 2026: cashiers; typists; travel agents; office clerks; bank tellers; air traffic controllers…the list goes on. The fewer skills you possess today (typing speed, for example), the less likely you are to survive through tomorrow.
Internet Privacy Changes
In August 2017, under President Trump’s executive order, a repeal of an FCC rule regarding Protecting The Privacy Of Customers Of Broadband And Other Telecommunications Services was passed. The rule limited how ISPs (Internet Service Providers) were allowed to use and sell customer data without customer permission. This was previously made possible under Section 222 of 1996’s Telecommunications Act. With some exceptions for business customers, ISPs are now permitted to track customer activities online and sell that information to third parties including advertisers or businesses who offer products or services relevant to those interests and Internet activities. In order to increase transparency they must disclose what they’re doing; however, there are no restrictions on how providers collect or use data.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Replacing Jobs
When artificial intelligence (AI) was first introduced, many predicted that it would mean an end to work as we know it. No longer would people need to follow directions or repetitive tasks—robots could do all of that for them. Fast forward a few years and AI still hasn’t replaced most jobs—but it has had a profound impact on some of them. As we move into an age of smarter machines, AI is expected to take over more and more roles previously done by humans. And by 2022, robots could make up half of those who work in transportation and logistics.
Automation Takes Over Basic Tasks
While some workers see automation as a threat, experts say it’s just going to become more common. We already have robots on assembly lines, but there are automated machines for everything from delivering food to running office errands and doing legal research. Meanwhile, AI can take over brainwork like processing information or analyzing data. To ensure that you remain employable, focus on higher-level tasks such as coming up with solutions and strategies. Be prepared to do more coaching and training—especially of younger employees who don’t yet have those skillsets—and cultivate emotional intelligence so you can work effectively with your colleagues (human or otherwise).
Wearable Technology Becomes Bigger
Wearable technology is growing by leaps and bounds. It’s a $6 billion industry already, and it’s set to double that value by 2017. Wearables are still new to most people, but you can expect these devices to become more streamlined, powerful, and portable over time. The tech we wear may one day replace all of our smartphones, as companies like Apple and Google are starting to make wearable technology far more prominent. Wearables won’t just help keep us in contact with others; they’ll also help us get work done easier than ever before. How many meetings have you sat through with your phone in hand? How much wasted time do you think that represents?
