IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has announced that the company plans to halt hiring in back-office functions, such as human resources, as approximately 7,800 jobs could potentially be replaced by artificial intelligence (AI) in the coming years.
He explained that around 30% of non-customer-facing roles could be replaced by AI and automation within the next five years. This announcement reflects the company’s efforts to cut costs and boost profits. IBM has not yet provided a detailed timeline for the hiring freeze.
The Rise of AI
AI has become increasingly popular in recent years, and the launch of Microsoft Corp-backed OpenAI’s chatbot, ChatGPT, in November 2022, has further fuelled interest in the technology. However, this trend has raised concerns about its impact on employment, as machines and algorithms can now perform tasks that were previously performed by humans.
The Future of Employment
Krishna’s announcement is not the first of its kind, as other tech giants have also announced similar measures. For instance, Google has recently announced a hiring freeze for all new roles that are not directly related to its core business. While AI and automation have the potential to improve efficiency and reduce costs, there are concerns that these technologies could lead to job displacement and exacerbate income inequality.
The Way Forward
As technology continues to evolve, it is important for companies to adopt a forward-thinking approach to address these challenges. One potential solution is to provide training and reskilling programs for employees who are at risk of being displaced by automation. Another solution is to focus on creating new jobs in emerging industries, such as renewable energy, healthcare, and education.
IBM’s decision to halt hiring is a reminder that as technology advances, the job market will continue to change. It is important for companies and governments to work together to ensure that the benefits of technological progress are shared more equitably and that workers are given the necessary support to adapt to the changing job market.
