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A new report shows the most in-demand jobs as artificial intelligence and automation transform industries around the world.
The future of work of the World Economic Forum (WEF). report (PDF link) lists the jobs that are expected to grow the most in the next five years.
Here’s what you need to know.
The impact of artificial intelligence on the labor market
The report surveyed more than 1,000 global executives, representing more than 14 million workers in 55 economies.
Most executives—86%— believe that AI and related technologies will significantly change their business by 2030.
Key points include:
- AI and information processing: This technology is expected to create about 11 million new jobs while displacing about 9 million, leading to net job growth in artificial intelligence fields.
- Robotics and autonomous systems: While some jobs may be replaced, many positions will support robotic tasks.
- Expanding digital access: 60% companies consider it essential for their business.
Despite advances in artificial intelligence, human workers are still crucial. New job opportunities will emerge in big data, cybersecurity and people-centric roles such as talent management and customer service.
Fastest growing jobs
Technology-related roles are expected to grow the most through 2030, according to the report.
Leading positions are like:
- Big data specialists
- FinTech engineers
- Experts in artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Software and application developers
- Security management experts
- Data storage experts
- Experts in autonomous and electric vehicles
- UI and UX designers
- Drivers of light trucks or delivery services
- Internet of Things experts
- Data analysts and scientists
- Environmental protection engineers
- Information security analysts
- DevOps Engineer
- Renewable energy engineers
The demand for technology workers is growing as businesses adopt AI, information processing technologies and robotics.
The report states that “AI and big data are the fastest growing skills,” followed by networking, cybersecurity and technology literacy.
Green jobs, such as electric vehicle specialists and environmental engineers, are also among the fastest-growing jobs due to efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
While tech jobs are growing the fastest in percentage terms, the biggest increase in actual jobs is expected to be in traditional first-line roles.
This includes:
- Agricultural workers, laborers and other agricultural workers
- Drivers of light trucks or delivery services
- Software and application developers
- Construction, finishing and related trades
- Shop assistants
- Workers in the food industry and related trades
- Car, van and motorcycle drivers
- Care professionals
- Food and beverage service workers
- General and operational managers
- Specialists in social work and counseling
- Project managers
- University and higher education teachers
- Secondary education teachers
- Personal care assistants
Jobs in the care economy, such as care professionals, social workers, counselors and personal care assistants, are also expected to increase significantly.
The most sought-after skills
As business roles change, so do the skills needed to perform them successfully.
The Future of Jobs report reveals what workers can expect on average 39% their core skills obsolete in the next five years.
However, this “skill volatility” has slowed compared to forecasts in previous editions of the report, potentially due to increased rates of retraining and upskilling of employees.
Employers surveyed identified the following as the top skills workers will need in 2025 and beyond:
- Analytical thinking
- Resilience, flexibility and agility
- Leadership and social influence
- AI and big data
- Networks and cyber security
- Technological literacy
- Creative thinking
- Curiosity and lifelong learning
- Environmental management
- Systems thinking
Skills such as manual dexterity, endurance, accuracy and basic skills such as reading, writing and mathematics are expected to be less in demand.
The report states:
“Manual dexterity, endurance and precision stand out with a noticeable net decline in skill demand, s 24% respondents predicting a decrease in their importance.”
Workforce preparation
The report highlights the need for upskilling and retraining of workers due to upcoming skill changes. Employers can upgrade skills 29% of its staff and redistribute 19%but 11% they may not receive the necessary training.
The report states:
“If the world’s workforce consisted of 100 people, by 2030, 59 of them would need to be trained.”
In order to meet these challenges, 85% of employers plans to focus on the training of existing workers, 70% will hire new staff with the necessary skills, and 50% aims to move workers from declining jobs to growing ones.
Saadia Zahidi, director of the World Economic Forum, emphasized the need for joint action:
“The disruptions of recent years have highlighted the importance of foresight and collective action. We hope this report will drive an ambitious multi-stakeholder agenda—one that will equip workers, businesses, governments, educators and civil society to navigate the complex transitions ahead.”
What does this mean?
The rise of AI and data-driven marketing is changing the roles of SEO.
Here’s what’s important:
- SEO professionals need the basics of artificial intelligence. An understanding of machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), and analytics tools is becoming essential for managing automated systems and optimizing content.
- While AI helps create content, it requires human insight to succeed. Focus on storytelling and brand strategy that connects with users and meets search intent.
- Better tools mean more data. The winners will be those who can turn metrics into effective campaigns and prove ROI.
- Knowledge of privacy and data protection sets you apart. Expect more overlap with security teams.
- SEO is no longer a solo job. Success means working well with developers, AI teams and product managers.
Bottom line: Blend AI and analytical skills with human creativity and strategy to stay competitive.
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