Amidst the apprehension surrounding AI-driven change, it’s time to shift our perspective. Rather than viewing AI as a looming threat, we need to acknowledge its potential as a source of untapped opportunities.

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving modern workplace that is continually being shaped by rapid technological change, concerns about job losses caused by new technologies like AI are natural. However, for many roles, AI will help humans complete their jobs, improve efficiency and manage a greater workload. It won’t replace human workers.

AI can be the driving force behind new employment opportunities, fostering growth for individuals and

businesses alike, while creating new roles. The key lies in reskilling and adapting, ensuring the workforce stays relevant amidst AI integration. 

AI is predicted to create new jobs

At the World Economic Forum panel in Davos, Leo Varadkar, the Taioseach (Irish Prime Minister), challenged the prevailing fear of AI-induced job losses. He suggested that AI is poised to be a major job creator, challenging the prevailing narrative. 

The World Economic Forum predicts that while AI may replace around 85 million jobs by 2025, it will create approximately 97 million new roles, leading to a net jobs growth.

Breaking down language barriers in business is one compelling way that AI can change the job landscape and promote diversity and inclusion in business. It’s also a way to fuel long term business growth by opening up more job opportunities and new markets to expand into. 

How AI is breaking down workplace language barriers 

A report by Cardiff University suggests that over time the trade cost to the UK resulting from language barriers has varied in magnitude, but has been consistently large. Embracing the transformative power of AI to enhance efficiency, drive innovation and break down language barriers in any industry is crucial. The ability to seamlessly integrate AI to create diverse business landscapes should be seen as an exciting gamechanger. 

AI should be leveraged to remove language barriers to allow businesses to thrive. For instance, AI-powered translation tools are available, like Pocketalk’s SENTIO, a web-based software solution for virtual and in person meetings that offers accurate, fast, seamless and secure translated conversations for any scenario. 

These tools are making it easier for employees from diverse linguistic backgrounds to communicate effectively within the organisation.  AI-powered translation tools can translate written and spoken language in real-time, breaking down language barriers and facilitating collaboration among teams regardless of their native languages. These tools also help companies to open up job markets by recruiting workers from new overseas job markets who don’t speak English as their first language. 

Improving diversity and inclusion in the workplace

AI-driven language processing tools help in making communication more accessible to employees with disabilities, such as those who are deaf or hard of hearing. By transcribing spoken words into text or translating sign language into spoken language, AI ensures that all employees can participate fully in meetings, discussions, and other interaction.

As well as boosting diversity and inclusion, AI is also changing job roles within corporations and creating brand new positions. For example, corporations are increasingly hiring AI specialists to develop and implement language processing algorithms and tools. These professionals are responsible for training AI models, optimising algorithms, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of language-related AI applications.

At the same time, as corporations prioritise diversity and inclusion initiatives, the role of diversity and inclusion officers is becoming more prominent. These professionals can leverage AI-driven analytics to monitor diversity metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategies to foster a more inclusive workplace environment, including addressing language barriers.

Ultimately, AI is revolutionising the way corporations address language barriers, promoting diversity and inclusion while also creating new job opportunities and reshaping existing roles within the organisation.

By Jess O’Dwyer, general manager for Europe at Pocketalk,