Wait-and-See No Longer a Strategy: Bitter Pill Many Will Not Swallow

 Pre-AI, as the law of supply and demand seemed to be shifting, a prudent strategy had been wait-and-see. 

Given what AI can already do and what it's anticipated it will be able do, that could be classified as downright stupid. Those helping the software-as-a-service sector navigate being wiped out by AI recommend rapid resets. 

For most industries negatively impacted by AI, I make the same recommendation. But even if I position and package that gently, I pick up that most aren't listening. There is magical thinking that hiring, promotions and employment security will return to what had been. The issue to them is when, not an if.

Walking away from how you used to make a good living is so difficult for three reasons:

Sunk costs. You got that MBA. You paid plenty of "dues" learning your field. The family life you sacrificed.

Being so good at it. Hearing this justification for staying-put can be quite tiresome. I bite my tongue and don't point out that there had been quite a number of excellent blacksmiths in town as the Model-T hit the road. Those who didn't transition to the auto era probably couldn't support their family.

Entitlement. Those from happy families somehow get the notion that they are special. And special people have the right to have things go their way. When that doesn't happen, disbelief can take hold. We with lousy childhoods usually have no expectations of being blessed. 

However, delay in a reset can result in losing it all. That ranges from confidence to financial assets. Professional anonymous networks such as Reddit, Fishbowl, Blind and Glassdoor are filled with laments by the chronically unemployed. Most were waiting for the return of some kind of golden age in their line of work. Since they are no longer "work ready," they can't even land survival contract assignments. 

Continuing to earn a good living is coming down to this: Change before you have to.

Careers. Forget all that. It’s about earning a good living, no matter what.

Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova, StreetSmart Coaching (janegenova374@gmail.com)


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