Whose Job Can AI Do?

In my career, I’ve had jobs that made me wonder why a robot wasn’t already doing them. Many of us think our roles are too challenging, nuanced, or human to be replaced by AI. Ironically, it’s the creatives—those whose work seems most grounded in personal expression—who appear the most concerned. After all, AI can now generate art, compose symphonies, and even write poetry. But here’s the thing: no one goes to hear an artificial symphony. Or do they?

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is largely synthesized, yet its fans don’t care whether it’s a machine or a human maintaining the beat. However, consider Ravel's Bolero. No one gives a standing ovation to the drum machine that could replicate its unrelenting snare. Why? Because remarkable things are remarkable for a reason. Practiced skill has value beyond the mere output—it’s the story behind the effort, the humanity imbued in the work.

More Than Just Tasks

Your value as an individual, especially in the context of work, isn’t limited to completing well-defined tasks in a systematic way. It’s about infusing your humanity into what you do. AI can be witty, insightful, and even empathetic, but there’s something ineffable about being human—something that gives our work purpose and meaning.

Let me share a story from my past.

As a department store sales associate, I worked in the men’s department, where most days were relatively routine. But one day, I had the pleasure of assisting an older gentleman who asked so many questions about men’s fashion. He explained he was only recently transitioning and was thrilled to be exploring this new aspect of himself. I helped him choose items, shared some styling tips, and celebrated his excitement over shaving. We had a wonderful conversation.

Could an AI have answered his questions? Absolutely. Could it have offered the same empathy, connection, and shared humanity? Probably not. And that’s the point.

What AI Means for Our Work

AI will change how we work—it already has. It can make tasks faster and more efficient. But it can’t replace the human ability to connect, inspire, and innovate in ways that transcend functionality. As we embrace these new tools, we must remember that AI isn’t a replacement for human ingenuity; it’s a partner that amplifies it.

Whether you’re a creative, a technician, or a strategist, your job might look different in the future, but your humanity will always be the differentiator. Together with AI, we can achieve more than ever before. What we do may evolve, but why we matter will not.

So, whose job can AI do? The answer lies not in tasks, but in the uniquely human touch that no algorithm can replicate.