One third of knowledge workers considering career change over AI concerns

A third of knowledge workers are considering moving to a different industry because of concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on their careers, according to a new survey from Adaptavist. The poll of 2,500 professionals in the UK, US, Canada, Germany and Spain, claims that 33 percent are actively looking to change industries due to fears about AI. A quarter of respondents said they are specifically considering moving into sectors they believe are less exposed to automation, including manual occupations.

The findings suggest concerns about AI are influencing career decisions across a broad section of the workforce. While much attention has focused on the impact of AI on entry-level roles, the research indicates that more experienced employees are also reassessing their long-term prospects.

The trend is particularly pronounced among younger workers. More than four in ten Gen Z respondents said they are considering changing industries because of AI-related concerns, compared with 37 percent of Millennials.

More than half of respondents said they are worried that AI will reduce the need for their role within the next five years, while 40 percent believe the technology could make their current position obsolete altogether. Nearly half said they are frustrated that tasks which previously required years of specialist expertise can now be completed using AI tools.

The research also points to concerns about the perceived value of professional knowledge and experience. Almost a quarter of respondents said they feel their expertise has become less valued within their organisation since the widespread adoption of AI.

Alongside fears about job security, many workers reported feeling overwhelmed by the pace of technological change. Nearly half said they are struggling with the volume of AI-related information and updates, while 39 percent reported difficulty keeping up with developments. More than a third said they have reduced their use of AI tools because of what the report describes as “AI fatigue”.

Despite these concerns, most respondents said they are taking steps to adapt. Nearly three quarters reported actively learning new skills to remain relevant in their current field. Others are considering leaving the workforce altogether. More than a third said AI has prompted them to think about retiring earlier than planned, while 11 percent said they intend to retire within the next two years. According to the report, 37 percent of workers reported lower levels of engagement, suggesting businesses risk losing experienced staff if concerns about AI are not addressed.