Generative AI: Opportunities and Impacts on the Workforce
Generative AI is being recognized as a tool to boost productivity, cut down on busy work, and help close skills gaps in the workforce. A recent study focused on Chile’s job market offers clear data on how much AI can speed up tasks and which jobs stand to benefit the most.
The study found that nearly half of the tasks in Chile’s 100 most common jobs could be completed much faster using generative AI, without losing quality. This means AI can take over routine tasks, freeing people to focus on more valuable and creative work.
About 80% of Chilean workers hold jobs where at least 30% of tasks could be accelerated by AI. The estimated value of the time saved is equivalent to nearly 12% of Chile’s gross domestic product. But realizing these gains depends heavily on how well organizations implement AI, train their staff, and set the right policies.
Measuring AI’s Impact by Task
Instead of just looking at job titles, the research breaks work down into specific tasks. Each task is evaluated by how much AI can reduce its completion time by at least 50% without harming quality. This creates an “acceleration opportunity” score that shows how AI can make a job more efficient.
Which Jobs Are Poised for AI Boosts?
- Software developers lead with an 87% potential increase in efficiency.
- Policy specialists follow closely at 84%.
- Data analysts can expect around 80% acceleration.
On the other hand, physically demanding jobs like construction and packaging have fewer tasks suitable for AI acceleration.
Some roles could see large economic gains:
- Accountants: $1.7 billion annually
- Lawyers: $1.6 billion annually
- Technical engineers: $1.3 billion annually
- Retail and warehouse operators: $1.3 billion annually
AI’s Role in Education and Public Services
Generative AI could also ease workloads in essential services. For example, elementary school teachers in Chile could reclaim over $1.2 billion worth of time. This is crucial amid a growing teacher shortage. Public administration is another key area, with over $1.1 billion in potential value by streamlining tasks like data entry and document drafting.
More than 84,000 government employees could benefit from AI tools to handle routine administrative work, speeding up processes and reducing backlogs.
Supporting Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises
SMEs make up 65% of Chile’s workforce and nearly all businesses. These companies show strong potential for AI acceleration, especially in sales, customer service, and operations. However, many SMEs still lack the digital infrastructure and skills to adopt AI effectively. Focused support and training will be necessary to help these businesses take advantage.
Not All Jobs Benefit Equally
While AI tends to boost efficiency more in mid-to-upper income jobs, the benefits level off or decrease for the highest-paid roles. Senior executives and medical professionals, for example, rely heavily on human judgment and interaction—areas where AI currently has limited impact.
Where to Start with AI
The study suggests focusing on “quick wins” — roles where AI can make an immediate difference with low resistance. This means targeting admin-heavy tasks in schools, government offices, and SMEs. Early successes in these areas can build momentum for wider AI adoption.
To maximize generative AI’s benefits, it’s critical to focus on tasks where it works best and ensure practical implementation through training and policy support.
For those interested in learning how to integrate AI tools into their work or business, resources like Complete AI Training offer courses and guides tailored to various skill levels and job roles.
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