Nearly 4 in 10 companies will replace workers with AI by 2026, survey shows

🎯 Impact Sentiment: Concerning

📋 Summary

• 37% of companies expect to replace jobs with AI by the end of 2026, with nearly 30% having already done so.
• High-earners, employees lacking AI skills, recent hires, and entry-level staff are at the greatest risk of being laid off for immediate cost savings or lacking relevant skills.
• Hiring is slowing down, serial layoffs are on the rise, and most workforce cuts are driven by economic uncertainty, trade policy, and AI adoption.
• While many employers are investing in reskilling and upskilling current employees, rapid layoffs and a focus on cost-cutting are hurting morale and eroding critical skills in the workforce.

💡 JR Insights

• 💼 Implication: If your job pays well but doesn't require AI, or you're new to the company or workforce, you’re in the layoff crosshairs. Companies want people fluent in AI—either you adapt or risk becoming obsolete.
• 🚨 Risk: Relying on tenure or sticking to current skill sets is risky; repeated, unpredictable layoffs make long-term career stability shaky, and fast pivots to automation mean there’s little time to catch up if you fall behind.
• ✨ Takeaway: Upskill, and do it now—especially in AI and related tech. Don't ignore soft skills like adaptability or critical thinking; those who combine technical know-how with solid people skills will stand out and stay employed.