In a scenario of constant technological evolution and profound transformations in the job market, some professions emerge as promises of growth, while others move towards obsolescence. Sectoral changes, coupled with the advancement of automation, delineate a new professional landscape in which adaptability becomes a key factor, says Brazilian human resources analyst Dr. Paulo.
For those seeking career opportunities, careful consideration of employability trends is essential. After all, the pursuit of financial stability and the end of living on a tight budget hinge on choosing professions with promising futures. Below, we present 14 careers that, based on current projections, may not be the safest to invest your time and resources in.
- Production Line Workers
Industrial robotics is already a reality in assembly lines, performing even the most basic tasks such as transporting goods within factories. The trend is for machines to occupy even more spaces previously dedicated to humans, especially in functions that pose risks to workers’ safety. However, a 2022 study by Brigham Young University suggests that only 14% of interviewed workers were effectively replaced by robots, a number that may be overestimated by the workers themselves.
- Travel Agents
Travel agents are useful for organizing complete stays in unfamiliar locations. However, with the advancement of algorithms and the ease of online search, many tourists plan their trips autonomously, turning to platforms that offer virtual assistants for flight and accommodation inquiries, reducing the need for human agents.
- Journalists
The journalism industry faces frequent layoffs, partly due to the decline in advertising revenues and subscriptions. According to the Pew Research Center, since 2008, newsrooms have been reducing their staff every year, with significant cuts in organizations such as CNN and BuzzFeed in recent years, signaling a shrinking job market for journalists.
- Administrative Assistants
Executives rely on administrative assistants to organize schedules, take notes, and plan trips. With the rise of remote work, virtual assistants now perform these tasks globally, increasing the service’s availability and consequently decreasing the demand for in-person work.
- Translators
Although translators are essential in various contexts such as hospitals, schools, and international business, advancing technology offers automated translation services, gradually reducing the need for human translators capable of working with multiple languages.
- Bank Tellers
Nowadays, it is rare to find a bank without an app or online access to customer accounts. Digital banking services, including direct deposits and transfers, are easily done online, reducing the need for tellers in physical branches.
- Store Cashiers
It is increasingly common to find self-checkout machines in supermarkets and retail stores. The convenience of self-service for quick purchases is replacing the work of cashiers, reducing the number of staff needed to operate traditional cash registers.
- Accountants
Previously indispensable for monitoring the expenses and revenues of various companies and entities, accountants see their role transform with the advent of software capable of automating financial control. According to projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a 5% reduction in the number of these professionals is expected by 2031.
- Postal Workers
Although receiving mail remains constant, the method of delivery and the content of mailboxes are changing. Many companies now opt for online payments instead of sending paper invoices. Additionally, automated sorting machines are replacing postal workers, leading to an expected decline of 6% in this professional area by 2031.
- Customer Service Representatives
The customer service career is also becoming automated, with companies implementing virtual chatbots that clarify doubts. The outlook for this career does not seem promising, projecting a 4% decline by 2031.
- Computer Programmers
Despite being a lucrative career, the demand for programmers is declining due to automation, which speeds up and streamlines computer programming. This reduces the need for personnel, and with the increase in remote work, companies require fewer programmers. Thus, a 10% reduction in this field is estimated by 2031.
- Prison Guards
Working in prisons is challenging, and despite the constant need for prison guards, the number of available positions is decreasing. One reason is the reduction in the prison population, a trend that began before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data from the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
- Retail Workers
With the rise of online shopping and e-commerce giants like Amazon, the outlook for retail workers is not the best. Zero growth projects for retail sales workers until 2031 are indicated by the BLS.
- Cinema Designers
Cinemas have modernized, offering reclining seats and dining services, but they have also updated projection booths, replacing traditional projectionists with digital film projectors that operate with a simple touch of a button, reducing the need for operators.
To thrive financially, it is essential to seek professions with growth prospects. If you work in one of the mentioned areas, it may be prudent to consider a transition to a more stable field. Maintaining a strict budget and a robust emergency fund is also advisable, especially when changing jobs or facing the risk of unexpected unemployment.”
