AI job worries grow. But some human skills can’t be replaced by machin

A growing fear that artificial intelligence could make some workers redundant is adding to anxiety in offices and public services, according to a Guardian Business commentary on the mental strain of workplace change.

The piece, written by Gaynor Parkin and Dave Winsborough, focuses on the emotional impact of AI-driven restructuring rather than the technology itself. It describes the sense of uncertainty that can follow announcements about cost-cutting and automation, especially when employees believe their roles may be affected but are given limited clarity.

The article points to one case, identified as Paul*, who learned through media reports that his business group had been included in a round of job cuts, along with several other public-sector agencies. The report says this was the second major disruption to his employment in recent years, after his technical management role was reorganised in 2024. This time, the messaging around the changes emphasised the use of AI as a way to reduce costs. Paul is quoted as saying that while the company framed the move as something other than direct layoffs, the result for his team would be the same.

The timing, according to the article, made the situation more difficult. Paul and his partner are expecting a child and have recently bought their first home, adding financial and personal pressure at the same time as work uncertainty.

Rather than presenting AI as purely a threat, the column argues that certain human qualities will remain difficult for machines to replace. It highlights three in particular: curiosity, humility and emotional intelligence. Curiosity is described as the willingness to seek out new learning, ideas and perspectives beyond familiar sources. Humility is framed as self-awareness, the ability to recognise strengths and weaknesses, and openness to feedback from trusted people. Emotional intelligence is presented as the capacity to connect with others, show empathy and communicate carefully.

The authors suggest that these traits may become even more valuable as AI becomes more common in the workplace. They also encourage people to stay engaged with the wider world rather than relying only on screens and algorithms for inspiration and information.

The report is based on a monitored public feed and reflects commentary published in The Guardian Business. Source attribution is included below.

Source: The Guardian Business - https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jul/20/ai-job-worries-human-skills-machines-cant-replace