A Navigos survey on human resource trends revealed that businesses expect certain job groups to shrink or even disappear in the next 3-5 years amidst the wave of digitalization and automation. Leading this trend are repetitive, simple, and standardized tasks, which are easily replaced by technology like online payments, chatbots, or automated authentication systems.

The survey identified several roles at high risk. Utility bill collectors topped the list at 49%, followed by data entry clerks at 33%, telemarketers at 31%, and ticket checkers at 30%. Semi-skilled jobs are also impacted by digital technology, e-commerce, robots, and automated assembly lines, including bank tellers (25%), door-to-door salespeople and newspaper delivery personnel (17%), and manual or semi-manual laborers (15%). Skilled professional jobs, such as accountants, bookkeepers, and payroll specialists, are also seeing a decline at 14%, as are translators and interpreters, also at 14%. This reflects AI's expansion into specialized fields, driven by financial automation software and high-quality translation tools.

Data entry personnel at a fishing port in Da Nang. Photo: Van Dong

Despite concerns that AI and technology make jobs "inhumane and less interactive," a Coc Coc Research survey found that 36% of workers view AI as an opportunity for development. Many workers hope AI will reduce tedious tasks, allowing them to focus on creative work. However, most agree that sensitive human-related tasks should not be entrusted to AI.

Specifically, 59% believe AI should not handle conflicts with colleagues or customers. Another 58% relate to important decision-making and strategy, and 44% concern evaluating employee capabilities and emotions (recruitment/review). Furthermore, 27% involve generating original ideas, and 20% pertain to empathetic and sharing communications.

Experts predict that in 2026, the job market will remain highly segmented by profession, forcing workers to shift their mindset from job stability to skill stability. Surveys indicate that workers are not complacent; they are actively reskilling or acquiring new competencies through self-study, short courses, and in-depth programs. While AI offers powerful support, workers should not just learn to use it but also understand its operation and contextual application to gain a real advantage. Irreplaceable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, creativity, and rapid adaptability need parallel investment. Positioning oneself in the job market, rather than relying solely on degrees, requires a competency profile showcasing skills, certifications, and tangible work results.

Hong Chieu