Jobs without a future: these professions are threatened with extinction

Jobs that once formed the backbone of our economy are gradually disappearing. Because, due to new technological possibilities, machines are taking on additional tasks while people need to find new ways to remain relevant in their careers. In this article, we provide you with an overview of which industries are particularly affected by these developments and which professions are becoming jobs without a future. 

Why it is important to know these developments

Due to constant change, it is crucial to react early to declining industries. With this knowledge, you can actively manage your career and adjust to new developments in time. It also helps you better understand economic contexts and make informed decisions about further education. 

Automation and Production Jobs

Affected Jobs: Assembly line workers, simple warehouse jobs 

Robots and advanced machines increasingly take over repetitive tasks previously performed by humans. Companies are embracing automation to remain competitive and reduce production costs. Although new jobs in the maintenance and programming of these systems are being created, classic production jobs such as assembly line and warehouse work are becoming less needed. 

Traditional Retail

Affected Jobs: Salespeople in brick-and-mortar retail, cashiers 

The boom of online trade has led to more and more customers shopping from the comfort of their homes. Brick-and-mortar stores are losing importance, and thus the demand for salespeople and cashiers is shrinking. Even though some areas such as luxury goods and personal advice will continue to exist, the number of traditional retail jobs will decline. 

Print Media

Affected Jobs: Printers, publishing employees, traditional journalists 

With digital media platforms, the print industry is under great pressure. Today, readers expect quick updates in real-time, which traditional print media like newspapers and magazines cannot offer. The decline in demand not only affects journalists but also printers and publishing employees who cannot adapt to digital formats. 

Simple Office Work

Affected Jobs: Data entry clerks, assistants for repetitive tasks 

Artificial intelligence and automation software are taking over more and more administrative tasks. What was once done by data entry clerks or assistants can now be efficiently and accurately handled by algorithms. This results in many simple office jobs disappearing, while jobs in the field of software development and data analysis increase. 

Fossil Energy Industry

Affected Jobs: Coal power plant workers, oil rig operators 

Strict environmental laws and societal pressure for decarbonization mean that fossil fuels are increasingly in less demand. Countries and companies are instead focusing on renewable energies such as solar and wind power. The fossil energy industry is thus losing importance, while new jobs are emerging in the green energy sector. 

Traditional Banks

Affected Jobs: Bank employees, traditional advisors 

Digital banks and fintechs offer fast, cost-effective solutions that traditional banks often cannot provide. Classic bank jobs such as advisors or counter employees are losing significance. At the same time, there is an increasing demand for professionals who can develop and manage digital financial solutions. 

Using Change as an Opportunity

The presented developments show how drastically the job market will change in the coming years. Automation, digitalization, and ecological change are driving this transformation. If you react early and prepare specifically for promising areas, you can not only master the challenges of the working world and avoid jobs without a future but also open up new opportunities and career possibilities for yourself.  

Time for a job change? Here you can find jobs in your region.