AI prompts career reconsideration

As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into daily work, some French professionals are rethinking their careers, choosing manual jobs seen as more secure against AI disruption.

Manual jobs seen as safer

An analysis by the Observatoire des emplois menacés et émergents (OEM) in partnership with Coface suggests that jobs involving manual labor or complex human interactions—like production, construction, and maintenance—are less at risk from AI. These roles are harder to automate due to their physical or unpredictable nature.

Career shifts in response to AI

A 20-year secretary, for example, found her job increasingly affected by AI, especially in tasks like writing and scheduling. She enrolled in a CAP (Certificate of Professional Aptitude) in floristry, believing that manual and creative work could not be replaced by AI. A graphic design student, meanwhile, felt his field was vulnerable to AI and considered switching to more manual professions like hospitality or construction.

Market expert weighs in

Eric Gras, a specialist in the job market at Indeed, says there is no current evidence of a large-scale shift from white-collar to blue-collar jobs in France. However, he predicts that as salary transparency increases, younger workers may begin to see manual jobs as offering competitive earnings, challenging traditional educational paths.

Advice on adapting to AI

Gérald Maury, director regional of Mon CEP, warns against alarmism and advises workers to assess their AI risk exposure, identify transferable skills, and explore alternatives to abrupt career changes. A 2026 barometer on professional evolution shows that 36% of workers are starting to think about their future careers, with a growing preference for staying in their current sectors for stability and experience.