FOBO taking hold as AI spreads job security fears

A survey by Totaljobs, covering 2,000 UK workers and 900 employers, found that 42% of workers worry their skills will become outdated due to AI and automation, a phenomenon labeled as FOBO (fear of becoming obsolete). The research highlights growing concern over long-term career relevance amid rapid technological change reshaping job markets. Meanwhile, China’s humanoid robot industry is advancing rapidly, with Engine AI launching its Intelligent Manufacturing Base in Shenzhen. The first batch of T800 humanoid robots is now entering production, signaling large-scale adoption of advanced robotics in industries. The survey coincides with a competitive UK hiring landscape, where vacancies have dropped to a five-year low of 705,000, increasing pressure on workers to adapt. Despite this, hiring confidence among employers has risen to 70%, particularly in IT (68% expect growth), manufacturing (64%), and professional services (52%). Workers are responding by taking on extra responsibilities (72%), learning new skills (83%), and adopting AI tools (37%). However, 71% believe employers must invest more in training to address job security concerns. Employers face challenges, including longer hiring times (12 weeks on average) and difficulty finding candidates with the right skills (32%). Demand for AI, machine learning, technology, and data-related roles is surging, with 34% of employers prioritizing these skills. Talent acquisition teams are also expanding their roles to align with shifting workforce needs, with 83% now involved in workplace planning. Despite economic uncertainty, 43% of organizations are increasing recruitment, and 84% of candidates are open to new opportunities. The data suggests a labor market adapting to change rather than declining, with a focus on skills-based hiring and continuous upskilling.