London, UK — Despite widespread concern among British workers that artificial intelligence (AI) is taking over entry-level jobs, new research from HR platform HiBob indicates these fears are largely overstated. Instead, AI appears to be shifting graduates directly into higher-level positions, fundamentally reshaping the early career landscape.
A study of 2,000 UK workers, including 500 HR leaders, reveals that while 85% of British employees believe AI is displacing entry-level roles, the reality for HR professionals paints a different picture. Almost three-quarters (73%) of HR leaders report they have been able to hire graduates directly into more advanced positions, bypassing traditional entry points, thanks to AI.
AI’s Role in Elevating Entry-Level Work
The research highlights that AI has enhanced, rather than eliminated, early career roles. Over a third (38%) of HR professionals have observed that the automation of routine tasks by AI allows entry-level workers to focus on more strategic or analytical responsibilities. Furthermore, 24% state that AI has reduced the required years of experience for certain positions.
This shift has led to an evolution in the skills HR professionals seek in candidates. Forty-five percent now prioritise stronger technical or digital skills to enable effective collaboration with AI tools, and a quarter (25%) note that roles have become more complex or higher in scope.
Navigating the Perception Gap
Despite these changes, a significant portion of workers (35%) still believe graduates will not be able to skip traditional entry-level positions. Their advice to those entering the workforce often includes gaining hands-on experience (52%), even outside their ideal field, building strong soft skills (40%), and investing in training that enhances employability without necessarily requiring a degree (30%).
The idea AI will replace half of all entry-level jobs is overstated
Ronni Zehavi, CEO and Co-founder of HiBob, commented on the findings. “The idea AI will replace half of all entry-level jobs is overstated,” he said. “There is no doubt AI is taking on many routine tasks typically linked to junior roles, but that does not mean those roles are disappearing; they just look different.”
Zehavi emphasised that AI operates most effectively with human oversight, and proficiency in using AI tools will be a key differentiator in the job market. “Employers have a responsibility to train their people, not only to boost productivity but to prepare them for the future of work,” he added. “The businesses empowering workers with AI skills—whether they are just starting their career or are well-established professionals—will outpace those cutting entry-level jobs and making redundancies in the name of AI adoption. AI does not replace people; it allows them to do more with more.”
The study also found that despite fears of job replacement, AI adoption remains relatively low, with less than a quarter (24%) of workers regularly using AI tools in their daily workflow. This underscores the need for businesses to actively champion AI as a tool for empowerment and productivity