AI Adoption Slowed Hiring in Exposed Industries
New data shows how artificial intelligence integration has shifted global labor market demand and hiring plans.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Employment
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A report from Goldman Sachs Research highlights that industries with high automation exposure have experienced a notable decline in job openings since the second half of 2022. The research, which analyzed over 800 occupations, reveals that firms are re-evaluating hiring strategies as they integrate generative AI tools.
Why it matters
The shift in hiring reflects how businesses are using automation to fill roles that were previously entry-level positions, directly impacting employment trends. This pivot has created measurable obstacles for job seekers in sectors highly vulnerable to automation technology.
AI adoption rates currently range from 15% to 20% in major developed economies compared to 10% to 15% in emerging markets. Across the 800 occupations analyzed, every 10% increase in exposure to AI corresponds to a 0.1 percentage point drag on annual headcount growth.
The players
Goldman Sachs Research
The investment bank's analysis arm, which tracks global economic trends and market metrics.
The details
Companies are increasingly relying on automated solutions, which has disrupted hiring processes for entry-level roles. By integrating generative AI, firms have effectively reduced their reliance on human labor in highly exposed industries. This structural change in employment occurs as industries re-evaluate their operational needs following initial technology integration.
Timeline
The slowdown in job openings in exposed industries began during the second half of 2022.
Goldman Sachs Research published its findings on September 20, 2026.
Money Landscape
This report updates the current understanding of how technology integration impacts labor market liquidity on a global scale. It marks a clear departure from traditional hiring cycles by linking headcount growth directly to specific automation exposure benchmarks.
Job seekers in high-exposure sectors like call centers should prepare for a more competitive entry-level market where automated tools are becoming standard. Consider speaking with a career counselor or financial professional about how to upskill in areas less susceptible to immediate automation.
The takeaway
The integration of AI into the workplace is demonstrably cooling job openings in specific high-exposure industries. Monitor your sector's hiring trends and maintain a current resume that highlights skills which require human-centric problem solving.
Further reading
For broader trends on the current labor market, review the latest analysis in Employment.
Live Poll
Do you believe the adoption of AI in your industry makes finding entry-level work more difficult?
