In 2021, when this book was published, I hadn’t even given automation much thought. I was aware that it existed in the systems I used personally and professionally, but I was just about recovering from lockdown and the pandemic to think about it much more! However, as the years have progressed and the discussions about AI and tech have got louder, I decided to spend more of my personal development time on it. And nothing beats learning about the beast that is automation, than through one of the oldest methods in the world, a PRINTED book. Today I want to share my thoughts on “Futureproof”* by Kevin Rose.
It’s important for me to share titles that are written by a variety of people. When it comes to technology and how it will change our lives and careers, there are two groups of people I trust the most to stay as neutral as possible. Researchers and specialist journalists. Kevin Roose is the latter.
Futureproof is “a guide to staying relevant in the machine age by becoming irreplaceable human”. It is not about convincing you to embrace AI or automation; it’s a realistic appraisal of the realities of what is being driven, and why, by whom. I started the book not really knowing what to expect; I admit I started reading with a slightly defensive, critical eye. However, I discovered that I have more in common with the Tech Columnist of The New York Times than I expected. As mentioned in the blurb, “Kevin Roose has spent years studying the question of how people and organizations avoid being overtaken by periods of massive change.” I think we are very much on the same page.
The first half reflects on what is entitled “The Machines”, with the second part a thorough covering of each of his nine rules, including: “Demote your Devices, Leave Handprints and Don’t be an Endpoint”. You leave the book with more questions than you started with, but with hope that you can stay in control of your career path. I don’t know how wide spread the advice for all roles and sectors is, but I think it’s a great place to start!
So, if this has whet your appetite, these are the four things you need to know about “Futureproof”.
- It’s not what, but who.
Roose shares the history of technological advancement that pre-dates our current revolution. This isn’t to convince us to accept what is happening around us, but as a clear reminder. Technological changes themselves aren’t problematic. We need to pay attention to who is driving it and why. There is a quote that I HAD to note down, and one that I thing we need to remember. “It’s just people, deciding what kind of society we want” So, who are we going to let influence us?
- Make sure we understand our jobs.
What Roose makes clear when it comes to automation is that most of our jobs in totality aren’t predictable enough to be completely automated (however much certain managers/supervisors and “Tech Bros” want to tell us). So, make sure you pay attention to the unexpected, as this can’t be predicted and therefore cannot be fully “lost” to automation.
- Continue to learn from the past.
Every time humanity has experienced a big shift in technology, hanging onto humanity has pushed us through. Roose talks about being “surprising, social and scarce” as part of his 9 rules for humanity. What can we do that others can’t? We are social beings who make people feel things and create. So far, that can’t be replicated; the current AI models are so sycophantic, it’s not a true human experience!
- Don’t be driven by fear!
Whilst there are people driving the “AI for all” through greed or the desire to be the “first”, there are many more being driven by being “left behind”. Make sure whenever you hear that rhetoric, you check on their commercial connection to AI being profitable! So, I like one of the final messages shared by “Futureproof”. That, in the fifth industrial revolution, we fight FOR PEOPLE rather than against technology. This looks like engaging with your community, pushing for regulation, paying attention to (and money for) creativity and not handing over decision-making to others!
So, if you are like me, sceptical about AI, but want to feel like you understand enough to push back, then this is the book for you! It’s lightly written, but highly impactful, and it personally gives me hope for the future.
Have you read Futureproof? What do you think? What should I add to the reading list next?
If you liked this, then feel free to support my reviews by buying me a coffee!
*This is an affiliate link. If you click through and purchase, I may get a tiny commission!
You may also enjoy reading:
Ask Me Anything: How to manage the pro-AI chatter when you are sceptical.
The Phone Fix by Dr Faye Begeti (Book Review)
Ask Me Anything: How can I futureproof myself against AI?
If you are looking to create a career to enjoy, for yourself or your team, then book a call here, and let’s talk (to a real human!)
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
