UNISON’s Careers Forum recognises the growing presence of AI technology in career guidance services and wishes to outline our position on its appropriate use in the profession.
AI can enhance our work. We acknowledge AI’s potential to streamline administrative tasks, provide research support, and assist with content creation. These tools can help career advisors access information more efficiently, prepare guidance materials, and reduce time spent on routine administrative duties, allowing more focus on direct client support.
However, AI cannot replace career advisors. Career guidance is fundamentally about human connection, empathy, and understanding individual circumstances. AI lacks the emotional intelligence, local knowledge, and professional judgment essential for effective career support. The complex, personal nature of career decision-making requires human insight, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust that technology cannot replicate.
Career advisors bring irreplaceable skills including active listening, motivational interviewing, understanding of local employment landscapes, and the ability to adapt guidance to individual needs and circumstances.
We therefore call for:
- Comprehensive training before AI implementation
- Meaningful consultation with staff and unions on technology decisions
- Clear boundaries ensuring AI supplements rather than substitutes professional expertise
- Protection of employment and professional standards
AI should serve career advisors and their clients, enhancing rather than replacing the essential human element of quality career guidance.