automation ai-history workforce-impact ai-trends

The Case of the Disappearing Secretary

rowlandmanthorpe.substack.com

March 7, 2026

18 min read

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44/100

Summary

The mass automation driven by artificial intelligence is expected to have significant impacts on employment, similar to past waves of automation. Historical trends indicate that the disappearance of certain job roles, like secretarial positions, can occur as technology advances.

Key Takeaways

In 1984, clerical and secretarial workers comprised approximately 18% of the U.S. workforce, reflecting the significant role of administrative support in organizations at that time.
The automation of tasks previously performed by secretaries has drastically reduced their numbers, with many clerical jobs disappearing due to technological advancements.
The historical context of automation reveals that the transition to AI may be complex and multifaceted, rather than a straightforward replacement of white-collar jobs.
The role of secretaries was essential in managing information flow within organizations, acting as the critical interface between management and administrative processes.

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Community Sentiment

Mixed

Positives

The shift from secretarial roles to technical fields, as seen in personal stories, highlights the adaptability of individuals in response to changing job landscapes, which is crucial for future workforce resilience.

Concerns

The sentiment that computerization has merely homogenized work standards suggests a lack of innovation in job quality, raising concerns about the long-term impact of AI on workplace engagement and creativity.
The observation that many managers relied on secretaries for basic tasks indicates a potential over-reliance on human support, which may hinder the effective integration of AI tools in business processes.