AI is coming – employers are confident, but employees aren't sure
HR decision-makers demonstrate a forward-thinking approach when considering Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace. Nearly half (48%) report that their organisations are fully primed for AI integration, with an additional 31% on the path towards readiness, 11% are already experiencing AI integration, and one in ten said they were unprepared (9%). This confidence is supported by the proactive recruitment strategies over the next 12 months, with a significant focus on AI/Machine Learning engineers (61%), revealing insights into HR leader's technical skill priorities. Other areas, like cybersecurity (60%), data science (59%), business analysis (56%), and software engineering (56%), also remain high on the recruitment agenda. HR leaders report that recruiting technical skills for their organisation will be prioritised until December 2024, reflecting a robust preparation for the AI-driven future.
HR leaders report that 99% of organisations are already addressing potential AI risks
HR leaders are not just focused on the technical skills required to use AI in the workplace. They are also mindful of ethical AI usage. HR leaders report that 99% of organisations are already addressing potential AI risks, with nearly half (48%) providing training on ethical AI use. Other measures include compliance with laws and regulations (46%), external collaborations on AI ethics (44%), and the establishment of AI ethics boards (44%). These steps demonstrate a comprehensive approach to AI integration is being considered in the workplace.
Employee reactions to AI integrations
Employee sentiment towards AI's impact is more varied. While nearly a third (28%) see AI as a positive force for creativity and innovation, a notable portion remains sceptical or uncertain. While a with a quarter (23%) saying that it will be mostly positive, only a small fraction (5%) believe AI will be completely positive, with 21% anticipating a net negative impact and 17% saying that it will have a mostly negative impact. This ambivalence is more pronounced among different age groups; younger adults (18-34) are notably more receptive (39%) compared to their older counterparts (55+), who are less convinced (16%).
Employees' feelings towards AI become more favourable when thinking about how it will help prepare the workforce for the future. Over two-fifths (42%) agree that combining human skills with AI is the way forward, but there's still a considerable amount (16%) in disagreement. The generational divide persists here, with younger employees (60%) much more likely to see AI in a positive light compared to only 26% of older employees.
The enthusiasm for the fusion of human and AI skills varies dramatically across generations, with Gen Z leading the charge at 67%, followed by Millennials (57%). Gen X shows cautious optimism (38%), while Boomers remain more hesitant at 26%. This highlights the need for tailored communication and education strategies to bridge the generational gap and ensure everyone feels equipped to thrive in an AI-powered future where human and AI skills work jointly.
The readiness for AI integration painted by HR decision-makers contrasts with the more nuanced perspectives of employees, highlighting a need for more targeted communication and engagement strategies. As organisations gear up for an AI-powered future, it's crucial for HR leaders to not only focus on technical and ethical preparations but also to address the concerns and expectations of their workforce. This could involve more inclusive and comprehensive training programmes, open dialogues about AI's impact, and efforts to debunk AI for all employees, regardless of age or background.
