The next industrial revolution? Talking AI in the workplace

Usually, when people speak about AI and the jobs market, there’s a focus on the jobs that will disappear or the skill sets that won’t exist in 5 years.

We think that’s the wrong take. AI offers an opportunity for a more efficient and productive workforce – one that benefits employers and employees.

For that to happen, employers need to take ownership of the new technology and how workers use it.

That’s why the potential of AI is a main focus of the “Global Workforce of the Future 2023” report from The Adecco Group. Our parent company surveyed 30,000 workers across 23 different countries to better understand their feelings and outlook for the future of work.

So what did they have to say?

Workers are already using AI

70% of workers are currently using generative AI (GenAI), according to our latest survey, and the majority of respondents are using the tools to help them find information.

This can leave employers exposed to serious risk, as only 46% of employees have received guidance on how to use AI at work. Workers can unintentionally share confidential information, utilize bad data, and perpetuate harmful biases.

That’s why many companies, including tech giants like Apple, Samsung, and Amazon, are already restricting its workers from accessing ChatGPT and similar AI tools.

AI can improve workers’ day-to-day

62% of workers believe that AI will have a positive impact on their career – but nearly one-quarter don’t know how it will impact their career.

Now is a critical time for employers to frame GenAI as a way to improve workloads and reduce routine, time-consuming tasks. By failing to communicate the advantages and expectations, managers might foster anxiety about the new technology, and workers will be worried about keeping up or being replaced.

Don’t wait to implement AI tools

Walmart recently made news when it announced the full scope of its plans for AI, including a “My Assistant” tool to quickly read or write document summaries, “Conversational AI” for its customer service teams to implement, and GenAI to improve its logistics and supply chain operations.

Don’t wait to introduce AI tools in your workplace. Slow adoption allows you to keep embracing the newest technology – but on a timeline that allows you to be thoughtful and strategic in its implementation.

Start reskilling your workers

One of the biggest takeaways from our latest research is that access to GenAI is not equal. More than three-quarters of college-educated workers are already using AI, far outpacing those with just a high school degree.

Now is the time to start preparing your workforce for what comes next.

Employers can give all workers access to training that helps level the playing field. Creating these opportunities gives workers the ability to envision a long-term career at your organization.

Rethink your staffing strategies

As you lay out your plans for GenAI implementation, make sure to keep in mind the soft and “horizontal” skills that will allow your workforce to thrive and evolve as new tools and technologies are made available.

According to The Adecco Group’s research findings, the majority of workers still believe that the human touch is more influential than AI at work, with emotional intelligence being the least replaceable soft skill.

Managers should identify what types of skills are needed to make GenAI successful in their organization and focus on creating opportunities that align with the current workforce.

Ready for the AI revolution?

You’re not alone if you’re uncertain how technology will impact your organization. However, recent research has found that GenAI already has the potential to impact almost every job the US.

It’s up to employers to stay ahead.

Whether it’s revamping your staffing strategies or developing strong onboarding and retention plans, Adecco is your partner in creating a successful workforce – for today and tomorrow. Contact us today to find out how. 

If you want to learn from a global team of experts on how their company embraces AI, watch the recent webinar from The Adecco Group.

To learn more about our findings, download “What’s Working? Navigating the AI Revolution and the Shifting Future of Work” through the chatbox to the right.