UK business leaders must do more to emphasize the potential benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) for employees, according to new research from HP.
what's new from hp Labor relations indexwhich surveyed more than 15,000 respondents in 12 countries, found that only a quarter of UK office workers have a healthy relationship with work, with many becoming increasingly deflated in their roles.
Parallel to this is the fact that many are deeply skeptical about the improvements AI could bring to the workplace, despite leaders' efforts to promote the technology.
Only four in ten respondents told HP they believe it will make them more productive, compared to 58% globally.
According to the study, less than half believe that AI will allow them to get rid of repetitive or tedious tasks, while only 46% of British workers believe that technology will make their work more interesting.
By contrast, business leaders in the UK are more optimistic about AI: 69% believe it will make their jobs easier. But while 72% of business leaders believe their employees will have a better work-life balance, only 43% of desk workers believe the same.
HP said the research highlights a growing disparity between senior managers and workers in expectations of technology.
Dave Shull, president of workforce solutions at HP, said leaders should reiterate the potential benefits of AI in terms of the productivity gains it could bring to staff in the long term.
“AI represents a significant opportunity to transform our work dynamics and unlock a more positive and productive environment for everyone,” he said.
“To foster greater understanding and acceptance of AI (and ensure employees know how to take advantage of its benefits), business leaders must take the initiative to educate employees about the potential of AI and spearhead its effective integration.”
Education on the topic of AI, HP said, will be a critical focus for many companies in the future. Currently, there are preconceived notions about its potential impact on the workforce and many workers already lack adequate knowledge about the technology.
Four in ten said they are unsure when to use AI in the workplace, and both business leaders and employees want to see more training: 72% and 64% respectively.
“In an evolving workplace landscape where companies strive to achieve greater engagement, retention and productivity, as well as keep their employees inspired, the strategic integration of AI is emerging as a powerful force for transformation,” said Stella Low, director of CV communications.
“Knowledge workers around the world are looking to senior managers to show them how to effectively navigate the AI landscape – the stage is set for business leaders to seize the opportunity to empower their employees and drive success.” “.
The findings echo another recent survey from social enterprise Code First Girls, which found that British workers are skeptical about the effects of using AI at work.
While more than eight in ten British workers use ChatGPT in their workplace, around a quarter are concerned that the use of AI will drive women out of the workplace.
