5 AI Trends Affecting Businesses and Employees

The pace of technological advancement is accelerating. This is not news to anyone wading through the ChatGPT craze. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this revolution. We are swiftly seeing companies adopt AI solutions. Even more rapidly, software providers like Microsoft are adding AI tools.

The goal is to use AI to do things like:

• Streamline operations
• Automate tasks
• Reduce errors
• Boost business output

The 2024 Work Trend Index is a joint report by Microsoft and LinkedIn. It provides valuable insights into the current state of AI in the workplace. The study sheds light on how AI is transforming the way we work. It provides both fresh ideas and considerations when using AI. Here are the main trends identified in the report and how they can impact your operations.

1. Employees Want and Expect AI at Work

Is your company lagging behind in AI adoption? You may find it harder to attract and keep top talent. The study shows that 75% of knowledge workers now use AI at work. Employees understand that AI helps them do certain things faster.

One concern is a lack of rapid adoption by companies, which need to have a plan. AI is like any other new technology. It can help, but only if you do it right. The best way to move forward is a partnership with employees. Learn how they feel AI can help them most. Their input gives you a great starting point for where to leverage AI effectively.

2. AI Skills are Becoming More in Demand

There are now new positions we never heard of just three years ago. Prompt engineering is one of these. Employees who know how to use AI to get the best output are most in demand.

The study also found that job loss fears haven’t yet been realized. Instead, companies are seeking AI-skilled staff. Fifty-five percent of leaders worry about having enough talent to fill needs.

The need for AI skills means employers should add AI training to upskill teams. Employees can take the initiative to improve their use of AI and prompts. It’s in everyone’s best interest to learn how to harness AI productively.

3. The Evolving Role of Employees Using AI

The report also reveals a notable divide in employee use of AI. The spectrum begins with skeptics who rarely use AI. On the other end are power users, who use AI frequently in their work and save more than 30 minutes per day by reengineering their workflow using artificial intelligence.

Some of the ways that AI can augment roles and assist with tasks include:

• AI-driven automation
• Data analysis and reporting
• Customer support enhancement
• Document and policy drafting

Companies can benefit from their AI power users. These employees can help train others on their team and create foundational processes and templates that other employees can follow to enhance their work.

4. Things Can Get Messy Fast without a Plan

Companies are under immense pressure to show ROI. Many haven’t yet figured out how to do that with AI enhancements, and they’re also worried about being too slow to adopt.

One issue this has led to is employees using AI on their own through un-sanctioned AI tools, possibly using AI where the company would rather have a human touch. This emphasizes the need for businesses to have an AI use policy and fast.

Without a use policy, it’s the “Wild West.” If you have an IT provider, ask them for guidance on AI policies and best practices you can implement in your organization.

5. The Ethical Considerations and Trust in AI

As AI becomes more prevalent, it’s essential to address ethical considerations. The Work Trend Index emphasizes three important things in this area: transparency, privacy, and bias mitigation in AI systems.

Businesses must ensure that AI tools are deployed ethically and responsibly. This means clearly communicating with employees and customers about how AI is being used. Building trust in AI is crucial for its successful integration into the workplace.

Final Thoughts on AI in the Workplace

The 2024 Work Trend Index offers valuable insights. It helps companies understand the transformative power of AI in the workplace. It’s important to understand these key trends and embrace AI strategically. Doing this enables businesses to unlock new opportunities, enhance productivity, and improve employee satisfaction.

We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of AI and leverage its potential to drive your business forward. Contact Yeo & Yeo Technology today to discuss how we can support your AI journey.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.