A recent joint report from LinkedIn and Microsoft has shed light on the widespread use of AI in the workplace, with employees discreetly utilizing AI tools while employers seek out candidates with AI skills. The survey, which gathered responses from 31,000 people across 31 countries, highlighted the contradictory state of AI at work.
According to the report, company leaders are increasingly favoring job candidates with AI skills, even non-technical talent that can utilize generative AI like ChatGPT. In fact, 66% of leaders stated that they would not hire someone without AI skills, and 71% said they would likely hire a less experienced candidate with AI skills over a more experienced one without them.
Despite the demand for AI knowledge, the report revealed that fewer employers have provided AI training (39%) or invested in AI tools (45%) for their employees. However, a significant number of employees have taken matters into their own hands, with three in four knowledge workers using AI tools to boost productivity at work.
Interestingly, the trend of employees using AI tools without official approval extends across generations, with both boomers and Gen Z employees embracing this approach. However, concerns about AI replacing jobs persist, with 45% of employees expressing worry about the impact of AI on their roles.
The report also highlighted the growing workload and burnout experienced by employees, with 68% finding it challenging to keep up with their tasks and 46% reporting feelings of burnout. Despite these challenges, employees are turning to AI for relief, indicating a shift towards leveraging technology to manage work demands.
Overall, the report underscores the need for employers to recognize and support the use of AI tools in the workplace, as well as the importance of addressing employee concerns and workload issues to maximize the potential benefits of AI technology.