The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI) tools in companies has experienced a significant increase in recent months, as organizations increasingly trust the benefits they offer. However, there is also a growing sense of anxiety among workers, with 42 percent believing that their jobs may disappear in the next decade due to this technology. These findings are from a global survey conducted by Boston Consulting Group, which aimed to understand the impact of AI on organizations and the attitudes of workers towards it.
The results of the study ‘AI at Work: Friend and Foe’ were presented, following last year’s ‘AI at Work: What People Are Saying’ survey, which identified Spain as one of the countries most optimistic about adopting AI tools. The presentation highlighted a shift in perspective, with 46 percent of respondents now optimistic about AI implementation compared to 52 percent the previous year.
Organizations’ trust in AI-powered tools has grown significantly, with 42 percent now expressing confidence in these technologies compared to 26 percent the previous year. Despite this growth in trust, there is also an increase in anxiety surrounding the integration of AI into operations, with 17 percent of respondents feeling anxious about it. It is notable that workers in the global South are more likely to embrace generative AI tools and dedicate more time to improving their work quality.
Workers who regularly use generative AI tools tend to fear losing their jobs, with 49 percent believing that their job may disappear compared to 24 percent of non-users. Training plays a crucial role in maximizing the potential of AI in organizations. Challenges related to the lack of time for learning, ineffective training, and uncertainty about when to use these tools have been identified as hindering progress.
BCG emphasized that organizations must adapt their structures to accommodate AI technology and provide appropriate training to employees if they are to ensure both employee satisfaction and business efficiency. Developing necessary skills will allow organizations to harness these tools effectively and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.
In conclusion, while there are concerns about job loss due to AI adoption, there is also an increasing recognition that these technologies can bring significant benefits if implemented correctly. Organizations must prioritize training programs and support for employees transitioning into this new era while embracing its potential for growth and innovation.
