Most Enjoyed Work More with AI, Microsoft Linkedin Report
Artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant impact in the workplace, with a staggering 75% of global knowledge workers now utilising generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot, according to the 2024 Work Trend Index report released jointly by Microsoft and LinkedIn. This groundbreaking shift has occurred in just the past year, with AI adoption nearly doubling in the last six months alone.
Employees are turning to AI technologies to enhance productivity and alleviate work overload, with 90% stating that AI helps them save time, 84% attributing it to improved creativity and 83% states that they enjoyed their work more with AI. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasised the significance of this moment, stating, "We've arrived at a pivotal moment for AI at work. Just as we look back at the pre-PC era, we'll one day wonder how work got done without AI." The report, based on a survey of over 31,000 workers across 31 countries, reveals that AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses to remain competitive. In fact, 79% of leaders agree that their companies must adopt AI technologies to stay ahead.
However, despite recognising the importance of AI, many leaders are grappling with developing effective strategies for its implementation. The report highlights that 60% of leaders express concerns about their organisations lacking a clear vision for integrating AI technologies. This challenge underscores the need for companies to adapt and embrace AI to remain relevant in the evolving landscape.
The rise of "AI power users" in the workplace signals significant changes in job roles and career trajectories. These individuals extensively utilise generative AI tools and report increased motivation, creativity, and work-life balance. Surprisingly, power users are 66% more likely to be involved in redesigning business processes with AI compared to non-power users.
As AI skills become a crucial hiring priority, with 66% of leaders stating that they would not hire someone without AI abilities, the labor market is poised for disruption. The report reveals that two-thirds of the fastest-growing jobs today did not exist two decades ago. Professionals are rapidly upskilling, with a remarkable 160% surge in non-technical workers enrolling in LinkedIn Learning courses on AI basics over the past six months.
However, the report also highlights potential risks and concerns. 52% of people who use AI at work are unwilling to admit to using it for their most important tasks, and 53% fear that using it makes them look replaceable. Concerns have also been raised about employees using unauthorised AI tools, with 78% admitting to bringing such tools into the workplace and jeopardising corporate data security.
As generative AI becomes increasingly prevalent in the workplace by 2024, the researchers stress the urgency for leaders to develop ethical AI policies, redefine job roles to incorporate AI technologies, and provide comprehensive AI training to retain talent and maintain a competitive edge.
75% of global knowledge workers now use generative AI tools in the workplace.
AI helps save time and improves creativity, according to 90% and 84% of workers, respectively.
79% of leaders believe their companies must adopt AI to stay competitive.
AI skills are becoming a hiring priority, with 66% of leaders requiring AI abilities.