AI invasion: What this means for Employers.
August 11th, 2023
In a modern, evolving work environment it can be hard to maintain pace with what new software is currently ‘cutting edge’. One of these driving forces, you would find nearly impossible to have avoided hearing about up until now is the so-called ‘AI Invasion’. Apart from being the current ‘hot topic’ it would be hard to not recognise that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will impact you and your business, in a big way.
Integration of artificial intelligence has rapidly become a driving force behind operational efficiency and innovation. AI technologies fundamentally transform the way businesses operate. Allowing employers to streamline processes, make data-driven decisions, and enhance employee experiences. As the digital workforce evolves alongside hybrid working, it is crucial for employers to understand the implications of AI. Let alone harness its potential to stay competitive in a modern market.
While AI integration can, will and probably has already happened in your business. It can be a worrisome undertaking. On one hand, the ethics of AI are still up for discussion. People have mixed views on how it collects information or ‘learns’. Employers must ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and in compliance with data privacy regulations. On top of this, the idea of AI can lead to diminishing mental stability due to uncertainty about what this means for both employees and their career prospects. Take this article from the BBC for instance.
‘AI could replace the equivalent of 300 million jobs.’
For many, this is a very real worry with AI entering the work environment. Transparent communication about AI adoption and its impact on employees is essential to build trust and mitigate any apprehensions within the workforce. This also falls on employers to proactively address these workforce changes. This can be done through upskilling, reskilling, and redeployment. Allowing smoother transitions. This is where your HR team will become imperative with tasks such as making role adaptions as smooth as possible for your workforce.
On a positive note, embracing AI can lead to a more agile and adaptable workforce. Employees can be freed from routine tasks and encouraged to engage in more creative, strategic, and value-added activities. Employers can focus on nurturing a culture of innovation, fostering collaboration, and driving employee development, which ultimately contributes to business growth and competitiveness. Alongside this utilising AI-driven tools (I.e., Chatbots, virtual assistants, Note-taking software, etc.) and processes means a reduction in time spent on tasks, allowing the individual to achieve more in the working day. Not only benefiting the business’ deliverables but also creating a strong sense of achievement and helping with stress by reducing workload.
It is important to remember and reinforce that while AI tools can now be used by all, they cannot replace the employee. Instead, they should be treated as what they essentially are. A tool. A tool that can help adapt and develop an efficient experience. Careful consideration of workforce implications and ethical concerns is crucial to ensuring a successful organisation and successful employees. As we navigate this AI-driven era, employers who balance technological advancement and human-centric values will be better positioned to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.
