Introduction
As individuals have gained access to generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), fears surrounding these tools and their impact on employment have dissipated. However, the adoption of this technology is primarily driven by personal curiosity and initiative rather than company policy.
AI Usage Among Employees and Companies
According to the study AI and Presence: The New Work Landscape, by PageGroup and WeWork, it’s increasingly common for people to use AI tools; however, 61% do so out of personal initiative, while only 6% use them due to company policy. Although at a low level, 7% of companies discourage their use.
Rapid User Adaptation vs. Company Caution
“What we’re seeing is a faster adaptation by users than companies,” says Javier Torre, Managing Director of PageGroup for Mexico and Central America. “Currently, there aren’t enough companies helping businesses adopt AI tools.”
Torre explains that while companies aren’t afraid of using this technology, they are cautious about its implementation due to the need to define processes, policies, and systems. He believes that the data show a call for quicker company adaptation: “People aren’t afraid and are starting to use it with or without us.”
Changing Perceptions of AI in the Workplace
The perception of AI in the workplace has shifted, with workers no longer viewing these tools as a threat. According to the report, 89% of respondents believe AI can improve efficiency, and 53% anticipate increased productivity.
Only 7% of workers claim AI negatively impacts job stability, while 82% see it as a supportive work tool. This positive outlook is reflected in workers’ emotions towards AI implementation, with 37% expressing curiosity and 28% reporting enthusiasm, while only 15% feel fear or insecurity.
The Role of Companies in AI Adoption
Despite some reservations, 90% of people express interest in learning about AI. Torre emphasizes that even with negative sentiments, there’s a desire to use these tools.
He stresses the importance of swift internal policy adoption and planned implementation in companies, as there are risks without regulation. “Adoption is rapid; it’s crucial to have an internal strategy and clear guidelines,” Torre explains. “Otherwise, in a couple of years, nearly 100% of the population may use AI without proper protection.”
Companies have a significant responsibility to educate and train employees in AI, as people are actively requesting it and this is a substantial positive change, Torre adds.
AI’s Impact on Job Demands
PwC’s report indicates that negative predictions about AI in the workplace haven’t materialized. This technology hasn’t led to job losses or reduced worker incomes, but it has transformed skill demands.
The PageGroup and WeWork study shows that 35% use AI for simple queries, while 42% employ it for technical task aspects. Only 3% access AI systems provided by their employers.
Workers recognize the potential of AI in the workplace, with 45% believing it could automate between 11% and 30% of their workload. AI is viewed as an auxiliary tool for enhancing efficiency in repetitive tasks, keeping human decision-making central.
Realizing the need for upskilling, 90% of people desire AI training to improve their performance.
“Some are using AI exceptionally well and can assist others, while others use it very basicly and incorrectly,” Torre warns. “If we don’t intervene quickly and teach them, it will be too late soon.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How is AI being used in the workplace? Mostly for simple queries (35%) and technical task aspects (42%), with only 3% using AI systems provided by their employers.
- Q: What do employees think about AI in the workplace? They see it as a tool to improve efficiency and productivity, with 90% interested in learning more about AI.
- Q: Why are companies hesitant to adopt AI? Companies want to define processes, policies, and systems before implementing AI, ensuring proper regulation.
- Q: How does AI impact job demands? AI is transforming the required skills rather than causing job losses or income reduction.
