WX trends: 3 things you need to know about AI in the workplace

Welcome to our workplace experience (WX) trends series, where we look at recent news articles, videos, social media posts and thought leadership pieces on workplace experience. You’ll also hear from our experts on what’s trending.

In this WX trends, we’re exploring artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. First we’re finding out why banning the technology isn’t a good idea. Next, we identify tips for Generation Z as they enter the workforce in the age of AI. Finally, execs are excited for their workforce to use the technology, but have a big hurdle to jump over first.

Banning AI at work won’t … well, work

It’s like sticking your head in the sand and pretending it’s not happening. Banning tools in the workplace, especially generative AI, simply doesn’t work, according to an article in Silicon Republic.

History shows that restrictions on technology use often fail, and generative AI is no exception. While a recent survey by ExtraHop found that 32% of organizations have banned these tools, only 5% of employees actually comply. Instead of banning, IT leaders should embrace generative AI’s benefits, such as increased productivity, and focus on managing its risks, states the article.

Organizations need to establish clear policies for safe AI use, drawing from existing data security frameworks, the article explains. Training is crucial: employees must learn to handle sensitive data responsibly and understand the risks of sharing it with AI tools. Security training should be collaborative and practical, emphasizing intuitive risk assessment.

Investing in the right security tools is also essential. Most organizations already have basic monitoring capabilities through firewalls and proxies, but they should enhance visibility to track data transfers more effectively, states the article.

AI is transforming the workplace, and it’s essential for leaders to integrate it into their strategies, says Thomas Philippart de Foy, Chief Innovation Officer at Appspace. “Rather than relying on bans or slow-moving government regulations, companies should proactively manage AI’s integration, ensuring they harness its potential while safeguarding their data.”

Tips for entering the workplace in the age of AI

Gen Zers are joining a job market that is being rapidly transformed by AI.

According to the 2024 Microsoft Work Trend Index, generative AI usage has doubled in six months, with 75% of global knowledge workers using it. IBM’s study found that 40% of the workforce will need reskilling due to AI, especially entry-level employees.

Despite the demand for STEM roles, many young job seekers are unsure where to start, according to an article in Fast Company. Here’s how they can prepare themselves.

Experts advise adding AI skills to resumes, as 40% of CEOs plan to hire more staff due to AI, and 51% are hiring for new AI roles. Critical thinking and understanding AI’s limitations are still crucial though, the article states, as AI can’t replace soft skills like empathy and collaboration.

Workers entering the job market should use AI like a calculator, not an encyclopedia, emphasizing the need for judgement and knowledge to interpret AI results accurately, the article continues. The nature of entry-level jobs is shifting, requiring more than basic task completion.

Building a network and finding a mentor are essential as the job market changes, the article concludes. As AI evolves, Gen Z must embrace it now to stay competitive and avoid being left behind.

What’s stopping workers from trusting AI?

Business leaders are thrilled about AI’s potential to boost productivity by eliminating busywork, but getting employees on board is a challenge, according to an article in Fortune.

A recent Slack report reveals 96% of executives see integrating AI as urgent, a sharp rise from last year. Christina Janzer, head of Slack Workforce Labs, attributes the urgency to AI’s productivity benefits.

However, a gap exists between executive enthusiasm and employee readiness. Two-thirds of desk workers haven’t used AI at work, citing privacy, data security, and mistrust of AI’s accuracy as major concerns, the article states. Only 7% of workers trust AI outputs, and some tools have exacerbated mistrust by spreading misinformation.

Janzer points to a lack of meaningful AI strategies and training as reasons for worker resistance. She emphasizes that proper training is essential for developing trust in AI.

Workers trained in AI are seven times more likely to trust it, the article concludes. To improve AI adoption, Janzer advises executives to establish clear AI policies, offer training, and build trust that AI won’t replace jobs. “Start with training,” she says, as it’s key to enhancing workforce effectiveness and productivity.

Philippart de Foy agrees. “This is something that we need to get right so that workplaces and their staff feel comfortable using the technology.”