In the face of increasing workloads and burnout, workers are turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help manage their tasks. According to a new study by Microsoft and LinkedIn, AI usage in the workplace is at an all-time high, with 75% of workers using AI in their jobs. However, this surge in AI adoption is accompanied by a significant concern: the fear of being replaced by AI.
The study, which surveyed 31,000 people across 31 countries, found that over half of the respondents were hesitant to admit they were using AI for their most important tasks. This reluctance stems from the fear that using AI could make them appear replaceable. Nearly half of the professionals surveyed expressed concern that AI would take over their jobs, leading them to consider leaving their current positions within the next year.
Despite these fears, the demand for AI skills in the job market is skyrocketing. The study revealed that hiring for technical AI talent has increased by 323% over the last eight years. Furthermore, 66% of leaders stated they wouldn’t hire someone without AI skills, and 71% would prefer to hire a less experienced worker with AI skills over a more experienced worker without them.
However, while workers are quick to adopt AI, companies seem to be lagging behind. Nearly half of U.S. executives are not currently investing in AI tools or products for their employees, and just over a quarter of companies are planning to offer training on generative AI this year. Only 39% of people globally, who are using AI at work, have received AI training from their employers.
Read more: www.wired.com