New research commissioned by recruiter Randstad UK reveals that three in every five workers advocate for a government ban on artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The poll of 1,147 employees sheds light on their concerns about job displacement and the potential impact of AI on the workforce. Despite the fears, the adoption of AI tools for work-related tasks is already prevalent among some workers, highlighting the complex relationship between apprehension and embracing this transformative technology.
The paradox of AI in the workplace and workers’ fears
In the survey, 60% of workers expressed support for a government decision to ban AI tools in workplaces, reflecting their apprehension about AI’s role in their professional lives. Victoria Short, Chief Executive of Randstad UK, highlighted that concerns about AI disrupting traditional work processes and replacing jobs are well-founded, citing examples such as Italy’s attempt to ban ChatGPT and strikes in Hollywood over screenwriters’ fear of AI-generated jokes. The fear of job displacement was evident, with 46% of workers expressing worry about AI replacing their roles. Additionally, more than a quarter (26%) were very worried, and 20% were somewhat worried about the potential impact of AI on their employment prospects.
Despite their fears, a notable portion of workers were already using or considering the use of AI tools for work-related tasks. The survey revealed that 37% of workers would not use AI tools, while 27% would consider using them. Interestingly, 40% of respondents reported that they were already utilizing AI tools for their work tasks. This apparent dissonance between workers’ concerns about AI and their adoption of the technology on their own terms indicates the complexity of emotions surrounding AI’s integration into the workplace.
The AI industry’s growing impact and the need for upskilling
The survey also sheds light on the increasing impact of AI on the job market. The AI sector in the UK, which currently has over 50,000 employees, made £3.7 billion in economic contributions in 2017. The Future of Jobs Report by the World Economic Forum predicts that while 23% of jobs are expected to change by 2027, 69 million new jobs will be created and 83 million eliminated. As the technological revolution disrupts the labor market and demands new skills, 44% of workers will experience skill disruption in the next five years, highlighting the urgency for upskilling and reskilling initiatives.
Victoria Short emphasized the significance of addressing workers’ fears and offering development opportunities in technology to retain good talent. She stressed the importance of digital training and reskilling, as 89% of workers are interested in learning and development opportunities. Despite the waves of labor market disruption brought by technological revolutions, there are opportunities for growth and advancement, making it crucial for employers to support their workforce in adapting to the changing landscape of work.
The research underscores the growing concern among workers about AI’s potential impact on job displacement and the need for companies to address these fears. As AI continues to shape the workplace, businesses must prioritize digital training and upskilling initiatives to empower their employees to thrive in the new environment. The delicate balance between apprehension and adoption of AI tools highlights the need for effective strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of work in the era of artificial intelligence.
