By George Waggott, founder, and Roberto Fonseca-Velazquez, summer law student,
George Waggott Law
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been heralded as a game-changer in the modern workplace, promising to streamline tasks and boost productivity. However, a new study suggests that instead of simplifying jobs, AI might actually be creating more work for employees and exacerbating their stress levels.
According to a recent report from Upwork, a freelancing platform, a significant disconnect exists between the expectations of executives and the reality faced by most workers. While the majority of C-suite leaders claim that they are confident that AI will enhance overall productivity, a staggering 77% of employees report that these tools have only added to their workload.
One key issue is the adaptation period required for AI tools. Approximately 23% of employees find themselves spending additional time learning how to effectively use these technologies, without a corresponding reduction in their “normal work”. But the challenges don't end there. Nearly 39% of workers say that they are now dedicating more time to reviewing and moderating AI-generated content, and 21% report that they are handling increased responsibilities directly resulting from the implementation of AI systems.
This growing workload is accompanied by heightened efficiency expectations in many organizations. The Upwork report reveals that 47% of employees are unsure how to meet their employers' productivity targets amidst the integration of AI, and 40% reportedly feel that their companies' demands are excessive.
The pressure associated with the roll out of AI tools is taking a toll on employee well-being. About 71% of full-time workers say that they are experiencing burnout, and 65% are reportedly struggling to meet productivity expectations. Consequently, one in three employees say that they are contemplating leaving their jobs within the next six months due to increased workloads and exhaustion.
The disconnect between the anticipated benefits of AI and the actual impact on employees is evident. Kelly Monahan, managing director of The Upwork Research Institute, says that “introducing new technologies into outdated work models and systems is failing to unlock the full expected productivity value of AI.” This observation highlights a crucial issue: the integration of AI is not just about implementing new tools but also about adapting work models to fully leverage these advancements.
Executives are not entirely unaware of the strain on their workforce. The recent Upwork study found that 81% of global C-suite leaders recognize that they have imposed increased demands on employees over the past year. Monahan argues that to truly benefit from AI-driven productivity, organizations must fundamentally rethink their approach to talent management and work assignments. “While it’s certainly possible for AI to simultaneously boost productivity and improve employee well-being, this outcome will require a fundamental shift in how we organize talent and work,” Monahan says.
Drawing lessons from previous technological integration failures, such as IBM’s HR chatbot debacle, Monahan emphasizes the need for a thoughtful approach. Leaders should focus on developing AI skills among their teams and ensure that the technology is introduced gradually. This includes creating an AI-enhanced work model that involves developing productivity measures incrementally and collaboratively, with employees and adopting a skills-based approach to hiring and development.
In summary, while AI holds significant promise for improving workplace efficiency, its benefits can only be realized through strategic implementation and a supportive approach to workforce adaptation. By aligning AI integration with thoughtful work adjustments and employee support, organizations will be best placed to benefit from the true potential of these technologies without increasing workplace stress and dissatisfaction.
For more information about George Waggott Law, please see: www.georgewaggott.com, or contact: george@georgewaggott.com
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