The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in UK workplaces is on the rise, with almost 30% of workers currently using this technology. However, this trend reveals a confidence gap, as nearly a quarter of these users express discomfort in utilising AI effectively.
- New research indicates that despite the rising use of AI in workplaces, a significant portion of UK workers lack confidence in using it.
- A notable percentage of employers are mandating AI usage without offering adequate training, leaving many employees unprepared.
- There is a mixed perception regarding the ethical implications and impact of AI on job roles, reflecting concerns over its future use.
- Public trust in AI varies significantly across different job roles, influencing how AI is perceived in various professional sectors.
The integration of Artificial Intelligence into work environments is becoming increasingly common, with 29% of UK employees reporting its usage in their professional tasks. Despite this widespread adoption, a troubling 23% of these users admit to feeling uncertain about their abilities to use AI efficiently. This confidence issue poses a challenge, as 31% of employees state they have not received any formal training.
Furthermore, certain employers have made AI use compulsory, contributing to a pervasive unease among workers who are not adequately prepared. This mandatory implementation underscores the need for comprehensive training programmes to ensure workers can leverage AI tools effectively.
The ethical and psychological impacts of AI usage are varied among employees. Nearly half report feelings of moral or ethical discomfort, while 53% associate AI use with a sense of laziness. Moreover, 49% express pessimism about their job’s future due to AI advancements. Despite these concerns, a significant majority acknowledge the benefits AI has brought to their work quality and efficiency.
AI’s trustworthiness is under scrutiny in various job sectors, with notable distrust in roles such as pilots and doctors. Public sentiment shows a stark contrast in trust levels across professions, affecting how AI is incorporated into these fields. While personal trainers are the most trusted to utilise AI, roles such as pilots and lawyers are met with scepticism.
Matt Howlett from Opinium highlights the evolving role of AI, emphasising the gap in confidence and understanding among workers. His remarks suggest a pressing need for employers to offer training that addresses technological advancements, ensuring employees are equipped to handle AI effectively.
Employers must bridge the training gap to bolster confidence and competence in AI use among employees.
