Many employees are reluctantly starting to accept AI in the office
As employees continue to face increasing pressures around productivity, many are beginning to embrace artificial intelligence as a means to improve efficiency, new research shows.
A PwC survey found that almost three in five (57%) UK workers now believe generative AI tools could improve their efficiency, a significant increase from one in five (19%) in the report from last year.
The huge increase in interest in AI may be linked to changing landscapes: almost two-thirds (60%) have experienced more changes at work in the past year compared to previous years, with 41% noticing an increased workload.
Employees are starting to accept AI at work
PwC’s research included 56,600 employees in 50 countries, including 2,000 from Britain. Nearly half (45%) of employees surveyed said they felt overwhelmed by the pace of change, while a similar number (40%) did not understand why these changes were so dramatic. necessary.
In an effort to keep pace with workplace evolution, three in four say they are willing to adapt, and two in three (65%) are excited about new opportunities.
“Employees tell us they are motivated and ready to adapt to AI and other changes, but they are also overwhelmed by non-stop disruption,” said Sarah Moore, head of human resources at PwC UK.
“Even positive changes can be stressful if they come from all sides. With a clear strategy, employers can help by equipping their workforce with the knowledge and skills to adapt.”
In its report, PwC calls generative AI a “positive disruptor,” citing its ability to improve efficiency and help employees manage their workload.
However, on a global level, Britain lags behind. Only 47% have used GenAI at work in the past year, compared to 61% overall. Even fewer people use it daily or weekly (18%) compared to worldwide (28%).
PwC UK Workforce Transformation Partner Alastair Woods added: “Employers need to engage employees in the coming transformation and identify the new skills needed in key parts of the workforce.”
Looking ahead, the company is emphasizing both sides: employees must “trust their leaders to guide them through critical changes,” while employers must support employees by providing them with relevant upskilling opportunities.