According to 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, the number of people using artificial intelligence (Al) has nearly doubled in last six months and around 75 per cent global knowledge workers are using AI at workplaces.
The report highlighted the increasing reliance on personal AI tools by employees, who are grappling with the overwhelming pace and volume of work. However, while leaders recognise the importance of Al for business, many felt their organisations lack a clear strategy to effectively leverage AI to drive bottom-line results. The pressure to demonstrate immediate return on investment has also caused some leaders to hesitate, despite the inevitability of Al integration.
The report also highlighted that 90 per cent AI users were able to save time, 85 per cent were able to focus on their most crucial tasks, 84 per cent AI users felt more creative, and 83 percent enjoyed their work more after using the AI.
In terms of company leaders, around 79 per cent agreed that AI adoption is necessary for competitiveness, 59 per cent expressed concerns about quantifying its productivity gains.
As per the report, Al users are no longer limited to younger generations or technology (tech) enthusiasts, with employees across all age groups embracing AI tools. The survey of the workforce in knowledge- based work indicated that Gen Z (age group 18-28) leads with 85 per cent usage, followed by millennials (age group 29-43) at 78 per cent, and Gen X (age group 44-57) at 76 per cent. The survey showed that even older people have adopted AI and using the tool according to their requirements.
Despite concerns about Al and job displacement, the report offered a nuanced perspective. While 45 per cent employees worry about Al replacing their jobs, an almost equal share (46 per cent) are considering quitting jobs as they are getting better opportunities.
In addition, LinkedIn studies in United States of America (USA) indicated a 14 per cent increase in job applications per role since last fall, with 85 per cent professionals contemplating a job change this year.
Employers and company leaders are also increasingly recognising the importance of Al skills, with 66 per cent stating that they would not hire someone lacking these skills.
Further, 71 per cent express a preference for hiring less experienced candidates with Al skills over more experienced ones without them. Additionally, 77 per cent believe that AI will enable early-career talent to take on greater responsibilities.
Furthermore, AI is helping people be more creative and productive, and giving job seekers an edge. Over time, it will change every aspect of work, and companies that face the challenge head-on will surge ahead.
