During the HP Amplify Partner Conference, HP presented new results from its Industrial Relations Index, a comprehensive study exploring employee relationships with work around the world. The study that surveyed more than 15,600 participants in 12 countries reveals that, while the world’s relationship with work is strained and employee expectations are rising, artificial intelligence (AI) is considered key to promote better relationships with work.
“AI represents a significant opportunity to transform our work dynamics and foster a more positive and productive environment for all”, said Dave Shull, president of Workforce Solutions, HP Inc. “In order to promote greater understanding and acceptance of AI, as well as to ensure that employees know how to reap its benefits, business leaders must take the lead in educating employees about the potential of AI and spearheading its effective integration”.
The world’s relationship with work is strained: AI can help
In today’s global workforce, there is a remarkable strain on people’s relationship with work; only 27% of office workers report a healthy working relationship. At the same time, the expectations of office workers about their relationship with work are growing; 58% globally report that their expectations have increased in the last three years. This figure is particularly high in growing economies at 71%, compared to 50% of workers in mature economies.
The workforce understands well the potential of AI to promote healthier relationships with work, and in this, IT business leaders and decision makers lead the way. 54% of office workers, as well as 72% of business leaders and 70% of IT decision makers value the role AI can play in improving work-life balance. Similarly, employees believe that AI can optimize tasks and facilitate their work (business leaders: 75%; office workers knowledge: 58%). In growing economies, in particular, 76% of office workers think that AI will facilitate their work and 75% believe it will “make it more interesting” (compared to 48% and 44% respectively in mature economies).
Business leaders must guide AI integration
The gap between business leaders, IT decision makers and office workers highlight the need for business leaders to effectively communicate the benefits of AI and educate employees on how to integrate it into their work processes, in order to help drive better business outcomes while strengthening people’s relationships with work. The survey showed that uncertainty remains as to how best to use and make the most of AI:
- Nearly 2 in 5 (42%) individuals feel insecure about when to use AI in the workplace.
- 41% do not feel ready to harness the full potential of AI in their job role.
With 73% of business leaders and 66% of office workers advocating for adequate AI training, there is a clear call for organizations to prioritize skills improvement initiatives to empower their workforce in adopting AI technologies.
“In a changing work environment, where companies strive for greater engagement, retention and productivity, and keep their employees inspired, AI strategic integration emerges as a powerful force for transformation”, said Stella Low, director of communications at HP Inc. “Office workers around the world are looking for top managers to show them how to effectively navigate the AI field: the stage is set for business leaders to seize the opportunity to empower their employees and drive success”.
