Recent research finds nearly three in ten UK workers utilize AI in their jobs, yet a significant portion lacks confidence.
- A global research agency reveals 23% of workers feel unsure about using AI technology effectively.
- Despite AI’s mandate in some workplaces, insufficient training remains a concern for 31% of employees.
- AI usage brings mixed feelings, with many employees feeling ethically uneasy or pessimistic about their roles’ future.
- Trust varies across professions, with personal trainers seen as the most trustworthy and pilots as the least.
Recent research indicates that nearly 30% of employees in the UK are integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their daily work. However, 23% of these individuals admit to lacking confidence when it comes to effectively utilizing this technology. This statistic underscores a significant gap in comfort and proficiency in using AI tools, which is further exacerbated by the fact that 31% of workers have not received adequate training on AI, despite its growing prevalence and, in some cases, being a mandated aspect of their job.
The moral and ethical implications of AI usage are causing mixed reactions among employees. Almost half of the workforce using AI report feelings of moral or ethical discomfort, while over half perceive themselves as lazy when relying on AI systems. Additionally, 49% of employees express concerns about AI fueling pessimism regarding the future of their roles, pointing to a need for a broader discussion about AI’s impact on job security and work ethics.
The benefits of AI in enhancing work quality and efficiency are notable, yet clouded by diverse opinions. While 59% of users acknowledge improvements in work quality, 63% have observed a reduction in mistakes, and 62% state increased efficiency due to AI, the technology’s adoption is accompanied by a distinct lack of trust among many workers, particularly in sensitive professions.
Public trust in AI varies significantly across different job sectors. Opinium’s research highlights a disparity in trust levels, with personal trainers deemed the most trustworthy (27%) when involving AI, whereas roles such as pilots sit at the bottom of the trust spectrum, with 54% of the public expressing distrust. This variance illustrates the complex relationship between technology integration and societal perception.
Matt Howlett, a Senior Research Executive at Opinium, articulates that the growing use of AI across numerous industries reveals a clear divide between current user comfort levels and the potential future advancements of AI technology. He suggests that employers may find value in offering more comprehensive training to ensure employees are well-versed in AI tools and their applications.
As AI continues to revolutionize workplaces, addressing confidence and trust concerns through better training could enhance its acceptance and effectiveness.
