As workers continue to face mounting pressures surrounding productivity, many are starting to embrace artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, new research has claimed.
A PwC survey revealed nearly three in five (57%) UK employees now believe generative AI tools could improve their efficiency, marking a significant uplift from one in five (19%) in last year’s report.
The huge uptick in AI interest could be related to shifting landscapes. Nearly two-thirds (60%) of employees experienced more change at work in the past year compared with previous years, with 41% noting increased workloads.
Here’s people’s reaction to the pressure of adopting AI in the workplace.
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This rapid pace of change is leaving many workers feeling overwhelmed; nearly half (45%) of the surveyed workers noted feeling overwhelmed by the pace of change, and a similar number (40%) failed to understand why these changes were necessary.
PwC’s survey, which covered 56,600 workers in 50 countries, including 2,000 from the UK, highlighted a big shift in attitudes towards AI. In a bid to keep up with workplace evolution, three in four workers said they’re prepared to adapt, and two (65%) expressed excitement about new opportunities.
“Workers are telling us they’re motivated and ready to adapt to AI and other changes, but they’re also overwhelmed by nonstop disruption,” noted PwC UK Head of Workforce Sarah Moore. “Even positive change can be stressful when it’s coming from all angles. With a clear strategy, employers can help by equipping their workforce with the knowledge and skills to adapt.”
In its report, PwC refers to generative AI as a “positive disruptor,” citing its ability to improve efficiency and help workers manage their workload. Despite the enthusiasm, the survey revealed that the UK lags behind in AI adoption on a global scale.
Only 47% of UK employees have used generative AI at work in the past year, compared with 61% overall. Even fewer use it daily or weekly (18%) compared with the global figure of 28%.
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PwC UK Workforce Transformation Partner Alastair Woods emphasized the importance of engagement and upskilling in the face of these changes.
“Employers must engage employees in the transformation ahead and map out the new skills needed in key parts of the workforce,” he stated.
Looking ahead, the company places emphasis on both sides – workers need to “trust their leaders to guide them through critical change,” while employers must support workers by equipping them with relevant upskilling opportunities.
The findings underscore a broader trend of increasing AI integration into daily work routines and highlight the need for both strategic leadership and robust support systems to manage this transition.
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With a clear strategy and commitment to upskilling, the potential of AI to enhance productivity and efficiency in the workplace can be fully realized, benefiting both employees and employers in the long run.
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