According to a new IBM research, 40% of global employees will need to relearn skills in the next three years to adapt to the rapid development of artificial intelligence and automation technologies. This trend heralds a profound change in the workplace, especially among the junior employee groups, who will face the greatest challenges. Research shows that 77% of executives believe that generative AI will have a significant impact on how junior employees work.
Yet, despite the rise of AI, the top executives are generally optimistic. They believe that employees are more likely to be enhanced by AI than completely replaced. This view emphasizes the role of AI as an aid tool that will help employees become more productive, rather than completely replacing their work.
The study also pointed out that there are significant differences in the degree of impact of artificial intelligence on different functional departments. For example, employees in technology departments and data analytics positions may adapt to the application of artificial intelligence more quickly, while jobs that require highly interpersonal interactions may face greater challenges. This difference shows that companies need to formulate differentiated training and development plans based on the characteristics of each department.
In addition, employees' expectations for work are also changing. More and more employees want to do influential jobs, not just to complete daily tasks. The introduction of artificial intelligence provides employees with more opportunities to focus on more creative and strategic work, thereby enhancing the sense of meaning and accomplishment of the work.
Overall, IBM's research reveals the profound impact of artificial intelligence and automation technologies on the workplace. Companies need to actively respond to this trend and help employees adapt to the new work environment through skills training and career development planning. At the same time, employees should also take the initiative to embrace change and improve their skills to maintain competitiveness in the era of artificial intelligence.