AI in the Workplace - Microsoft Report

Recently I have read 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report from Microsoft and LinkedIn, The most critical aspect highlighted in the report for HR is AI proficiency becoming a core competency and hiring necessity, which has significant implications for the future of the workforce and talent management.

By the report we understand that knowledge workers strongly want AI in the Workplace.

75% of knowledge workers use AI at work today

What they shared is;
AI helps them save time (90%)
focus on their most important work (85%)
be more creative (84%)
and enjoy their work more (83%)

Key Findings:

I would like to share the key findings of the report:

AI Proficiency as a Hiring Criterion:

66% of leaders stated they would not hire someone without AI skills.

71% of leaders prefer hiring less experienced candidates with AI skills over more experienced ones without AI expertise.

AI and Career Growth:

76% of employees believe AI skills are essential to remain competitive in the job market.

69% of employees think AI can help them secure promotions faster.

Professionals skilled in AI are 142 times more likely to add AI-related capabilities (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot) to their profiles, showing a rapid uptake in skilling.

Lack of Learning and Development:

Only 25% of organizations plan to offer AI training this year.

Just 39% of employees using AI at work received training from their employers.

Role Evolution:

New roles, such as "Head of AI," have grown 323% in the last eight years and are now critical leadership positions.

So What and What's Next?

Of course, every single organization must evaluate their current status and investment needs on AI. HR should not feel to be under pressure of AI trends and take actions. 

This report demonstrates the global trend. If your organization is a player in the global market and needs talented players in this market to compete, then it's better to take some HR actions, even by at least increasing the AI awareness in the organization. 

If the organization is capable of investing more in AI technologies, the above statistics help us with the areas where HR professionals may focus and invest more. 

My suggestion is, don't just get caught up in the trends but also don't miss the train. Just be aware which area to prioritize keeping in mind the pros and cons of using AI.