- Global study reveals disconnect between C-suite expectations and employee experiences with AI
- 77% of employees report AI has increased workload and hampered productivity
- 47% of workers don’t know how to achieve expected AI-driven productivity gains
- Freelancers outpacing full-time employees in meeting AI-related demands
- Experts recommend rethinking productivity measures and investing in AI-ready talent
A new global study casts doubt on the idea that AI is transforming the workplace into a productivity paradise. Despite the optimistic forecasts from C-suite executives, a significant majority of employees are finding that AI is actually adding to their workload and hindering productivity.
This disconnect between expectations and reality is highlighted in a recent study conducted by The Upwork Research Institute. The study, which surveyed over 2,500 executives, employees, and freelancers worldwide, reveals a growing gap between what leaders expect from AI and the actual experiences of those using it on the job. The findings paint a complex picture of AI’s impact on the modern workplace, raising questions about whether this technology is truly living up to its promise.
Are AI investments translating into results?
While 96% of executives believe AI would boost productivity, the reality is starkly different for employees.
A whopping 77% report that AI has actually increased their workload and made it harder to reach productivity goals. This disconnect is even more pronounced considering that nearly half of employees don’t know how to effectively use AI to meet their employer’s expectations.
The pressure to adapt to AI is burning out the workforce. One in three full-time employees are so overwhelmed they’re considering quitting in the next six months. This is reflected in the 71% who report feeling burned out, with 65% struggling to meet productivity demands.
There is a glimmer of hope, however. The study found that freelancers are excelling with AI, often exceeding productivity expectations and outperforming full-time staff. This is likely due to their higher adoption of AI tools and their adaptability to new technologies.
How can businesses leverage AI
Kelly Monahan, managing director and head of The Upwork Research Institute, emphasizes the need for a fundamental shift in how organizations approach AI integration. “Introducing new technologies into outdated work models and systems is failing to unlock the full expected productivity value of AI,” Monahan states.
She advocates for an “AI-enhanced work model” that leverages AI-ready talent pools, co-creates productivity measures with the workforce, and implements a skills-based approach to hiring and talent development.
To address these challenges, the study recommends several strategies for both employers and employees.
For organizations, these include investing beyond the tech stack, bringing in outside experts to assist with AI projects, rethinking productivity metrics, and moving towards skill-based hiring.
Employees are encouraged to actively engage with AI training programs, provide feedback on AI tools, and embrace outside expertise to alleviate workload concerns.
