Recent research shows that concerns about potential job displacements remain prevalent despite the increased adoption of AI in the workplace.

Microsoft and LinkedIn's Work Trend Index

Microsoft and LinkedIn unveiled their Annual Work Trend Index on Wednesday. The index examines the impact of AI on the job market and surveyed 31,000 individuals across 31 countries, including the U.S., Australia, the UK, France, Germany, India, Singapore, and Brazil.

According to the result, 75% of workers utilize AI in their workplaces, but more than half do not want to admit they use it for their most critical tasks, fearing that it may render them replaceable. Nearly half of professionals also express concerns about AI potentially displacing their roles and contemplate leaving their current positions in the coming year.

Colette Stallbaumer, general manager of Microsoft Copilot and co-founder of Microsoft WorkLab, encourages workers to confront their fears and embrace AI, emphasizing that the more they lean in and learn, the better off they will become. As per Stallbaumer, overcoming the fear barrier and adopting an optimistic and growth-oriented mindset can enhance one's marketability, whether within their current company or when seeking new opportunities.

Companies Are More Inclined to Hire Workers with AI Aptitude

While hiring for technical AI talent has surged by 323% over the past eight years, workers from non-technical backgrounds who possess skills in using AI tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are also in high demand.

The study revealed that 66% of leaders would not consider hiring someone lacking AI skills. In comparison, 71% preferred hiring a less experienced candidate with AI skills over a more experienced one without them. Despite the importance of AI skills, nearly half of U.S. executives do not currently invest in AI tools or products for their employees, and just over a quarter plan to offer generative AI training this year. Moreover, only 39% of individuals worldwide who use AI at work have received AI training from their employers.

READ ALSO: Amazon Director Dismisses Job Displacement Myth, Cites Own Robotics, AI Division Enhancing Employees' Roles Instead

Aneesh Raman, vice president and workforce expert at LinkedIn, remarked to CNBC Make It that employees seem to grasp the importance of adopting AI. In contrast, companies have yet to embrace it fully. The big call out for companies is that they either fall behind or forge ahead in the AI landscape, emphasizing the need to discuss their stand on AI and how it can drive business growth.

Workers are Utilizing AI to Get Ahead

Despite these concerns, workers recognize AI tools' benefits and leverage them to advance their careers.

More than three-quarters of professionals acknowledge the necessity of AI skills to stay competitive in the job market and believe it will expand their job prospects. Additionally, under 70% believe AI skills can accelerate their career advancement.

Raman explained that everyone must recognize that our jobs will evolve and new categories will emerge. Focusing on developing skills is essential to cope with this anxiety, emphasizing Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella's statement: "It's the era of the learn-it-all, not the know-it-all."

RELATED ARTICLE: ChatGPT Faces Another EU Privacy Complaint After Failing to Correct Misinformation About People