Microsoft Corp. and LinkedIn recently released the 2024 Work Trend Index, focusing on the state of AI at work in the Asia Pacific region. The report highlights the growing use of AI in the workplace, with employees seeking to enhance their skills to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. The research, based on a survey of 31,000 people across 31 countries, shows the significant impact of AI on the way people work, lead, and hire globally. With the use of generative AI tools doubling in the last six months and increased adoption of AI skills by professionals, leaders are now faced with the challenge of moving from experimentation to tangible business impact.
The report reveals that 83% of knowledge workers in the APAC region are currently using AI at work, citing time savings, increased creativity, and improved focus on important tasks as key benefits. However, while 84% of APAC leaders believe that their companies need to adopt AI to remain competitive, 61% express concern about the lack of a clear plan and vision for implementation within their organizations. As a result, many employees are taking matters into their own hands by bringing their own AI tools to work, a trend known as Bring Your Own AI (BYOAI). This presents an opportunity for leaders to channel this momentum into tangible returns on investment.
The rise of the AI power user is reshaping workdays in the APAC region, with these individuals saving an average of 30 minutes each day by leveraging AI tools. The report also emphasizes the increasing demand for professionals with AI skills, with 76% of APAC leaders stating that they would prioritize hiring candidates with AI expertise over those lacking in this area. This shift highlights the importance of upskilling and advancing AI aptitude to succeed in a competitive job market.
To further empower professionals in the APAC region, Microsoft and LinkedIn are introducing new capabilities and tools to enhance AI skills and productivity. Microsoft is unveiling Copilot for Microsoft 365, which offers conversational features and personalized recommendations to streamline work processes. LinkedIn is providing over 600 AI courses, with 50 new AI learning courses available for free. AI-powered coaching and personalized takeaways aim to support career advancement and skill development for individuals in the region.
The research underscores the need for APAC leaders to prioritize agility and skill development in order to stay ahead in an AI-driven work environment. With the rapid evolution of the workplace, investing in AI capabilities and fostering an equipped workforce can provide a competitive edge. By embracing AI tools and harnessing the potential of AI at work, organizations in the APAC region can drive innovation, productivity, and growth. Through strategic adoption of AI technologies and a focus on skill development, companies can navigate the challenges of the digital age and thrive in the future of work.