In a joint report released by Microsoft Corp. and LinkedIn titled “AI at work is here. Now comes the hard part,” the 2024 Work Trend Index presents insights on the impact of AI on work and the labor market. Based on a survey of 31,000 individuals across 31 countries, the report highlights that 75% of knowledge workers currently use AI at work. While employees find that AI saves time, boosts creativity, and allows them to focus on important tasks, a majority of leaders recognize the importance of AI adoption to stay competitive. However, concerns exist around quantifying productivity gains from AI and lack of a clear vision and plan for implementation within companies. As a result, employees are taking matters into their own hands, with 78% bringing their own AI tools to work. This trend, known as Bring Your Own AI (BYOAI), can hinder strategic AI use at scale and pose data security risks. Leaders have the opportunity to leverage this momentum to drive business impact on a larger scale.
The report also indicates that AI raises the bar and breaks the career ceiling for employees. While AI and job loss are common concerns, there is a hidden talent shortage in various fields such as cybersecurity, engineering, and creative design. A majority of leaders are worried about filling roles with talent this year, highlighting the need for individuals to upskill on AI. The data reveals that 46% of professionals globally are considering changing careers, with an uptick in individuals adding AI skills to their profiles. Despite two-thirds of leaders acknowledging the importance of hiring individuals with AI skills, only 39% of users have received AI training from their companies. This gap in skill development has led professionals to seek AI training independently, with a surge in individuals adding AI skills on platforms like LinkedIn. Companies that empower employees with AI tools and training are more likely to attract top talent, while professionals who enhance their AI aptitude gain a competitive edge in the job market.
Furthermore, the research identifies four types of AI users, ranging from skeptics who rarely use AI to power users who extensively leverage AI in their work. AI power users have transformed their work routines, reimagining business processes and saving over 30 minutes per day with AI tools. These users have expressed that AI makes their workload more manageable and enjoyable, but they often receive support from leadership in terms of AI training and encouragement. Power users are more likely to have heard from their CEOs about the importance of using generative AI at work, receive tailored AI training for their roles, and receive encouragement to explore how AI can transform their functions. This highlights the significance of leadership support in fostering a culture of AI adoption and innovation within organizations.
Microsoft has also introduced Copilot for Microsoft 365 innovations to support individuals in getting started with AI. The new autocomplete feature in Copilot offers suggestions to complete prompts based on what is being typed, enhancing the quality of results. The rewrite feature helps turn basic prompts into detailed ones with a single click. Additionally, the Catch Up feature in Copilot provides personal insights based on recent activities and recommendations, such as preparing for upcoming meetings by offering relevant information. The new capabilities in Copilot Lab enable individuals to create, publish, and manage tailored prompts for their teams, roles, and functions, further empowering users to leverage AI tools effectively.
In conclusion, the joint report by Microsoft and LinkedIn sheds light on the growing influence of AI in the workplace and the labor market. With employees embracing AI tools for increased productivity and creativity, there is a need for companies to catch up in terms of implementing strategic AI initiatives. Individuals are taking charge of their AI skill development, signaling a shift towards a more AI-focused workforce. Leadership support plays a crucial role in encouraging AI adoption and innovation, empowering employees to become AI power users. With the introduction of new features in Copilot for Microsoft 365, individuals have access to enhanced tools and capabilities to leverage AI effectively in their work, indicating a positive trend towards AI integration in the professional landscape.