ECNETNews reports on a new study highlighting the growing challenges faced by full-time employees due to the rise of AI technology. The research indicates that while AI investments are soaring, they are also increasing workloads, hampering productivity, and contributing to employee burnout.
Despite 96% of C-suite leaders believing AI will enhance productivity, the study reveals that a staggering 77% of employees using AI report feeling overwhelmed by their work. Alarmingly, nearly half of these workers are uncertain about how to achieve the anticipated productivity improvements.
Experts emphasize that the failure to unlock AI’s potential stems from the integration of advanced technologies into outdated work models. Achieving the dual goals of increased productivity and improved employee well-being requires a significant overhaul in how organizations manage talent and workflows.
The report outlines critical findings: one in three full-time employees is likely to quit in the next six months due to escalating productivity demands. Furthermore, 81% of C-suite executives recognize they have placed greater demands on their staff this past year, leading to 71% of full-time employees experiencing burnout. Alarmingly, 65% cite struggling with their employer’s productivity expectations.
The disconnect between leadership expectations and employee experiences continues, with 96% of leaders predicting higher productivity from AI while 77% of employees report increased workloads. Tasks such as reviewing AI-generated content, learning to navigate AI tools, and performing additional responsibilities contribute to this trend.
Despite the pervading challenges, freelancers report higher productivity levels when using AI. Nearly half of freelancers express confidence in their AI skills, and over a third utilize AI tools regularly. Interestingly, 56% of freelancers do not struggle to meet productivity demands, in stark contrast to just 35% of full-time employees.
Additionally, C-suite leaders who engage freelance talent are experiencing enhanced organizational agility and workforce well-being. Results show that these leaders have achieved notable improvements in areas such as agility (45%), quality of work (40%), and revenue (36%). Hiring freelancers has also contributed to improved well-being and engagement among full-time employees, with nearly half of executives turning to freelancers to facilitate delayed AI initiatives.
To optimize the productivity benefits of AI, experts advise that leaders must foster an AI-enhanced work environment. This includes tapping into AI-ready talent pools and establishing collaborative productivity measures with their workforce, all while embracing a skills-based hiring and development approach.
