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As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve and integrate into various work environments, employees are discovering innovative ways to leverage its capabilities to enhance their productivity.
In Microsoft’s recent report titled The Year the Frontier Firm Is Born, the company aimed to understand how AI is utilized in the workplace. They surveyed 31,000 employees across 31 countries, posing the question, “In the past year, which tasks have you relied more on AI for than a human colleague?” According to Alexia Cambon, senior research director at Microsoft, findings indicate that workers increasingly turn to AI for assistance in tasks such as information retrieval, data analysis, brainstorming, and creative processes.
The follow-up question posed by Microsoft was “why?” Cambon explains.
While many employees appreciate AI for its constant availability and “endless stream of ideas on demand,” emotional factors also play a role in this shift. Microsoft discovered that nearly 17% of individuals, when undertaking the aforementioned tasks, favor AI over colleagues due to “fear of human judgment.”
Jessica Weiss, a happiness expert and TEDx speaker, suggests that it’s not surprising for some individuals to regard AI as a substitute for human interaction. However, she warns, this trend might be detrimental to emotional well-being.
Weiss offers insights into why workers are increasingly turning towards AI and how to mitigate potential negative effects.
‘There’s a bit of that social anxiety hangover’
Engaging with others at work can provoke anxiety—an effect exacerbated in recent years by the pandemic, according to Weiss. “I think we’re all dealing with various levels of social awkwardness,” she remarks. She believes that the extended impact of the pandemic has contributed to what she describes as a “social anxiety hangover.” Given this backdrop, it’s understandable why many might feel apprehensive about being judged by their peers.
Weiss emphasizes the importance of human connection, particularly within professional settings. “Building relationships and friendships at work is crucial for achieving happiness and fulfillment in one’s career,” she states.
‘Use AI to kind of grease the wheels of collaboration’
Weiss encourages individuals to initiate at least “one interaction, one conversation, or one collaborative effort” at work, even if it feels challenging. Such efforts can significantly enhance overall well-being.
AI can serve as a valuable asset in this context. “Leverage AI to facilitate collaboration,” she suggests, “but not as a replacement for it.” For instance, employees might utilize their preferred generative AI tools to strategize on initiating difficult conversations or to brainstorm innovative concepts ahead of collaboration sessions, providing a launching pad for team discussions.
Ultimately, the goal should be to “employ AI to strengthen workplace connections,” Weiss advises, rather than to supplant them.
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