Artificial Intelligence and the fear of job loss: How AI implementation affects employees

With the rapid adoption of AI in companies, anxiety is growing among employees, who fear losing their jobs to AI, Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports, citing RAND.

According to the American Psychological Association, 41 percent of workers are concerned about AI taking their jobs. Among millennial and Gen Z workers, who are more likely to use AI in their jobs, 50 percent express concern about AI replacing them, highlighting that those most familiar with AI feel particularly threatened by its potential impact.

Main challenges

Technological change is causing many workers to fear for their future, which can undermine productivity and motivation. Employee trust in innovation is falling, which can slow the successful adoption of new technologies. Workers may even sabotage projects if they feel threatened by being laid off. This fear is heightened by reports such as the World Economic Forum predicting 26 million jobs will be lost to automation by 2027.

According to experts, to overcome this situation, it is necessary to take measures to create psychological safety in the workplace. Transparency regarding plans for the implementation of AI, regular meetings and discussions can relieve tension. It is important to explain how AI can help improve the work of employees, rather than replace them. Training programs to improve the skills of employees will help them adapt to new requirements and reduce fears.

Another important measure is the introduction of mentoring programs, where experienced employees will help young people master the new technologies. It is also necessary to provide employees with the opportunity to actively participate in the process of implementing AI.

How AI Helps in the Workplace

However, there are also positive aspects to the implementation of AI in work. Most employees who use AI tools to help them at work say it has had a positive impact on many aspects of their work.

Specifically, 76% of employees reported increased productivity, 74% noted improved quality of work and time management. Also, 68% emphasized that AI promotes creativity, 66% noted an increase in job satisfaction, and 59% indicated a positive impact on their mental health.

The use of generative AI by organizations has grown from 33 percent in 2023 to 65 percent earlier this year, according to a global study by McKinsey.