Indian Employees Call for Shorter Work-Days with AI Automation: UKG Study
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the workplace has sparked a demand for shorter workdays among Indian employees, according to a recent study by UKG, a leading provider of HR, payroll, and workforce management solutions. The study, conducted across 10 countries, including India, surveyed over 4,000 employees to gain insights into their perspectives on the evolving role of AI.
The findings revealed that 76% of Indian employees (28% strongly agree and 48% agree) want shorter workdays and workweeks if some of their tasks are automated using AI. This growing demand highlights the impact AI is having on workplace dynamics and the desire for increased work-life balance.
Furthermore, the study found that 72% of Indian employees personally encounter AI-powered tools, systems, and processes in their organizations. These employees utilize generative AI tools such as Chat GPT (75%), Open AI (47%), and Google Bard (22%) for their jobs and even in their personal lives.
The study also shed light on the perception of AI skills among Indian employees. Sixty-two percent of respondents believe that AI skills will become more valuable than work experience in the next two years, whether it be for finding a new job or maintaining their current one. This belief has prompted employees to recognize the importance of familiarizing themselves with AI technology to remain competitive in the job market.
Ninety percent of employees (41% strongly agree and 49% agree) feel that they deserve higher pay if they possess AI skills relevant to their job. The integration of AI into the workplace is seen as a valuable asset, and employees expect to be compensated accordingly.
On a global scale, executives at companies currently using AI estimate that 70% of their workforce will utilize AI to automate or augment their job tasks by 2028. Even executives at companies not currently utilizing AI estimate that 20% of their workforce will adopt AI within the next five years.
The study also highlighted the positive impact of AI on employees’ quality of life. A staggering 95% of Indian employees agree that AI in the workplace can improve their overall well-being. This sentiment is further corroborated by the finding that 52% of employees in India have benefited from the usage of AI compared to 49% of companies.
The study reveals that Indian employees trust AI-generated content to some degree, with 91% expressing confidence in the output of AI tools. Additionally, 93% of employees have embraced the help of AI in creating original content. This reflects the growing influence of AI in key organizational operations and decision-making processes.
Sumeet Doshi, the Country Manager of UKG India, emphasizes the importance of fostering a better understanding of AI among employees. He believes that organizations need to be transparent about their use of AI, addressing any concerns regarding ethical use and data privacy. Doshi envisions AI as an enabler for positive change in organizations, from recruitment to day-to-day operations.
In conclusion, Indian employees are embracing AI in the workplace and recognizing its potential benefits. The demand for shorter workdays alongside AI automation underscores the desire for improved work-life balance. As AI continues to shape the future of work, companies must ensure transparency and equip their employees with the necessary skills to leverage AI effectively. By doing so, organizations can create a harmonious synergy between workers and AI technology, leading to a happier and more productive workforce.
Keywords: Indian employees, AI automation, shorter workdays, UKG study, workplace dynamics, AI skills, work-life balance, compensation, global executives, AI adoption, quality of life, AI-generated content, influence of AI, organizational operations, decision-making processes, Sumeet Doshi, transparency, positive change.
