New report shows workers are comparing their own AI adoption pace with each other
The adoption of artificial intelligence is now contributing to workplace competition among colleagues, according to a new report, which demonstrates how AI is reshaping professional relationships.
Latest findings from Resume Now revealed that some workers are beginning to compare AI skills among each other, with 24% already feeling that they are far or somewhat behind their colleagues.
Nearly half (43%) of the report's respondents said their current AI skills are "about the same as their coworkers," while another 33% feel they are ahead of their colleagues.
The comparisons come amid an emerging "dominant anxiety" in the workforce that they are being left behind in the wake of AI adoption in workplaces.
Resume Now's findings indicate that 43% of workers already feel like they are being left behind when it comes to AI skills level, while another 45% feel their skills are adequate.
"Coworker comparisons are adding another layer of pressure to the AI skills race," the report read.
In fact, the report found that 39% of workers are very and somewhat concerned about how quickly their colleagues are adapting to AI tools.
These workers are concerned that coworkers who adopt AI more quickly will gain a competitive advantage in the workplace, according to the report.
"Workers increasingly view AI adoption as a potential source of workplace advantage," the report read.
"The concern that faster adopters may gain an edge suggests that AI skills are becoming part of how employees assess their standing and competitiveness relative to those they work alongside."
Impact on workplace relationships
The report's findings demonstrate the growing impact of AI on workplace relationships.
Previous reports have indicated that AI adoption is severing workplace ties as the technology becomes the go-to tool for employees who have questions at work, effectively reducing communication among colleagues.
Last year's findings from The Adaptavist Group showed that one in four employees would rather engage in small talk with an AI bot than with a human, with the figure rising to 32% for business leaders.
Resume Now's findings indicate that professional relationships could further deteriorate as AI adoption drives coworker competition.
It also highlighted the growing feelings of insecurity in the workforce when it comes to their current AI skills, with 37% of employees saying they feel the pressure to develop AI skills on their own time.
"For employers, it underscored the importance of setting clear expectations and providing employees with opportunities to develop those skills on the job," the report read.
Neal Riley, AI innovation lead at The Adaptavist Group, also previously stressed the importance of fostering the right environment in order to prevent potential drawbacks from AI adoption.
"The key to achieving a culture where AI use remains healthy and work-conducive is one which encourages responsible AI experimentation, and has a framework for measuring success," Riley previously said.
