The week's developments on automation & the workplace, explained | 6.10.23

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AI's rapid advancement could profoundly change the way we work — but it doesn’t mean humans will be replaced any time soon. Thriving in an AI-driven workplace, experts say, is about being creative, innovative, and an effective leader.

AI-related job postings have more than doubled in the UK, outpacing non-AI job applications by 10%. And more than 70% of UK employees want to give the remote work lifestyle a try, with many thinking they can be just as productive from the beach as they are in the office.

Explore these topics — and the latest details on how hybrid work may be limiting your career progression, how UK business students are embracing AI and the new AI generational divide — in the CogX Must Reads.

—Charlie & the Research & Intelligence team

P.S. Did you miss some of the sessions at the festival? The CogX Festival 2023 is now available on demand! Watch inspiring sessions on the future of work, AI and leadership from the likes of Yuval Noah Harari, Stephen Fry and Steven Bartlett on our YouTube channel now.

CogX Must Reads

Top Stories

AI can’t replace these key workplace skills

The fundamental nature of work may shift due to AI automation, but that doesn’t mean human workers will become obsolete. According to experts, success in an AI-driven workplace relies on developing key human skills that machines lack, including being creative, innovative, and an effective leader. (Fast Company)

UK’s AI job postings double in two years

Job postings related to AI have more than doubled in the last two years, and 76% of UK professionals say they are excited about the use of AI technology at their work — and want to learn more about it. As the workforce adapts to AI-driven changes, developing AI skills is becoming crucial for future-proofing careers and addressing evolving job requirements. (HR News)

Future of the Office

70% of workers want to become digital nomads, new survey finds 

Nearly one in three employees reported having already tried the lifestyle, with most believing they could work just as efficiently from the beach as they do in the office. Gen Z and millennials are the most enthusiastic about this work pattern: 83% would like to work abroad, if approved by their bosses. (HR Grapevine)

Most CEOs admit plans to reward staff who return to the office

90% of CEOs would reward employees returning to the office with promotions and pay increases, a new study shows. Experts suggest that despite the appeal of hybrid working — like flexibility and improved productivity — greater attendance in the workplace may be necessary for professional growth.  (People Management)

AI & Automation

UK business students embrace AI but fear job displacement

A survey found that 78% of UK business students feel prepared for an AI-driven workplace — and 82% plan to incorporate AI tools into their daily workflow. However, more than half of respondents feared that AI may replace their jobs within the next decade, driving many to seek careers less susceptible to automation.  (Digit News)

Senior UK workers could miss job opportunities due to the AI skills gap, study finds

Results showed that 34% of 55-64 year-olds were uninterested in receiving any kind of AI training at their workplace, compared to 62% of 25-34-year-olds who express keen interest. This generational divide may put older workers at risk of job replacement, as 57% of HR professionals say they would prefer to hire candidates with at least some level of AI knowledge. (HR News)

In case you missed it

Watch this CBC special on how AI is becoming a significant presence in the workforce, raising both concerns and opportunities:

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