AI has transformed the way that businesses operate. By streamlining processes and enhancing decision-making capabilities, AI is increasing productivity in almost every sector. However, AI’s impact on supporting employees is often overlooked. Rather than simply using it to squeeze more and more productivity out of workers, employers should consider ways in which AI can be used to help their employees feel more satisfied, engaged, and well-rested.
Saving time on repetitive tasks
Repetitive administrative tasks, such as scheduling meetings, processing expense reports, or managing employee leave requests, can be automated using AI. This reduces the burden on employees and allows them to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their roles. AI tools can even assist in drafting emails or summarising documents, saving valuable time.
Dan Thomson, Founder of Sensay, notes that while this use of AI can and should be used to increase workplace productivity, this doesn’t mean that organisations should keep expecting increased output from their employees. Instead, they should take advantage of the time saved by using AI and allow employees the time to rest and unwind. This will increase employee satisfaction and ultimately increase productivity further.
Improving communication and collaboration
AI-driven platforms can facilitate better communication within teams, especially if they are working remotely. AI-driven platforms such as Miro provide collaborative whiteboards that enable teams to brainstorm ideas in real-time, regardless of their location. The AI features improve collaboration by organising thoughts, proposing related concepts, and even generating new ideas based on ongoing discussion.
Language translation tools powered by AI can also bridge communication gaps in global teams, making it easier for employees to stay connected to each other and communicate effectively.
Personalising training and development
AI can analyse individual employee skills, performance metrics, and learning preferences to deliver tailored training programs. By identifying skill gaps and suggesting relevant courses or training materials, AI ensures that employees have access to relevant and engaging resources. Deloitte is using ‘NeuroAvatars’ or digital twins trained on individual employees to create learning experiences that cater to an individual’s distinct needs. This makes training and development more effective and enjoyable for employees.
AI assistants can also be on hand to answer queries and provide feedback in real time. This allows for continuous improvement and means employees don’t have to wait for their busy managers to get around to giving them feedback. AI can also identify achievements and milestones, enabling managers to recognise and reward employees.
Enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
AI can support DEI initiatives by reducing biases in hiring, promotions, and performance reviews. Algorithms can ensure that job postings reach diverse candidate pools and that selection processes focus on skills and qualifications rather than unconscious biases.
PWC discuss the example of gender biases in hiring and promotion and how AI can help reduce these. Research shows that only 8% of Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) in the US are women. Noting that women have long been held back from management and leadership positions, this PWC report suggests that organisations use AI in hiring and promotion processes to minimise these kinds of biases that hold women back in the workplace.
Conclusion
AI has the potential to revolutionise the way businesses support their employees, creating workplaces that are more efficient, inclusive, and supportive. By leveraging AI to address both practical and emotional needs, companies can drive better business outcomes while also improving employee satisfaction. As AI advances, businesses that prioritise its integration into their employee support strategies will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent.
