A Qualtrics research reveals a significant trust gap between employees and their leaders regarding the effective implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. This study highlights a concerning disconnect that could hinder the successful integration of AI technologies.
In Singapore, only half of the managers and individual contributors trust their leaders to effectively implement AI, a stark 17 percentage points lower than the trust levels reported by senior leaders. This disparity extends to perceptions of employee wellbeing, with less than half (47%) of those in lower managerial positions believing that their leaders prioritise people’s interests over profit when introducing new technologies. Moreover, only 48% of employees at this level feel that their organisation operates under clear ethical guidelines regarding AI use, compared to 67% of senior leaders who hold this view.
Dr. Cecelia Herbert, a Workplace Behavioural scientist at Qualtrics, emphasises that the ongoing transformation in workplaces is exacerbating existing tensions between employees and their bosses.
She notes that while executives may be optimistic about AI's potential to boost productivity, employees are more cautious, often prioritising quality and efficiency over sheer output. Only 26% of employees indicated they would use time saved by AI to increase their workload; instead, 57% plan to improve efficiency and 50% aim to enhance the quality of their work.
The research underscores the intrinsic link between employee experience and AI adoption. Workers who feel engaged and have their expectations met are significantly more likely to trust their leaders, perceive AI positively, and frequently utilise these technologies. For instance, highly engaged employees are twice as likely to trust their bosses regarding AI implementation compared to those with low engagement levels.
To bridge this trust gap, organisations must prioritise effective communication and support for employees navigating AI changes. Qualtrics suggests aligning on AI goals and providing robust training and guidelines to empower employees. Additionally, fostering internal AI champions can facilitate smoother transitions and enhance adherence to ethical practices.
As organisations continue to explore AI's potential, building trust through transparent dialogue and prioritising employee needs will be crucial for navigating this complex landscape. The future of work hinges on leaders recognising and addressing these disparities, ultimately fostering a more cohesive and trusting workplace environment.
