Knowledge workers are generally optimistic about the benefits of generative AI but point to challenges such as cybersecurity and lack of skills, according to recent research from Salesforce, which, in partnership with YouGov, surveyed over 4,000 employees as part of its Generative AI Snapshot Research Series.
Just over half (54%) of knowledge workers believe generative AI will advance their career, and 65% believe it will allow them to focus on more strategic work. Respondents also believe generative AI will save them five hours per week. In addition, 68% of employees say generative AI will help them better serve their customers.
Their bosses are optimistic as well, with 82% of business leaders saying that generative AI will lower overall business costs, and 80% saying it will increase revenue.
Upskilling is a challenge, however, according to the findings, with 40% saying they don’t know how to effectively use generative AI at work, and 53% indicating they don’t know how to get the most value out of it. Moreover, two out of three workers (67%) expect their employer to provide opportunities to learn how to use generative AI, but nearly the same amount (66%) say their employer does not offer training currently.
Security is a concern too, as 70% of business leaders reveal they believe their teams have the skills to use generative AI effectively and safely, and 73% of employees believe generative AI introduces new security risks. Furthermore, 59% of respondents say generative AI outputs are biased, and 54% believe they are inaccurate.
Employees say four major elements are required to use generative AI successfully in their role and at their organization: human oversight (60%), enhanced security measures (59%), trusted customer data (58%), and ethical use guidelines (58%). Sounds like some trusted adviser duties await for channel pros!—Colleen Frye
