According to a survey by D2L, about 43% of workers across generations, especially Gen Z workers, are worried about being replaced by employees with better skills in generative artificial intelligence (AI). However, 60% of workers desire to use generative AI tools more frequently at work. Younger workers are more likely to plan professional development courses to prepare for the future workplace. Despite concerns, worker confidence in AI may be growing, with HR and tech professionals anticipating increased demand for their skills.
According to a report by the Society for Human Resource Management, the finance, legal, and tech sectors will be heavily affected by AI, leading to a reduction in jobs such as loan and mortgage brokers, accountants, and legal aids. Blue-collar workers on factory floors will be less affected. While the short-term outlook for white-collar professions may not be positive, AI could potentially lead to cost savings and the creation of new roles in the long term.
Techaisle’s annual survey of SMBs and Midmarket firms reveals that the SMB market is focused on growth and embracing new solutions. Both Small businesses and upper midmarket firms prioritize increasing business growth. Core midmarket businesses aim to drive growth as well. The top technology priorities for all segments include cloud integration, collaboration, and security. AI is a top challenge for SMBs, along with implementing new strategic applications. SMBs with advanced cloud capabilities outperform those still learning to integrate cloud into their operations.
Let’s quote the blog.
The SMB market is a study in contrasts: the tension between boundless aspiration and a constrained reality. However, data shows that a market that has mastered the cloud and is excited by AI will dedicate itself to growth in 2024.
All SMB market segments are poised for growth in 2024. Small businesses (1-99 employees), which generally lack financial, technology, and human resources, often must react to conditions beyond their control. The small business segment tends to reflect the market directions set by larger competitors. Within the SB group, the priority of “increase business growth” has risen steadily over the past three years: the third-ranked business objective in 2022, the second-ranked pursuit in 2023, and the top-ranked business goal for the current year.
The Techaisle survey’s emphasis on the SMB market’s focus on growth, cloud integration, and excitement about AI highlights a significant opportunity for smaller businesses. The key is actively integrating it.
Take heed that younger employees are proving to be more nervous about AI. There is room for investment here, transforming anxiety into empowerment and making AI a partner in the workplace rather than a competitor.