Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of the workplace. However, while 72% of U.S. hiring managers say their company uses AI – up from 66% last fall – 55% admit their company doesn't have the resources or training to help employees use it effectively.

This leaves a significant skills gap. According to a recent Harris Poll, only 12% of employees have had any formal AI-focused training. This leaves many employees unsure how to leverage AI safely and effectively in their daily work.

This gap is not just a technical issue but a strategic one. Organizations that fail to equip their teams with the necessary AI skills risk falling behind competitors who prioritize continuous learning and adaptation.

Common concerns that hold organizations back from AI training:

• 37% worry employees will put in less effort
• 37% fear a drop in creativity
• 36% anticipate weaker problem-solving
• 35% see a potential loss in skill development
• 32% expect collaboration to suffer

Despite these concerns, evidence shows that properly designed AI training can actually enhance, rather than hinder, employee performance and engagement. Key benefits include:

• Enhanced Productivity: Proper training enables employees to leverage AI tools effectively, streamlining workflows and reducing manual tasks.
• Improved Decision-Making: With a solid understanding of AI, employees can interpret data insights more accurately, leading to better-informed decisions.
• Risk Mitigation: Training ensures that employees are aware of ethical considerations, data privacy laws, and potential biases in AI systems, reducing the risk of compliance issues.

Nearly two-thirds of job seekers worry that AI could limit job opportunities, and nearly half fear their roles could be eliminated entirely. However, while automation is reshaping the workforce, human oversight is still necessary.

To bridge the AI skills gap, organizations should provide accessible, practical training programs for all skill levels, encourage hands-on learning, and promote a culture of continuous development. Leaders can support this by guiding teams through AI integration and addressing concerns about technology adoption.

By equipping employees with the skills to embrace AI, organizations can drive innovation, reduce risk, and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly automated world.

ASE Connect

AI Micro-Certification – ASE offers a Micro-Certification in AI offering an overview of how to utilize Artificial Intelligence in the business world including in HR and recruitment. This certification consists of 1.5 core credits (3 half-day core courses) and .5 elective credits (1 half-day elective course). Request more information here.

AI Toolkit - Visit the ASE AI Resources page for a complete toolkit that include an AI survey report, on-demand webinar, AI Implementation Guide, and more.

HR Smart Session - Join us for an HR Smart Session, AI in HR: Recruitment, Engagement, and Cultural Impact, in Grand Rapids on November 19th. Explore how AI is reshaping the workplace.  Learn more and register here.

Sources: Lifewire; HR Dive; Express Services dba Express Employment Professionals