Salesforce surveyed over 4,000 full-time desk workers as part of its Generative AI Snapshot Research Series, finding that while 54% of workers believe generative AI will advance their career, 62% say they don’t have the skills to effectively and safely use the technology. This data follows a recent survey that found only 1 in 10 global workers have overall, in-demand AI skills. The research also indicates that while workers want to learn and expect their companies to provide upskilling opportunities, employers often fall short of expectations.
Desk workers are optimistic about the impact of generative AI
Respondents believe generative AI will transform their role. In fact, 62% say generative AI will require a new set of skills at work and 56% say the technology will transform their role altogether. With the help of generative AI, workers say they can focus on strategic work and save time:
There is a generative AI skills gap
While workers are optimistic about the potential of generative AI, they lack the know-how to take full advantage of this rapidly-evolving technology.
Specifically, workers say they lack the required skill sets to use generative AI:
Desk workers expect their company to close the skills gap, but employers are lagging
Workers want to learn and are looking to their companies for direction, but employers are falling short. 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 on the technology.
Business leaders see clear cost-saving incentives to closing the generative AI skills gap:
“Generative AI presents massive opportunities for businesses and workers alike. However, as AI becomes more common in the workplace, the skills gap will continue to widen,” said Ann Weeby, SVP of Trailhead, Salesforce. “Companies have a responsibility to democratize access to needed skills and training to close the AI skills gap.”
“AI has the potential to transform jobs across every industry and specialty,” said Brent Hyder, President and Chief People Officer, Salesforce. “Employers must anticipate these kinds of seismic technological shifts and provide resources and training to ensure the success of their employees, customers, and ultimately their business.”