A Guide to AI Training in the Workplace

AI tools are quickly being added into every industry, function and software. Similarly, the Michael Page Talent Trends report revealed that 41% of UK workers use Gen AI tools in their role, and 83% of them use it at least once a week.

Whether you think AI is the next industrial revolution or just another tech bubble, the capability and versatility of AI is undeniable, and it seems everyone is using it.

This means that working professionals are getting more done, expanding their expertise and delving deeper into more readily accessible information...

…It also means lots of tech use in the workplace that employers may not know about, or employees improperly using AI-generated information, or company data being passed into AI software. 

Why AI Training Matters for Companies and Employees

• Reducing risks

The risks of misusing AI go beyond poorly AI-generated images containing six-fingered hands and oddly placed limbs, it can mean incorrect ‘facts’, leaked personal information and even discrimination from bias datasets.

Distributing false information, even innocently, can affect a business’ reputation. But add the potential risks of data mistakes or even malware downloads and a company is looking at very costly issues.

In fact, the EU have already passed legislation (the EU AI Act) requiring providers and contractors of AI systems to provide AI training to employees for these very issues.  

It stands to reason that similar legislation will be created in the UK, but when the risks are so great, why wait? 

• Mutual futureproofing  

When employees are upskilled to use GenAI programs like ChatGPT, data analytics and automation platforms properly, they’ll be able to do more tasks, faster. This benefits the company as productivity and thus competitive edge, increases.

Similarly, employees benefit as they develop AI-literacy, as well as soft-skills like creative problem-solving. This kind of ‘futureproofing’ is essential, as according to Talent Trends, up to 43% of UK employees believe AI will shape their future career plans. So, providing training will likely result in increased employee motivation and retention rates.  

• Streamlining and cost effectiveness

In our Talent Trends report, only 11% of employers viewed AI-proficiency as an important skill. Yet with so many employees using AI in the roles, it stands to reason that companies simply don’t know what systems are being used – especially as so many can be accessed in some capacity for free and without an account.

Companies that train their workforce to use approved AI systems not only ensure AI-literacy but can also unlock that software’s full capacity with a paid account, allowing employees to do more, in a safer and more educated way. 

• Using clarity as a competitive advantage

With economic uncertainties being pervasive, skilled professionals are waiting for job opportunities that tick all the boxes before making the move from their current job.

That means that companies need to be transparent in what they offer and provide the right benefits to entice job applicants. It’s clear that professionals want the right salary, flexibility and inclusivity, but with 57% of Talent Trends respondents saying their current employers don’t offer sufficient GenAI training, organisations that do promote their training and development around AI will have a great competitive advantage in hiring the best. 

What AI training should cover

• AI Basics for Everyone

Courses in ethical and responsible AI use should be given to all employees. This will automatically reduce the risk of data misuse and potentially dangerous downloads.

• Approved list of approved AI tools  

Leave no doubts in what employees can and can’t use when it comes to AI. Will you use ChatGPT or Chat.AI for example? You may also want to work with IT to block the use of AI tools that aren’t approved to reduce risks and confusion.  

Once you have an approved list, more in-depth training can begin for employees that need it.

• Role specific applications

Marketing teams won’t need accounting AI software and Finance teams won’t need ChatGPT. Figuring out who needs what software will help you decide who needs training and in what.  

• Training and refresher courses

AI capabilities and integrations are moving fast; this means that current training courses could become outdated relatively quickly. When finding a course provider, ensure they update courses and determine whether the software you choose will flag updates and upgrades. 

• Help the human, not replace the human

AI fatigue is already setting in. People are noticing AI-generated images and text and prefer the ‘human’ element, especially when it comes to marketing. That’s why AI training isn’t just teaching task automation.  

Good AI training includes problem-solving, creative thinking and experimenting. Only then will companies bridge the soft-skills gap and benefit from AI software. 

• Show use cases

Not all employees will take to new software right away, it’s important for companies to show use cases, offer support, quell worries about AI replacing jobs, and communicate the mutual benefits that AI software can bring to the workplace. 

The future of competitiveness

The immense feedback that Michael Page has gathered from employees across the UK shows the need for clarity from organisations and what they should be offering to maintain their competitive advantage.  

You can download the Talent Trends report here to see the AI statistics, as well as the other factors that top talent is looking for this year.

If you’re looking to hire that top talent, then let us do the heavy lifting for you. Contact us today to fulfil your hiring needs.