Introduction
As the initial excitement surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) fades, many employers are adjusting their messaging about AI initiatives. Recent data shows a troubling trend in how companies communicate their use of AI amid rising skepticism among employees.
Shifting Terminology
According to a report from Seismic, nearly 48% of employers are now avoiding the term “AI” in official communications, even when AI tools are in use. This report is based on responses from over 2,000 managers in sales, marketing, and customer service.
Understanding the Skepticism
The report reveals that more than 70% of respondents express significant skepticism about AI’s effectiveness in their industries. Moreover, 60% note that the term “AI” carries a stigma that complicates efforts to garner support for AI initiatives.
Paige O’Neill, Chief Marketing Officer at Seismic, commented, ‘They may not want to draw too much attention to their usage of it, because they don’t want to invite some of these questions.’ This sentiment highlights an ongoing disconnect between organizational leadership and the workforce regarding AI integration.
Workplace Fatigue with AI
Another factor contributing to this shift is what some experts call “AI fatigue.” Half of the business leaders surveyed reported declining enthusiasm for AI initiatives across their companies, as revealed in the EY AI Pulse Survey released recently.
As a result, companies are leaning towards phrases like “enhancing technology investments” and “increasing productivity,” instead of directly mentioning AI.
Broadening Perspectives
Analysts suggest that the survey’s focus on sales, marketing, and customer service may present a more acute picture than in a broader context. Emily Rose McRae, a Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, pointed out that, ‘this is probably more extreme than you would see if you looked in a more diverse subset.’ She also noted the shift from a peak of inflated expectations about AI to what is now a trough of disillusionment.
Error in Adoption
While corporate enthusiasm for AI has waned, employees remain uncertain about its potential impact. A survey from Upwork found that, although 96% of executives anticipate productivity gains from AI, around 40% of employees are unsure of how this could occur.
The Rise of Generative AI
Moreover, a significant majority of workers using generative AI tools reported that these have added to their workloads, leaving them to spend time reviewing and moderating AI-generated content. There is further demand for better training from employers to help staff effectively navigate these tools.
Future Outlook
Despite the current caution around AI language and its implementation, some experts believe that as AI becomes more integrated into everyday workflows, its mention may no longer be necessary. O’Neill explained, ‘AI at a certain point becomes a little bit like talking about SaaS or cloud.’ As acceptance increases, the use of AI may simply become an assumed part of business operations.
