In a recent survey conducted by Checkr, an employment screening company, it has been revealed that the majority of American workers are worried about the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, specifically expressing concerns about potential pay cuts. The survey, conducted via the Pollfish platform, took place between April 27th and 28th, 2023, and involved a sample of 3,000 American employees from various generations, including Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, each represented in equal proportions.
The results of the survey indicated that a staggering 79% of American workers expressed fear or uncertainty regarding the possibility of AI leading to a reduction in their wages. Of particular note, 82% of Millennials shared this worry, while the concern was similarly reflected among 76% of Gen Z employees and other generational groups.
Furthermore, the survey shed light on the fact that a significant 78% of American workers nationwide remain uncertain about whether AI will ultimately result in wage cuts. This uncertainty is further compounded by the fact that 74% of respondents believe that the integration of AI in the workplace could potentially lead to job losses, with a large majority (74%) anticipating AI-related layoffs within the next six months to two years.
While fears of job loss due to AI persist, it is worth noting that American workers also harbor a sense of optimism about the benefits of AI in alleviating their workload. More than half of the employees surveyed expressed a willingness to accept a reduction in pay if it meant they could work only four days a week, with a staggering 86% indicating their readiness to make this trade-off. Similarly, 86% of respondents stated that they would be willing to accept a pay cut if AI could help them complete their work more efficiently.
The survey results highlight the mixed emotions among American workers when it comes to the integration of AI in the workplace. While concerns about potential salary reductions and job losses persist, there is also a recognition of the potential benefits of AI in terms of work-life balance and increased productivity. As the adoption of AI continues to shape the future of work, it remains essential for organizations to address these concerns and ensure transparent communication regarding the impact and potential benefits of AI technologies.