Over 6 in 10 jobseekers doubt AI's benefits at work: poll

More than six in 10 jobseekers in the United States are doubtful over the benefits that AI can provide once implemented at work, according to a new report from Resume Genius.

The report, which surveyed 1,000 jobseekers, found that they don't think AI will reduce their workload (62%) nor boost job performance (69%).

"The scepticism we're seeing reflects how workers experience AI today — often as a tool that seems powerful at first, but on closer inspection requires manual effort to use effectively," said Geoffrey Scott, senior hiring manager at Resume Genius, in a statement.

According to the report, Boomers are more likely to doubt AI's capability to reduce their workload (68%) than Gen Zs (61%) or Millennials (61%).

"Although we're still not sure how AI will continue to reshape the workplace, Gen Z and Millennials are more optimistic about its potential — likely seeing it as an unavoidable technology where they either figure it out or get left behind," Scott said.

What is AI for?

Amid doubts on AI's usefulness in the workplace, Eva Chan, lead career expert at Resume Genius, pointed out that the technology's full potential is "still a work in progress."

"Workers can't depend entirely on AI, especially as industries are still learning how to use it effectively while considering what long-term implications it'll have on their business," Chan said in a statement.

"Workers often spend extra time supervising and fixing AI output, so for now, it's more of a helpful tool than a standalone solution."

But as organisations figure out how to effectively use AI tools at work, Scott advised jobseekers to familiarise themselves with the technology.

"It's here to stay, and the best approach for jobseekers is to at least understand it, if not dive in headfirst and become familiar with how to use AI tools," he said.

Chan added that employees should also develop their soft skills, such as communication, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

"Develop your soft skills by seeking mentorship, participating in team projects, and practising active listening and conflict resolution in workplace scenarios. You'll also need to showcase these abilities during interviews or through real-world examples to prove you've successfully navigated challenges or contributed to a team's success," she said.