Accenture: GenAI boosts job satisfaction but excludes older workers

Workers are using generative AI to offload administrative tasks and find a better work life balance, according to a new Accenture study.

The study of 2,002 UK workers highlights the growing use of generative AI in the workplace, with four in ten workers using it at least once per week, and 10% of workers using it daily.

The report, conducted by research firm Censuswide, found that over two-thirds of those in the study using generative AI tools said it makes them feel more satisfied with their job, and almost all (92%) said they find the tools useful.

Plus, over a quarter reported feeling more productive, stating that it frees up time to do more quality work.

A recent McKinsey report found that generative AI can add between $2.6 trillion and $4.4 trillion worth of annual productivity globally.

Popular tasks the workers set generative AI to do include admin and operational processes (28%), research and data analysis (27%), and brainstorming (24%).

Younger generations are embracing the new technology the most, with almost two-thirds of Gen Z workers (18–24-year-olds) using generative AI tools at least once per week, compared with just over 20% of those aged 55 and older.

However, statistics showing that over half of Gen Z received training on how to use it, compared to only 17% of those over 55, may explain the gap in use.

Article: ChatGPT can help workers, rather than replacing them

Emma Kendrew, technology lead for Accenture in the UK, said: “The rise of generative AI is an opportunity for organisations to reinvent the tasks people do day-to-day.”

“Despite the technology being in its infancy, it is already starting to win over workers and proving useful, particularly those just starting their careers.”

Kendrew adds that the generational split means employers need to create a strategy to ensure older generations are not left behind, and that the entire workforce is best positioned to “thrive in this new era of AI.”

Accenture estimates that 40% of working hours will be impacted by generative AI.

When respondents were asked on how they would spend their time saved, most were likely to prioritise work-life balance (27%).

“It’s still very early days to fully understand how generative AI will change the future of work,” Kendrew added.

“We’re already seeing people experiment with it in a broad range of ways, from helping with mundane, process-driven tasks to more creative areas such as idea generation, as people look for more productive ways of working,” she continued.

“What is clear is that there will continue to be a strong appetite for AI from office workers, with many exploring it as an opportunity to find greater overall satisfaction in their working lives.”