The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence has fueled growing fears about job loss and the future of work. However, new research from the University of Vaasa in Finland suggests AI may actually help employees become more engaged and adaptable when they view the technology as a useful partner rather than a threat.
In his doctoral dissertation, researcher Zhe Zhu explored how generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini are changing workplaces and influencing employees' experiences on the job. The research focused on both organizational decision making and the human side of AI adoption.
Many workers remain concerned about losing control or becoming less relevant as AI tools spread through the workplace. Yet Zhu's findings suggest that these concerns can sometimes motivate employees to learn new skills and use AI more effectively to strengthen their careers.
"As NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has pointed out, workers are not simply being replaced by AI, but by those who have learned to use GenAI to work more effectively. The workers that perceive GenAI more positively are also more engaged and adaptable in their careers," notes Zhu.
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