“AI is already being used to complete vital tasks in workplaces across a range of industries, but it could be used to boost productivity for the workforce generally,” says Hays Australia and New Zealand managing director Nick Deligiannis.

AI could contribute US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, Hays commented, with US$6.6 trillion of this figure coming from increased productivity. These gains are expected to come from the automation of processes, coupled with AI technologies augmenting their existing labour force, the firm noted.

“HR will need to support the implementation of AI and ensure it is used responsibly while alleviating the perceived threat that many workers see it posing to their livelihood,” said Mr Deligiannis.

“Part of this will involve talking about the rationale behind it and explaining how it can help individuals perform their job, and potentially develop their career through learning new skills.”

IBM Global Business Services marketing leader Owen Tebbutt agreed, saying: “The more open an organisation can be about why and where it’s using these technologies, the less concerned employees will be.”

“It’s got to be based around this idea of empowerment. It’s not there to replace jobs but to make your job more impactful, enjoyable and productive. HR needs to be very positive about some of the things this technology can do to make people more productive, happy and fulfilled.”

In the longer term, there can be little doubt that AI will play a more significant role in how organisations are set up and run in the coming years, he continued, noting that the choice is quite stark for businesses: they can either drown in data or find a way to benefit clients and the workforce.

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The latter is possible, Hays responded, so long as employers are open about the introduction of AI and offer training to employees where needed.

“In this way, AI will ultimately create a more engaged and productive workforce,” the recruiting firm said.