SHRM Research Shows Mixed Reactions to Impact of Workplace Automation and AI

New research shows half of U.S. workers think automation will help bandwidth, while nearly a quarter are concerned their job will be replaced by automation

May 4, 2023
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ALEXANDRIA, Va. New research from SHRM reveals that many think workplace automation and artificial intelligence will become even more prevalent in workplaces throughout the United States. Over one-third (35%) of U.S. workers believe their job will become more reliant on workplace automation in the next few years. 

The data was collected in March and April 2023 in response to the rising popularity and increased sophistication of AI tools, as well as the development of new state and federal regulations. 

 

Key findings include: 

  • Nearly 10% of U.S. workers experienced an impact from workplace automation. 
  • Nearly one-quarter (23%) of U.S. workers are concerned that their job will be replaced by workplace automation in the next five years. 
    • Female workers are less concerned that their jobs will be replaced by workplace automation and less convinced that their jobs will become more reliant on it than their male counterparts. 
  • Most employees (57%) are confident their organization could/can train them to properly use workplace automation most effectively at their job. 
  • Half of U.S. workers (50%) believe the automation of specific job tasks or duties would give them more time to focus on other areas of their work. 

 

HR professionals are at the intersection of AI and an increasingly complex environment as policymakers begin to regulate and address the use of AI in the workplace across the country. SHRM is leveraging these findings in conversations with policymakers to ensure the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace is heard.  

 

 

Methodology 

A sample of 521 U.S. workers was surveyed using the AmeriSpeak Omnibus, NRC at the University of Chicago’s probability-based panel. The survey was administered Thursday, March 30 to Monday, April 3, 2023. All data is weighted to reflect the U.S. adult population. 

 

About SHRM[pronounced "SHERM"] 
SHRM creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today's evolving workplaces. With nearly 325,000 members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 235 million workers and families globally. Learn more at SHRM.org. 


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