Ask HR: Should Employees Use AI Surreptitiously?

SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, answers HR questions each week for USA Today.

Do you have an HR or work-related question you’d like him to answer? Submit it here.

My job does not have a policy for the use of AI. I started regularly using generative AI in my work but have yet to tell my boss. Should I let him know that I use ChatGPT for work? —Caleb  

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP: Absolutely. It’s crucial to communicate with your boss about your use of generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT for work, even if there isn’t a formal artificial intelligence policy at your workplace. Here are a few points to consider when discussing this with your boss:

• Data security: Address the issue of data security upfront. Underscore that GenAI is a valuable tool, but you are mindful of the sensitivity of the information it processes. Assure your boss that you will refrain from entering proprietary or confidential information into ChatGPT and are willing to turn off chat history to uphold data security if requested.
• Misinformation verification: Acknowledge the potential for discrepancies in the information provided by AI tools. Emphasize your understanding of the significance of verifying any information obtained via GenAI to ensure accuracy. This commitment to fact-checking will help maintain the reliability of the work you produce.
• Overreliance on AI: Address the concern of overreliance on GenAI tools. Acknowledge that even though AI is a powerful aid in generating content, you are still cautious to keep it from overshadowing your own authentic voice. Share your approach to using AI as a starting point by incorporating your personal touch and avoiding a copy-and-paste mentality.
• Ethical considerations: Discuss the ethical considerations if you are using AI to influence decisions or products. Highlight your awareness of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in your work. Assure your boss that you approach AI as a supplementary tool and that your decisions align with the company’s ethical principles.
• Receptiveness to feedback: Express your willingness to receive feedback on your use of AI and inquire if there are specific tasks or areas to which your boss would like you to apply this technology. This proactive approach demonstrates your openness to collaborating and aligning AI usage with your company’s objectives.

Ultimately, AI should complement and elevate human intelligence and capability, not replace it. Ensuring your uniquely human intellect and intuition are involved in an operation aided by AI will deliver the best possible outcome. By addressing these considerations and having an open conversation with your boss, you not only ensure transparency in your work but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue around AI usage in your workplace. Your proactive approach could even help shape a future AI policy to suit your company’s needs and values. 

I’ve never fared well in a group interview. Do you have any tips for the group interview I have coming up? —Tara

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP: Navigating group interviews can be challenging, but you can make a positive impact with proper preparation and strategic approaches. Thorough preparation will boost your confidence during the interview.

Begin with a comprehensive examination of the organization. Understand its values, mission and recent achievements. A sound understanding of the company will help you connect with its goals.

Compile relevant examples from your experience, skills and education. Be ready to articulate how you’ve overcome challenges in past positions. Practicing with friends or mentors who can provide constructive feedback will bolster your confidence.

Demonstrate strong networking skills by introducing yourself to group members before the interview begins. Building rapport with the interviewers and fellow candidates can help alleviate initial anxiety and create a positive impression.

Group interviews often focus on teamwork and communication skills. Showcase your ability to collaborate by actively participating in group discussions. Emphasize instances in which you successfully worked as part of a team to resolve challenges and achieve common goals.

Involve the group in your responses by connecting with what other participants have shared. Acknowledge and agree with their points when it makes sense to do so. This demonstrates active listening skills and your ability to collaborate and build on others’ ideas.

Take note of what others are saying to avoid repetitive points. Look for opportunities to add a nuanced angle or expand on ideas to move the discussion forward. This showcases your ability to think critically and build on existing ideas.

Stay engaged throughout the group interview. Maintain eye contact, nod affirmatively and use nonverbal cues to show attentiveness. Avoid distractions, and actively participate in group activities or discussions.

Shape your responses to align with the organizational objectives and job role. Have a clear understanding of the value you can bring to the company culture and the team. Remember to be authentic and distinct, allowing your unique qualities to shine.

By implementing these tips and staying well prepared, you can confidently navigate your group interview and make a positive impression.