# Is Your Manager Aware That You’re Using Generative AI at Work?
Generative AI is not just a concept for the future anymore—it has arrived and is reshaping the dynamics within workplaces. From optimizing processes to boosting efficiency, tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini are becoming essential for a large number of employees. However, this swift integration raises an important question: Is your manager aware that you’re utilizing Generative AI on the job?
## The Escalating Workload Dilemma
The increase in workloads is partly fueling the rise of Generative AI. A recent [Wrike report](https://www.wrike.com/2024-impactful-work-report/) indicated that American workers have experienced a 31% rise in their workloads over the past year, with leaders projecting an even steeper 46% increase for their teams. This rise in demands is especially acute in sectors such as technology and finance, where layoffs have shifted the burden of extra tasks onto the remaining employees.
The same report notes that U.S. employees waste an average of 40.8 hours each year due to inefficiencies at work. Companies estimate that nearly 1.5 days per week are consumed by unnecessary activities, costing them over $15,000 per employee annually. In such a demanding atmosphere, it’s not surprising that workers are utilizing Generative AI to keep up.
## BYOAI: Bringing Your Own AI to the Workplace
As workloads rise, numerous employees are proactively utilizing Generative AI tools without official permission. These tools are being employed for various tasks, including:
– Conducting research and summarizing findings.
– Creating outlines for documents.
– Analyzing and interpreting data.
– Writing meeting notes or reports.
– Composing emails.
A [Thomson Reuters report](https://www.thomsonreuters.com/en/c/future-of-professionals.html) discovered that knowledge workers anticipate AI will save them an average of four hours each week, which is akin to adding an additional team member for every 10 employees. By the decade’s end, AI tools could help workers save up to 12 hours weekly.
However, this unregulated adoption of AI carries risks, such as the possible mismanagement of proprietary or confidential data. For example, Samsung prohibited the use of Generative AI tools after employees employed them to troubleshoot proprietary code and summarize confidential meeting materials. Companies like Verizon, Citigroup, and Deutsche Bank have also limited the use of tools like ChatGPT due to concerns over data privacy.
## The Gap Between Employees and Management
In spite of the evident advantages offered by Generative AI, there exists a substantial divide between employees and management regarding AI adoption. A [report from Asana](https://asana.com/resources/state-of-ai-work) found that only 31% of companies have established a formal AI strategy. This absence of direction has created a “dangerous divide” between executives and frontline workers, resulting in varying levels of enthusiasm, adoption, and perceived benefits.
Moreover, a [Wiley Workplace Intelligence report](https://www.everythingdisc.com/blogs/the-human-side-of-artificial-intelligence) indicated that 96% of employees feel stressed about changes in the workplace brought about by AI. While 40% find it challenging to understand how to incorporate AI into their responsibilities, 75% lack confidence in effectively using these tools. To make matters worse, only 34% of managers believe they are prepared to facilitate the integration of AI within their teams.
## The Necessity for Clear AI Policies
To close this gap, organizations need to establish transparent policies and guidelines governing AI usage. These should encompass:
1. **Specified Use Cases**: Define when, where, and how Generative AI tools can be utilized.
2. **Data Privacy Protocols**: Offer training on ensuring sensitive information is not inadvertently disclosed to AI models.
3. **Open Communication**: Keep employees updated about how AI will be utilized and its implications for their roles.
Dr. Tracey Carney, a researcher at Wiley, stresses the significance of effective change management. “It’s essential for companies to equip employees—especially managers—with the information necessary to comprehend what is happening and how to navigate it,” she states. This involves both the implementation of AI tools and guiding employees through the accompanying changes.
## The Productivity Enhancement
When properly executed, Generative AI can greatly boost productivity. As reported by Asana, employees who engage with AI on a daily basis report an increase in productivity by 89%. This highlights the importance of providing workers with the right tools and training to maximize AI’s advantages.
## Is It Time to Consider a Change?
If your company is falling behind in its approach to Generative AI, it may be worthwhile to seek out positions at firms with a more progressive mindset. Organizations that have established clear AI strategies, comprehensive training programs, and resources for advanced tools are better equipped to support their workforce and foster innovation.
Ready for a transition? Explore the [BGR Job Board](https://jobs.bgr.com/?source)
