Ai,while useful in many cases, can lead to burnout and employees may be feeling the heat.
For the most part, artificial intelligence (AI) has brought new meaning to workplace productivity. Used for a range of tasks from simple admin and research, to complex analytics and data composition, it can free up time in a world that has become incredibly noisy.
But, there are those who feel as though AI has become too integrated into the workplace and tasks that were once straightforward and human-based, are now being delegated to an AI agent, which lacks the benefit of critical thought.
Moreover, despite being introduced to simplify work, research shows that employees are beginning to feel inundated with new technologies and burned out by the pressure to keep on top of increasing automation. So, what are some of the signs of a workforce experiencing AI fatigue?
More work, less time
A key indicator that the workplace is becoming weary of the AI wave is an increase in resistance to new technologies, more specifically the training that it takes to build up an understanding and mastery of organisational advancements. People naturally want to take advantage of learning opportunities that grow their careers, however, upskilling has to be strategic, so the experience is a positive one.
If employees are not as excited to engage with organisational learning as they used to be, it could be a sign that they are overwhelmed by the increasing expectations brought about by a surplus of AI tech, policies and protocols. And it could be time to dial back on the AI integration.
Worry and productivity
In a workplace that has too much AI, increased anxiety and stress, particularly around job security and productivity is a sure sign that fatigue is taking root. There is the very legitimate concern that AI is becoming advanced to the point that it could replace certain roles. This can leave people fearful that they are becoming surplus to requirements.
And when personal productivity lowers, morale can follow, leading to a workforce that lacks confidence and is losing trust in upper management and wider organisational objectives.
It’s not just in your head
AI overload isn’t just an issue that can affect an employee emotionally, research also suggests it could lead to an uptick in physical ailments too. For example, tension headaches and eyestrain as a result of additional screentime, gastrointestinal issues caused by anxiety or stress, and the general feeling of ‘body heaviness’ as a result of a disrupted sleep pattern.
Employees can be unwell in the workplace for all manner of reasons, however, if you notice an increase in symptoms and your organisation has accelerated its adoption of AI, it could well be linked. As an employee, it can be helpful to provide your company with honest feedback about the efficacy of AI tools, as well as any accommodations that could be made to reduce the risk of emotional or physical stress.
Putting out the fire
Burnout is not uncommon. Even in a job or industry that you love, when rapid change starts to transform the landscape that you had become used to, it can be disconcerting and make you wonder what the future holds in terms of job security or even just your own ability to carry on doing the work the way you always have.
But change can be positive. As long as the person or people spearheading it are transparent and willing to engage in conversations that allow for the sharing of fears, concerns and ideas that will better enable everyone to navigate tumultuous waters.
When it comes to the implementation of AI, so many companies are racing to integrate it into their day-to-day operations, but it can be helpful to stop and take stock of the impact it is having, not just on its ability to automate and modernise, but how it can affect the employees.
Afterall, they are the ones expected to run, monitor and utilise these systems. So, shouldn’t companies ensure that they aren’t creating burnout in their people by prioritising their machinery?
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