By Guest contributor |
The rise of AI in the workplace has sparked debates about its impact on the way we work.
For example, some believe that AI is advancing so quickly that communication delays between colleagues are now the biggest bottleneck when trying to get work done, meaning that in-person collaboration is essential for problem-solving and productivity. With big businesses mandating the return to the office as a result, many are asking if this could be the end for flexible working.
These concerns are not substantiated though. In fact, evidence shows that while fully remote roles are declining, hybrid work is still thriving. According to Jabra’s Mind the Gap report, nearly 80 per cent of workers say they are currently in jobs that offer them the freedom to choose their daily workplace location. Not only does this suggest that organisations are continuing to offer the autonomy to decide when to go to the office, but also that employers realise flexibility is essential to meet the needs of the modern worker.
The research also found a flexible work location is ranked as the most important consideration for employees, over three times more than salary. In fact, it’s so important that workers are willing to look elsewhere if they are unable to achieve the right balance. Meanwhile, more than one-third of workers are planning to switch jobs within a year, and 74 per cent of Generation Z believe changing jobs is a driver for career development. It’s clear that employees, particularly the younger generations, have one foot out the door and will not hesitate to change jobs if their current employer doesn’t meet their needs.
So, what impact is AI having and how can it drive positive change?
Firstly, the technology could become the ultimate enabler of this growing demand for autonomy, with the report suggesting that workers want to use the time saved by AI to prioritise self-care, family and flexible schedules. This suggests AI isn’t killing remote work like some fear but instead redefining the way we work entirely.
However, the challenge for businesses right now is figuring out how to tap into AI’s potential and create hybrid environments where employees can connect, collaborate and thrive. It is a critical challenge too, as providing employees with this environment will not only create happier, more productive teams, but a more successful business.
Jabra’s research shows that 80 per cent of leaders are already willing to delegate tasks to, or collaborate with, AI. Generative AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot are making a significant impact in this space and transforming how we manage tasks such as real-time transcription and meeting summaries.
However, AI tools are only as good as the source material they are provided with. Voice interaction, for example, is four times faster than typing and is one way to maximise AI’s full potential and boost productivity. However, if the employee is using a low-quality microphone, the AI won’t be able to pick up exactly what is being said which could lead to inaccuracies in the results.
Jabra’s professional Evolve2 and Engage headsets come with powerful microphones that cancel surrounding noise and enhance voice clarity, delivering 97 per cent transcription accuracy with AI tools. This is a stark contrast compared to standard consumer earbuds, which average only 64 per cent accuracy, and drop as low as seven per cent in noisy environments.
Businesses must carefully evaluate the benefits that AI can offer and actively involve their employees in this journey. Those who listen and adapt will not only keep up but also lead the way, enhancing productivity and building a more connected and capable workforce.
Nigel Dunn is vice president and managing director for EMEA North at Jabra
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