When we think about all the amazing things that technology can do, it’s not strange to wonder if there may come a day when humans may be replaced by machines in some workplaces.
Today, a lot of people are asking this very question due to the meteoric rise of artificial intelligence (AI). There have even been strikes in various industries, most recently the entertainment industry, because workers are rightfully concerned about what their role in the workplace might be alongside expanding technology.
But rather than viewing AI as a job-snatching adversary, perhaps we should regard it as a collaborative partner. For example, let’s consider an email writing AI: Instead of taking over an office role, it can streamline our day-to-day communications, enabling us to tackle more productive tasks.
What Can AI Do for Workers?
To be fair, AI is all about processing vast amounts of information at speeds that are humanly impossible and then producing actionable insights or completing tasks based on what it’s learned. For workers, the benefits of using AI include:
● Automating repetitive tasks – Many jobs have routine, repetitive tasks, like answering emails or updating spreadsheets. AI can handle these with ease, freeing you up to engage in more complex tasks.
● Personalizing the customer experience – In sectors like customer service, marketing, and sales, AI can tailor interactions with specific customers based on purchase history, account information, and more, leading to better satisfaction.
● Provide insightful analytics – Some applications can track trends, create reports, and assist with organization so that you can more clearly see the bigger picture.
Examples of AI Tools That Can Boost Productivity
Here are a few examples of AI tools that you can start using right now (if you haven’t already!)
Email Assistance Platforms
Using GPT technology, email communication generators can read, understand, and reply to many of the routine emails you receive every day. Using an email assistant like this can reduce the time you spend answering emails by up to 50%.
Chatbots
Customer service can be enhanced through chatbots that can handle frequently asked questions, complaints, or feedback. They can operate 24 hours a day, allowing human agents the time to deal with more complex or complicated issues.
Virtual Assistants
Tools like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri can help schedule meetings, set reminders, and even control smart devices, allowing you to multitask and concentrate on more important tasks.
How to Get Started with AI
Harnessing the power of AI might seem daunting, but in most cases, it really isn’t.
The first thing to do is identify a need. Think about what part of your job could benefit from automation. Do you answer the same kinds of emails all the time? Are you responsible for scheduling? Would better data crunch save you time?
Once you’ve found a need, look for a simple solution. Though you may be eager, don’t dive headfirst in total automation. Instead, solve one problem at a time. If it’s your inbox that is out of control, improve your email experience with an AI intelligent assistant.
After choosing an application, take the time to truly understand it. This is usually a two-way street as you need to learn how to use the tool, and it needs to learn how you and your workplace operate.
Conclusion
The birth of AI doesn’t have to lead to the demise of the human worker. Instead, we should look at these tools as valuable allies. As a teammate, they can help us accomplish more so we can do our jobs better.