Are Your Employees Ready For Automation And Ai?

WHY THIS MATTERS

AI is already being used to screen resumes, write emails, answer customer queries, detect fraud, and even make business forecasts. From small startups to global corporations, AI is streamlining tasks and boosting efficiency.

However, the success of automation doesn’t rely on the technology alone—it depends on how well people can use and collaborate with it.

Fun Fact: In 2023, a restaurant in South Korea introduced AI-powered robot waiters that could take orders and deliver food to tables. Customers loved the speed, but it was the human staff who kept the dining experience warm and welcoming. AI supported the service, but it didn’t replace the need for a human touch.

CURRENT GLOBAL LANDSCAPE

Here are some pressing global trends that make this topic urgent for every business:

• According to the World Economic Forum, 85 million jobs are expected to be displaced by automation by 2025—but 97 million new roles will emerge that are more adapted to this future.
• IBM’s 2024 Global Skills Survey found that 40% of the global workforce will need to reskill over the next three years because of AI-driven changes.
• In Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, many manufacturing and customer service roles face high risk of automation due to their repetitive nature.
• Big Tech companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are already rolling out internal AI training programs to upskill staff across departments—not just tech teams.

These numbers are not meant to create panic, but they do send a strong message: change is happening now. The companies that prepare their teams will thrive. Those that don’t, may fall behind.

SIGNS YOUR WORKFORCE MIGHT NOT BE READY

Many employers assume that their teams will naturally adapt to new technologies. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Here are warning signs to look out for:

• Resistance to new software or processes
• Fear of job loss whenever AI is mentioned
• Lack of awareness about how AI actually works
• Over-reliance on manual tasks and outdated systems
• Declining productivity due to tech overwhelm

If these sound familiar, it’s time to take action.

HOW EMPLOYEES CAN PREPARE

Luckily, preparing your workforce doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Here are some practical steps employees can take to stay relevant and confident in an AI-driven workplace:

• Learn about AI basics
  A simple understanding of what AI is—and what it isn’t—can reduce fear and build curiosity.
• Take online courses or attend workshops
  Free or low-cost platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Google AI offer accessible, bite-sized training.
• Explore productivity tools powered by AI
  Tools like ChatGPT, Notion AI, Grammarly, and Canva Magic Write can boost creativity and save time.
• Strengthen uniquely human skills
  Focus on creativity, critical thinking, empathy, and collaboration—skills machines can’t replicate.
• Adopt a growth mindset
  See technology as a partner, not a threat. Be open to learning and trying new methods.

Fun Fact: A global HR survey revealed that employees who use AI tools weekly report 23% higher productivity and 31% less stress compared to those who don’t. Learning AI isn’t just about performance—it supports well-being too.

WHAT EMPLOYERS SHOULD BE DOING

Businesses play a vital role in helping employees navigate the age of automation. Here’s what employers can do to foster an AI-ready workforce:

• Conduct a digital skills audit
  Find out where your teams are strong, and where they need support.
• Invest in training and upskilling programs
  Focus on short-term, practical sessions that apply to daily work—not just theory-heavy seminars.
• Introduce AI gradually
  Start with simple, easy-to-adopt tools before moving into more complex automation.
• Encourage cross-functional learning
  Let marketing learn from IT, and let HR explore data tools. AI requires collaboration across roles.
• Create a safe space to fail and learn
  Let your team know it’s okay not to be perfect at first. The goal is progress, not perfection.

THE HUMAN + AI EQUATION

AI is here to stay—but humans are still the heart of every business. The best outcomes will come from combining the power of automation with the empathy, creativity, and problem-solving that only people can offer.

The question isn’t whether AI will change the workplace. It’s how well we prepare people to grow with it.

So, are your employees ready?

If you’re unsure, now is the perfect time to start the conversation. Because preparing your team today means powering your business for tomorrow.