Artificial intelligence adoption is rising in Singapore, with 52% of workers in the country using the technology at work, according to Slack’s New Workforce Index.
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The use of artificial intelligence continues to grow across industries around the world, but there is still some confusion about how to properly use the technology at work.
According to statistics, 52% of employees in Singapore use artificial intelligence at work Slack’s Workforce IndexThe organization surveyed more than 17,000 workers in 15 countries in August, including 1,008 in Singapore.
The domestic demand for artificial intelligence talents continues to grow. According to statistics, the city-state saw a 4.6-fold increase in job postings related to generative artificial intelligence between September 2023 and September 2024 indeed.
Despite a surge in demand for artificial intelligence talent in Singapore, 45% of employees in the country say they feel uncomfortable admitting to their managers that they are using the technology to complete work tasks.
For those who say they feel this way, the top reasons include fear of being seen as “incompetent,” “lazy,” or a “cheat,” according to Slack’s report.
“Workers are excited about AI, but they’re unsure how to use it in the workplace, and that uncertainty is hindering broader adoption of AI,” Christina Janzer, senior vice president of research and analytics at Slack, told CNBC Make It .
Today, workers bear too much of the burden of researching artificial intelligence. It’s important that leaders not only train employees to use AI, but also encourage employees to openly discuss and experiment with AI.
Christina Genzel
Senior Vice President of Research and Analytics at Slack
“Today, too much of the burden is placed on workers to understand AI,” said Janzer. “It’s important that leaders not only train workers to use AI, but also encourage employees to openly discuss and experiment with AI.”
Organizations should also create the necessary time and space for such experimentation, she said, and encourage employees to share what they learn with colleagues for inspiration. They can also lead by example and publicly demonstrate how they use the technology in their own work.
Additionally, Janzer told CNBC Make It that employers should provide guidance on which AI tools are “approved and trusted” for use in their businesses and what tasks those tools can be used for.
“Without clear guidance, employees are confused about when it is socially and professionally acceptable to use artificial intelligence at work, and they keep their use confidential,” Slack’s report said.
Despite the uncertainty, employees in Singapore are still looking to improve their AI skills. In fact, the report states that 88% of people “feel an urgent need to become experts in artificial intelligence.” However, the majority (63%) of workers in the country spent less than five hours total learning how to use artificial intelligence.
Ultimately, Slack’s research suggests, “employers will need to address training gaps and clarify AI guidelines, as existing employees and new professionals entering the workforce will be drawn to more supportive workplaces.”
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