Over half of UK technology professionals (52%) agreed that they are worried about losing their job or contract due to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, according to a study conducted by Computer Futures' parent company SThree in collaboration with insight specialists IntelliSurvey.

The study also showed that 26% of technology professionals disagreed with this concern.

Timo Lehne, CEO, SThree stated “AI and automation are causing a lot of excitement and nervousness about their impact on the global workforce. Public discourse shows a seesaw of acceptance and anxiety. As these technologies become a part of everyday life, it is important to understand how professionals may feel threatened and what they can do about it.”

As well as an apprehension surrounding AI, remote working continues to hold significant importance to UK IT and tech professionals with 80% stating that it is important that their next role allows them to work remotely. On flexible working, 83% of respondents stated that it is important to them that their next role allow then to work when they want.

Pay remains important with pay transparency noted as a high priority for the majority (83%) of UK tech and IT workers, who are keen to see employer commitment to pay transparency & fairness. Job security also ranked highly with 87% of IT and tech professionals stating its importance.

Purpose is a key motivating factor for UK tech workers. The majority (82%) of respondents stated that personal purpose in their work was important, while more than two thirds (77%) ranked their employer’s mission and values as important.