UK businesses are unprepared for the rise of AI in the workplace, according to a poll of over 2,000 senior HR professionals carried out by global talent acquisition and management specialist Alexander Mann Solutions.

The study found that 23% of senior HR professionals believe that businesses are preparing the next generation of professionals for the rise of AI, despite the fact that two thirds (69%) forecast that it is very or somewhat likely that we will see AI humanoids in the workplace by 2030.

Meanwhile, when asked what skills businesses should be developing to enhance the potential of AI, 36% cited adaptability to change, while 22% said creative skills were most important with a similar number (18%) believing IT and technical skills should be prioritised.

“The potential of any intelligent software is limited by the human talent responsible for commissioning, implementing and managing it,” Laurie Padua, Director of Technology and Operations Consulting, said. “The successful implementation of effective systems relies on strong strategy and delivery. With this in mind, it is crucial that HR teams put in place strategic workforce plans to ensure that they not only have access to requisite technical skills, but also focus on investing in talent with adaptable core competencies which are currently difficult to recreate in machines, such as creativity and communication skills.”   

“HR strategists must become accustomed to upskilling existing teams and planning future workforces with robots in mind - but there will be no cliff-edge of job losses as AI replaces human workers,” Padua said. “Instead, the roles of real-life employees will develop so that we will work alongside robots to become more efficient and productive, and innately human traits will become more valuable than ever before.”

Alexander Mann pointed to, General Electric as an example as the company is reportedly building a ‘robotic workforce’ as part of its shift toward high-tech business. “To manage the transition, scientists are being redeployed to the company’s machine-learning lab where they are tasked with helping to make cloud-hosted software models of GE’s existing machines that can be used to save money and improve safety for its customers long-term,” Padua said.