Artificial Intelligence? Polish Employees Still Skeptical
Only 27% of employees in Poland believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly improve their working conditions – this is lower than the European average of 34%. This data comes from a Great Place To Work® survey that covered over 26,000 employees in Europe.
Other analyses yield similar results. In a CBOS survey from June 2024, as many as 38% of Poles see more threats than benefits in AI. Only one in four respondents holds the opposite view. The main concern is the potential rise in unemployment, which could result from automation and technological development.
Europe Loses in the Global Race
Compared to other regions of the world, Europe fares poorly in terms of investment in AI – according to a 2023 European Parliament report, spending on artificial intelligence here is four times lower than in the US. However, the problem is not only financial. Europe also struggles with insufficient digitalization of companies, a lack of appropriate employee competencies, and a low level of trust in new technologies.
Distrust Towards Leaders
The Great Place To Work survey shows that employees who distrust their leaders are particularly skeptical of AI. In the face of rapid digitalization and technological changes, they are uncertain whether their companies will decide to develop their competencies or rather replace them with new, younger employees. Only 27% of employees in Europe (25% in Poland) declare that their organizations undertake educational activities related to AI. Even fewer, 20% in Poland and 25% in Europe, have participated in training on the use of artificial intelligence at work.
Leaders Should Take the Initiative
The Edelman Trust Barometer 2024 report shows that 8 out of 10 employees expect senior leaders to actively communicate issues regarding future competencies and the ethical use of technology. Employees hope that boards will not only manage changes but also take a responsible approach to the social challenges associated with AI.
How to Build Trust in New Technologies?
Fairness and Trust
An example for typical companies can be organizations from the 100 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe ranking. As many as 78% of their employees believe that promotions in their companies are fair, compared to 37% in average European workplaces (35% in Poland). Similarly, 70% of employees in these companies believe that their organizations fairly share the profits earned, while in Poland only 26% express such an opinion.
Research shows that fair treatment of employees fosters readiness to learn and openness to new technologies. Employees who believe in the fairness of promotions and have opportunities for professional development are 29–30 percentage points more likely to use AI tools.
Key Actions for Companies
Companies that want to effectively implement AI should ensure strong relationships with employees. Key actions include:
- regular audit of salaries and bonus systems,
- investing in talent mobility by enabling employees to take on new roles,
- transparent communication about the future of AI in the workplace.
An EY Polska survey shows that 59% of Polish enterprises see AI implementation as a priority. However, are the employees of these companies adequately prepared for the changes? Success depends on creating a fair work environment and an open conversation about the benefits and risks associated with artificial intelligence. This is the foundation for building trust and acceptance, which are essential in digital transformation.
Company Information
Great Place To Work® is an organization that researches and evaluates workplaces in Europe, covering over 26,000 employees. The company specializes in identifying companies that offer the best working conditions and build a culture based on trust and fairness.
