Jim Kavanaugh, CEO of World Wide Technology (WWT), has urged corporate leaders to be transparent about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce. He emphasized that employees are too knowledgeable to believe that AI won’t lead to significant changes, including job losses.
According to Kavanaugh, it is important for companies to be upfront about the inevitable shifts that AI will bring to the workplace and not try to downplay the effects of this technology.
Kavanaugh pointed out that business leaders need to communicate honestly with their employees during times of major disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and AI’s rise.
He advocates for embracing AI and learning about its potential, rather than fearing it because the technology will undoubtedly change how work is done. While no one can predict the exact impact AI will have on jobs, he stresses the importance of being proactive and adaptive to these changes.
WWT CEO Jim Kavanaugh Calls for Transparency on AI’s Impact, Urges Leaders to Adapt
Despite the uncertainty, Kavanaugh is optimistic about AI’s potential to improve productivity. While he acknowledges that some jobs will be disrupted, he believes that AI will largely act as an enhancer and accelerator of work. This perspective aligns with his general optimism toward technological advancements, which he sees as opportunities for growth and innovation in the business world.
Similarly, Clara Shih, head of AI at Salesforce, recognizes that while some jobs will disappear due to AI, many new ones will be created, as has been the case with previous technological advancements.
Shih highlights that AI will likely reshape job descriptions rather than eliminate entire roles, requiring workers to adapt their skills to new demands brought on by AI. She views AI as a positive force in the workforce, driving the need for updated skill sets.
Companies are already witnessing the tangible benefits of AI in reducing workforce numbers while improving productivity. For example, Klarna, a Swedish fintech company, has used AI to significantly cut its workforce and plans to continue this trend, showcasing the role AI can play in streamlining operations.
While these developments present challenges for job security, they also point to the broader potential of AI to reshape industries and create new opportunities.
