Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the labor landscape, with 32% of employees in Spain already using these tools in their daily work, according to a recent report. This figure reflects an increase of 14 percentage points compared to March 2023 and 9 points compared to December of the same year. AI is solidifying its role as a driver of change in both job creation and the optimization of work processes.
A Cross-Cutting Impact on the Labor Market
Since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, AI has transitioned from a technological promise to an everyday reality. Its adoption is transforming all productive sectors. According to an analysis by the International Monetary Fund, nearly 40% of global employment is exposed to AI-driven automation, a percentage that could reach 60% in advanced economies.
While its advancement presents risks, such as the potential elimination of certain roles, it also opens up opportunities. Professions such as machine learning engineer have seen exponential growth. In Spain, job postings for these profiles increased by 625% since 2019, according to the DigitalES report.
Mónica Pérez, Director of Communication and Studies at InfoJobs, emphasizes the importance of responsible use: “AI not only improves efficiency and productivity by reducing costs and automating repetitive tasks, but it should also be seen as a driver of new job opportunities. However, it is crucial to address ethical risks and ensure its proper use.”
AI as a Key to Transforming Work Approaches
The use of AI is also redefining how employees work. AI tools can increase productivity by up to 4.8 times in sectors with the highest technological exposure, according to the Global AI in Employment Barometer 2024, prepared by PwC.
A revealing statistic from the report is that the use of AI tools by employees has risen from 18% in March 2023 to 32% currently. However, challenges still persist: 68% of respondents reported not using AI tools, and of those, 46% claim to be unaware of them.
The Profile of an AI User
The study describes the typical AI user as a man (36%) under 35 years old (62% are between 16 and 34 years old) who works remotely (51%). By sectors, AI usage is particularly high in the quaternary and quinary sectors, such as technology, education, or research, where 40% of employees report using it.
In contrast, usage is significantly lower in traditional sectors, such as primary and secondary, and among workers aged over 35, where only 28% use these tools.
The Most Popular Tools: Machine Translation and Chatbots
Among the most used tools, machine translation leads with 62% of users. This is followed by chatbots, such as ChatGPT, at 37%, and voice assistants at 27%. However, applications related to programming and creative design still have low adoption rates, reaching only 6% and 5%, respectively.
Lack of Business Strategies: 29% of Users Utilize AI Without Their Company’s Knowledge
A worrying finding is that nearly a third (29%) of employees using AI claim that their companies are unaware that they do. This reflects a lack of strategic integration in some organizations, particularly in more traditional sectors.
In contrast, companies in the tech sector have a greater understanding of the impact of AI, as evidenced by the high levels of awareness and promotion in quaternary sectors.
A Transformative Tool with Ongoing Challenges
Artificial intelligence is marking a turning point in the labor market, from creating new jobs to improving productivity and efficiency. However, the report highlights the need for companies to adapt quickly, promoting training in these technologies and breaking down barriers in less tech-savvy sectors.
The disruption caused by AI is undeniable, but its implementation must be accompanied by an ethical and strategic approach that maximizes its benefits and minimizes its risks.