In the era of rapid artificial intelligence (AI) development, a global transformation in the workplace is quietly unfolding. Jim Cavano, CEO of global technology services giant WWT, recently issued a powerful warning to business leaders during an interview with CNBC: under the wave of AI, do not "hoodwink" employees.
Cavano frankly pointed out that employees are not fools; they are well aware of the significant impact AI will have on their work. He emphasized that business leaders cannot turn a blind eye to reality, nor can they tell employees that "nothing will change," which he called "nonsense." Although there is no ready-made guide to cope with the impact of disruptive technologies like AI, the CEO's duty is to be as transparent and honest as possible with employees about the situation.
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As a tech tycoon with a net worth of $7 billion, Cavano's attitude towards AI is both pragmatic and optimistic. He admitted that while we cannot fully predict the impact of AI, everyone should learn about AI and related technologies and not fear it. He warned that trying to ignore or extinguish the "fire" of AI is a huge mistake. Instead, embracing AI, learning its applications, and maintaining a realistic attitude towards the future is the wise approach.
Cavano's views are echoed by other industry leaders. Clara Shih, head of AI at Salesforce, also stated that although some jobs may disappear due to AI, new technologies will also create entirely new job opportunities, just as the internet era did. She believes that AI will bring positive changes to the workplace, but this also means that the job descriptions for each position need to be redefined.
However, not all companies are actively promoting the positive aspects of AI. Swedish fintech company Klarna has openly stated that they are using AI technology to significantly reduce their workforce, planning to cut the number of employees from 5,000 to 2,000 next year, thereby increasing the salaries of the remaining employees.
Research shows that in the U.S. and Europe, about two-thirds of job positions are at some level at risk of AI automation, and generative AI could even replace up to a quarter of current jobs. These figures undoubtedly bring great uncertainty and anxiety to the workplace.
Facing this unprecedented workplace transformation, Cavano's advice is undoubtedly of great significance. He calls on business leaders to honestly and transparently face the challenges brought by AI and also encourages employees to actively learn and adapt to new technologies. In his view, although some positions may be affected, overall, AI will be a "booster" for work.