UK Tech Professionals Fear Job Loss Due to AI and Automation
A survey conducted by IT recruitment specialists Computer Futures and insight specialists IntelliSurvey has revealed that 52% of UK IT and Technology professionals are worried they will lose their job or contract due to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation.
The survey, titled ‘How the STEM World Evolves’, interviewed over 2,300 participants across five key markets including the UK, with 518 respondents from the UK – 213 of which work in the Technology and/or IT sector.
In response to the findings, Timo Lehne, CEO of SThree, Computer Futures’ parent company, said: “AI and automation are causing a lot of excitement and nervousness about their impact on the global workforce. Public discourse shows a seesaw of acceptance and anxiety. As these technologies become a part of everyday life, it is important to understand how professionals may feel threatened and what they can do about it.”
The survey also revealed that remote working continues to hold significant importance to UK IT and Tech professionals, with 80% stating that it is important that their next role allows them to work remotely. 83% of respondents also noted that it is important to them that their next role allows them to work when they want.
Pay transparency was also a priority, with 83% of Tech and IT workers noting that it is important to know that they are being paid fairly, and the same number stating that it is important to know how much they will earn before applying for a new job.
Purpose was also identified as a key motivating factor for UK tech workers, with 82% stating that personal purpose in their work was important, and 77% ranking their employer’s mission and values as important.
The survey findings suggest that UK IT and Technology professionals are anxious about how AI and automation will affect their job prospects. Remote working and pay transparency have also been identified as key priorities amongst respondents.
For more information, or targeted stats, please contact Computer Futures. To access the full global report, visit ‘How the STEM World Evolves’.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.