TLDR: A recent study indicates a growing reliance among managers on artificial intelligence tools for critical staffing decisions, including hiring, promotions, raises, and even terminations. Despite a lack of formal training for many, AI is being integrated into daily operations, raising questions about ethical implementation and potential biases.
A new study from ResumeBuilder.com reveals a significant trend: a majority of U.S. managers are now leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to make crucial decisions regarding their workforce. The survey, which polled 1,342 managers with direct reports, found that 60% are using AI for personnel-related matters. This includes high-stakes actions such as determining raises (78%), promotions (77%), layoffs (66%), and terminations (64%).
Alarmingly, more than one in five managers reported frequently allowing AI to make final decisions without human oversight. This growing reliance comes despite the fact that two-thirds of managers using AI for people management have received no formal training in its use. Popular AI tools cited by managers include ChatGPT (53%), Microsoft Copilot (29%), and Google Gemini (16%).
The integration of AI into staffing decisions is a direct result of companies rapidly incorporating AI into their day-to-day operations and encouraging its use among employees. As Axios Business reporter Erica Pandey noted, “The guidance managers are getting from their CEOs over and over again, is that this technology is coming, and you better starting using it.”
However, experts caution about the risks associated with using generative AI for such critical decisions, particularly when users lack a deep understanding of the technology. Stacie Haller, Chief Career Advisor at ResumeBuilder.com, emphasized the importance of not losing the “people” in people management. She stated, “While AI can support data-driven insights, it lacks context, empathy, and judgment. AI outcomes reflect the data it’s given, which can be flawed or biased.” Haller stressed the responsibility of organizations to implement AI ethically to avoid legal liabilities, protect company culture, and maintain employee trust.
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- Workplace AI Adoption Surges as Employees Quietly Integrate Tools, Often Without Employer Knowledge
- Workplace AI Integration Fuels Rising Employee Mental Health Concerns and Job Insecurity
While AI offers potential for increased productivity and data-driven insights, the survey highlights a critical need for comprehensive training and robust ethical frameworks to ensure fair and unbiased outcomes in the workplace.
