With large language models like ChatGPT and Deepseek becoming part of everyday life, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly making its way into the workplace.

Based on Randstad Singapore's latest employer brand research report, released on Wednesday (June 25), employees in Singapore see AI as "an opportunity than a threat at work" and are "adapting well" to such technological advancements.

The talent agency surveyed 2,522 working adults in Singapore and found that the perception of AI's impact on work has remained largely positive, with 50 per cent of employees anticipating that AI will be of benefit to them professionally as compared to five per cent of naysayers.

That said, there is a considerable amount of respondents (41 per cent) who remain "neutral" about the subject.

Its adoption in the workplace has been progressing, though slowly. Regular usage of AI at work saw a modest two per cent rise compared to 2024.

A look at the data through a different metric might offer more insights into how AI is being used and perceived in Singapore.

Who's using AI at work?

Among three generations surveyed — Gen Zs (13 to 28 year olds), millennials (29 to 44 year olds) and Gen Xs (45 to 60 year-olds) — data from the survey indicate that millennials are the most hesitant about AI use at work.

Their regular use of AI at work (36 per cent) saw a considerable seven per cent drop from last year's numbers. 

Conversely, Gen Z and Gen X employees saw an increase in AI adoption, with regular usage rising by eight per cent and seven per cent respectively compared to 2024.

When it comes to the potential impact AI may have on their jobs in the near future, 44 per cent of Gen Z respondents felt that it will have a considerable impact on their job.

While 36 per cent noted that it would have little to no impact, nine per cent admitted that they've already experienced its consequences at the workplace.

While Randstad's study confirms AI adoption is slowly on the rise in Singapore, it is still a rather hushed topic in the workplace.

A 2024 study by team communication platform Slack revealed that 45 per cent of Singapore employees feel "uncomfortable" about admitting to managers that they use AI on the job.

Reasons for the unease include fears of being is seen as "incompetent", "lazy" or "cheating".

Work-life balance still key factor

Another key finding from the study is the correlation between work-life balance and employee motivation.

Among the list of factors listed, from job flexibility to manageable workload, strong work-life balance (41 per cent) emerged top as the key factor in keeping employees engaged and motivated.

At the other end of the spectrum, the want for greater benefits and higher salary (45 per cent) has led to employees feeling less motivated and engaged.

This could be down to misaligned expectations between employer and employee, according to the survey.

amierul@asiaone.com

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