The Future is Now: AI, The Metaverse & The world of Work

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The growing popularity of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools is bringing the discussion about the future impacts of disruptive technology on the world of work to the forefront. At the same time, innovation to create more immersive employee experiences using virtual reality (VR) and the metaverse continues. As these technologies continue to advance, it would be a mistake to ignore the most important factor influencing future growth, which is adoption. Where do employers and employees see the greatest potential for improvement? How do workers feel about these technologies and where do they think they could add value?

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AI & VR Are Job Creators

In periods of rapid technological change, the impact on workers is often one of the first concerns. The good news: a majority of employers in the UK are optimistic that the tech won’t eliminate workers, but will actually create more jobs.²

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69%

of employers in the uk believe AI and VR technologies will create more jobs for their organisation

Less Familiarity but Openness for the Metaverse

Despite only 24% of respondents being very familiar with the metaverse, and 63% having no experience of using it in a professional context, there seems to be optimism for what the technology can bring to the world of work by way of connecting people. Most believe it will improve remote communication between colleagues.¹

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65%

agree with the statement: “The metaverse would improve ways that I can interact with my colleagues in other locations."

Job Seekers Want Automation With a Human Touch

Job seekers and employers agree that new technologies, like blockchain and AI, can help verify the qualifications of applicants to new roles. However, evidence suggests that there is still some way to go before AI is doing all the work.¹

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76%

are comfortable with AI use in the hiring process, but nearly half (46%) want a real person to review their application

Mixed Feelings About VR Interviews

While nearly 40% of workers say they would feel comfortable with a virtual job interview, 32% would still prefer an in-person interview. To find the right talent, employers will need to find the right balance for their hiring process.

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39%

of workers would be very comfortable having a VR job interview

More Comfortable with VR Training

Many workers say they would be very comfortable with VR training, but a third (32%) would still prefer in-person training and 10% say they would refuse VR training.¹

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46%

Most Workers say they would be very comfortable with VR training

Gamers Wanted

Recent research shows skills developed through e-sports and gaming can translate into valuable soft skills for employers such as creativity, critical thinking, reasoning, and resilience. Today, more than half of employers in the UK say they would consider gaming skills during the hiring process and 56% say they plan to in the future.²

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52%

of employers in the uk today say they would consider gaming skills during the hiring process

Keeping Pace in a Period of Accelerated Transformation

In the coming years, AI and the metaverse will have a profound impact on the world of work. It will influence how we work, where we work, how we engage with colleagues, how we create unique customer value, and how we find the differentiated talent we need to sustain innovation. Experis will continue to work with clients to find the talent and expertise to unlock the full potential of these technologies. We will also partner with our clients, consultants and other relevant stakeholders to support the highest ethical standards as adoption continues to grow.

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References:

1 Experis Survey: Combination of LinkedIn (n= 2,000) and online (n= 100) surveys of employers and candidates fielded in March-April 2023. 2 UK Employment Outlook Survey: In the latest edition of the ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey of 2,030 UK employers. Click here to learn more and view the data.

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About Experis

Experis is the global leader in professional resourcing and project services. Experis accelerates organisations' growth by attracting, assessing, and placing specialized expertise in IT to deliver in-demand talent for mission-critical positions and projects, enhancing the competitiveness of the organisations and people we serve. Experis is part of the ManpowerGroup® family of companies, which also includes Manpower and Talent Solutions.

For more information, visit www.experis.co.uk or follow us on LinkedIn.

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