In the midst of the rapidly-evolving conversation around ChatGPT, it’s hard to escape the ever-growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the digital workplace. 44’s Head of Digital, Alan Coates, explores how it’s time to turn away from the fear of the unknown – and learn to embrace the opportunity of AI for internal communications.

From automated processes to intelligent chatbots and easy-to-achieve content creation, AI has already proven its value. But what about its role in employee engagement? I felt it was time to explore AI with a positive hat on, and examine the potential benefits it can bring to delivering a more engaged workforce.

While the full extent of AI’s capabilities is yet to be designed and defined, it has undeniable promise for revolutionising the way organisations engage with their employees. AI-driven tools and platforms have the power to analyse vast amounts of data, uncover patterns, and generate valuable insights that can enhance the employee experience.

Personalised Experiences

AI can facilitate personalised employee experiences on a whole new level. By leveraging machine learning, organisations can gain a deeper understanding of individual preferences, strengths, and needs within their colleague-base. This enables tailored recommendations, learning pathways, and career development opportunities that resonate with employees, fostering a sense of belonging and investment in their professional growth.

Intelligent Assistance

With ChatGPT (as well as with other platforms) there’s an opportunity to connect to their API and install chatbots within our own internal platforms. The chatbot learns from a vast amount of information that’s already on the web, and it gets ‘smarter’ the more it’s used and the more users input data. But with AI-powered virtual assistants, employees can access real-time support and guidance, cutting down huge demands on the HR team. It’s like having a digital avatar that understands your queries, offers solutions, and assists with routine tasks. From answering HR-related questions to providing on-demand training resources, these intelligent assistants streamline processes, saving time and increasing efficiency for both employees and HR teams.

Data-Driven Insight

AI is built on data, and so excels at analysing vast datasets to derive real insight. By harnessing this power, we can uncover trends and patterns within our workforce, enabling data-driven decision-making. AI algorithms can identify factors influencing employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity, empowering organisations to proactively address concerns and optimise the workplace experience.

Enhanced Communication

Effective internal communication is crucial for fostering employee engagement. AI can help streamline and augment communication channels, enabling more personalised and engaging interactions. Intelligent chatbots can assist with onboarding, disseminate important information, and facilitate seamless collaboration, promoting transparent and efficient communication across teams and departments.

Final thoughts

While AI’s impact on employee engagement is still being defined, its potential is undeniable. By embracing AI-driven technologies, we can unlock new possibilities for employee experiences, creating personalised engagement, and driving productivity and wellbeing. However, it’s crucial to approach the use of it with care. There are huge ethical considerations, and we have to redefine again how technology complements – and doesn’t replace – the human factor that is inherent to successful employee engagement. With AI as a strategic ally, organisations can cultivate a culture of continuous growth, innovation, and unparalleled employee satisfaction.

We’ve picked out AI as one of our internal communications trends of 2023 – so keep an eye on our website in the coming weeks as we reveal more things we’re looking out for this year. And if you’d like to continue the conversation with us directly, feel free to drop us a line!