AI Safety: How to lead your team
The risk of ‘Shadow AI’ use and leaders should respond.
Microsoft's 2024 Work Trend Index finds 75% of employees say they're already using AI tools at work, yet only 28% of businesses have clear guidelines on the safe and appropriate use of AI. This growing disconnect between adoption and training poses risk to businesses.
The hidden risks of "Shadow AI"
Microsoft’s research reveals that employees aren't waiting for permission, they're already embracing AI to increase their productivity and streamline daily tasks. But often, they're doing it quietly, without management knowing.
The term "Shadow AI" describes the unsanctioned use of AI tools by employees without approval or oversight.
A Shadow AI scenario brings real consequences, such as:
Confidential information (company or customer data) can be unintentionally shared with publicly accessible AI models. Australia's privacy regulator is already investigating such breaches.
AI models can hallucinate, causing incorrect answers that affect realtime decision making.
Relying on AI to handle customer enquiries with generic responses, particularly on sensitive topics, can also lead to resentment and backlash from customers.
There are perks, but perils to using AI without proper guidance and protocols.
Employees want AI at work, leaders are looking for a safe path forward
Just like with cyber security, ignorance is no longer an option. Leaders must define and communicate a clear approach to using AI responsibly in their workplace.
Here are three tips for leaders go from Shadow AI to Shadow Safe (pardon the pun!):
Create your own guidelines
Clearly define which AI tools are approved, specify acceptable uses, and highlight what types of data must never enter AI platforms. To take it a step further, include an official AI policy as part of your IT Policy.
Train for performance
Employees need to understand both the benefits and the limitations of AI, including the risks of data exposure and misinformation. But don't just train for compliance... Train for performance. AI is a transformative technology that can make your team more productive and collaborative. Engage professionals for practical and engaging training that gets your team harnessing the full potential of AI for your business.
Appoint an AI Leader
Appoint a team member (or external partner) to be your company 'AI Champion'. They should stay informed about evolving AI risks, evaluate new tools, coordinate ongoing training, and answer employee questions about AI. This role should be accessible and approachable, someone employees trust and can easily consult. This role compliments, not replaces, the ultimate responsibility of directors and/or board members.
AI tools are reshaping the workplace right now. AI’s potential is transformative, but to harness it safely, teams must be prepared and informed on the appropriate use.
ShadowSafe have partnered with local AI experts to help our clients capture the full benefits of an AI-empowered workforce with humans at the centre, and to ensure that transition is done safely with the right training and frameworks.
Call our team on 07 3185 1777 or Enquire online
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