Public Trust in Businesses' Responsible AI Usage at an All-Time Low
In the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), understanding public sentiment is crucial for businesses. The second annual Bentley-Gallup survey, conducted among 5,458 Americans, has unveiled significant findings about public trust in how companies use AI.
Low Trust in Responsible AI Usage
The most striking discovery from the survey is that a staggering 79% of Americans do not trust companies to use AI responsibly. This widespread skepticism reflects growing concerns about the reckless deployment of AI technologies in various industries.
Opportunity for Responsible Branding
PR executives should take note that the public's awareness of AI risks presents an opportunity. According to Noah Giansiracusa, an Associate Professor of Mathematics and Data Science at Bentley University, this revelation offers a chance for businesses to differentiate themselves by associating their brand with responsible AI usage. This aligns with the increasing emphasis on corporate social responsibility and ethical practices in the modern business landscape.
AI's Potential and Skepticism
While acknowledging the enormous potential of AI, the survey indicates that Americans remain skeptical about whether businesses will harness AI for the greater good. As Mareike Möhlmann, an Assistant Professor of Information and Process Management at Bentley University, points out, the jury is still out on whether businesses will use AI for benevolent purposes or not. This skepticism underscores the need for companies to proactively address these concerns and communicate their ethical AI practices.
AI Impact on Jobs
Another noteworthy finding reveals that 75% of Americans believe AI will lead to a reduction in jobs. This sentiment reflects concerns about automation and job displacement, which can impact public perception of companies using AI for cost-saving purposes.
The Bentley-Gallup survey findings hold significant implications for PR executive leadership:
Trust-Building is Paramount: Building and maintaining public trust should be a top priority for PR executives. Companies must be transparent about their AI practices, highlighting their commitment to responsible AI usage, ethical data handling, and job creation alongside automation.
Differentiation Through Responsibility: PR leaders can guide companies in leveraging this opportunity to distinguish themselves from competitors. Brands can establish themselves as leaders in responsible AI adoption by actively promoting their ethical AI strategies and engaging in open dialogue with the public.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and regulatory bodies, is crucial. PR professionals should facilitate communication channels that allow for feedback, concerns, and suggestions related to AI usage, helping companies adapt and address public apprehensions.
Education and Advocacy: PR leadership should advocate for AI education, both internally and externally. This includes educating employees on AI's impact on their roles and responsibilities and actively participating in public discussions on AI ethics.
Preparedness for Regulatory Changes: As public concerns about AI grow, regulatory changes are likely. PR executives should ensure that their organizations are prepared to adapt to evolving regulations and demonstrate compliance.
In conclusion, the Bentley-Gallup survey highlights the pressing need for PR leadership in shaping public perception regarding AI usage. Businesses have an opportunity to build trust, differentiate themselves, and demonstrate their commitment to responsible AI adoption, ultimately influencing their success in the age of AI.
