E-learning and LMS blog articles

A 2023 LinkedIn survey found that 93% of organisations are concerned about employee retention, while a survey shared by Gallup found that 51% of employees are disengaged with work and their employers. These findings highlight the need for employers to reshape the working experience by developing new strategies that boost these critical business factors. And, to maximise results they should take advantage of the latest tools and technology – such as AI.

The growing prevalence of AI in the working world has left many examining its potential to enhance a number of business functions. Could this include boosting employee engagement and retention? Let’s explore.

Reducing employee burnout with AI

According to data shared by Forbes, the most popular uses for AI in 2024 include: crafting an email (31%), prepping for a job interview (30%), writing a social media post (25%), and summarising complex or lengthy copy (19%). What these figures tell us about the role AI is set to play in the working world for years to come, is the ability to automate or speed up time-consuming, manual tasks. So how does this help with boosting employee engagement and retention?

76% of employees experience burnout and a heavy workload is one of the top causes of this. To tackle burnout, employees can use AI tools to reduce administrative burdens and boost productivity, giving them the breathing space to instead focus on tasks they enjoy, resulting in higher engagement levels and job satisfaction.

AI tools can also help reduce burnout for team leaders and managers by freeing up their busy schedules. Many employees in this position experience burnout from carrying out routine tasks whilst simultaneously needing to be ‘on call’ and readily available to any team members in need of answers and support.

By using AI chatbots that have been configured to serve specific business needs, employees can use this as a first step in finding the solution to any low-level problems and questions, rather than going straight to their manager or team leader. As a result, managers can spend more time supporting staff with complex issues that require leadership input.

Analysing employee engagement with AI

According to a survey, only 16% of companies use technology to monitor employee engagement. While reporting tools in platforms such as our Totara Learn LMS are excellent for measuring learner engagement with training activities, employers can also use AI tools to measure employee engagement across a broader range of day-to-day activities.

Managers can input employee activity data into AI tools to identify patterns and trends that highlight employee engagement levels with areas such as group work contributions. With this information, managers can be more proactive in tackling poor engagement and adjust engagement strategies for individual employees.

Retaining top talent with AI training

Despite the apparent benefits of using AI in the workplace, 35% of workers worry about having the technical skills to actually use AI effectively. Employers need to provide their staff with the skills and knowledge required to take full advantage of AI tools, ensuring they use them effectively and responsibly.

By embracing AI during a pivotal moment in our digital history, employers put themselves at a competitive advantage when it comes to attracting and ultimately retaining top talent. Considering one of the top reasons for staff turnover is employees looking for opportunities to learn and develop new skills, any business that offers AI training opportunities will prove invaluable for employees looking to future-proof their skills in the changing digital landscape.

What’s more, with help from AI tools, L&D teams and employers can enhance existing training activities by incorporating an additional layer of personalisation. AI tools can help create personalised learning plans, designed to address the specific needs of individuals or serve as a ‘virtual’ mentor to help guide employees through L&D activities.

Similarly, AI tools can be used to outline detailed career development paths and identify any activities that will support employees in achieving their goals. By leveraging AI to keep up with employee expectations for personalised career development opportunities, employers can significantly boost job satisfaction, and employee engagement and retention rates as a result.

It’s worth noting that although AI is a powerful tool for supporting employee career development, delivering thorough L&D opportunities and enhancing performance management practices, you still need the right e-learning platform. Get to know our learning management systems (LMSs) and performance management system, Totara Perform, to find out why these are the right tools for the job.

Looking for more AI-focused content?

We’ve got you covered! Catch up with our webinars on ChatGPT for e-learning and Practical AI tools for bespoke e-learning design. Be sure to read our other AI-focused blogs and if you’re ready to implement effective AI training into your core L&D, make sure you’re using the right tools for the job, visit our product pages today or get in touch with one of our e-learning experts.