A report by Salesforce reveals that over a third of Spanish workers (39%) believe that mastering generative artificial intelligence (AI) will help them get a promotion at work. However, the study also warns that the lack of clear policies around the use of this technology may put companies at risk.

The research shows that 61% of Spanish workers claim to have used generative AI tools that are not formally approved by their company, and up to 33% have used them despite being expressly prohibited. Many employees turn to the new technology without any training, guidance, or approval from their company.

The study titled ‘The Promises and Difficulties of Generative AI at Work’ surveyed more than 14,000 workers from fourteen countries, including Spain. It found that company policies and training around generative AI are not clearly defined or, at best, ambiguous. Despite this, workers recognize the importance of this technology in advancing their careers, with 74% of those who use it stating it makes them more productive.

However, this lack of training and defined policies has led users to perform ethically questionable activities at work when using generative AI, such as passing off AI work as their own or inflating their skills. Moreover, the report reveals that 86% of Spanish workers believe there are barriers to using generative AI at work.

Salesforce recommends companies invest in safe, ethical and reliable generative AI tools and train their employees on the safe and ethical use of AI. The report concludes that it is not a question of whether companies apply generative AI but how they do it effectively, safely and ethically.