Employee productivity has been cast into the spotlight in recent months, thanks to the acceleration of AI. New research* shows that 50% of businesses are prioritising employee productivity over the next two years, budgeting for resources that promote individual staff performance and effectiveness.

AI’s growing role in the workplace is, of course, a key driver of this trend. But it’s not the only factor. Increased remote work and other operational challenges mean businesses are looking to maximise efficiency and get the best possible return on their investment.

We’re now seeing businesses take a holistic approach to promoting productivity. While AI offers significant benefits, it isn’t going to change things overnight. And if we have people in our business, it’s our duty to create the right environment for them to flourish. Compared with the previous year, our research[1] shows that:

• 63% of business owners are providing more training and development opportunities to encourage productivity, up from 51%.
• 66% are encouraging work/life balance and staff wellbeing, up from 54%.
• 60% say they set clear goals and performance metrics to encourage productivity, up from 49%.
• 60% say they use employee engagement initiatives to boost productivity, up from 47% in 2023.

This data suggests business owners are using all available tools to improve efficiency. Taking a holistic approach creates a culture of productivity that permeates the business, no matter where teams are based.

With increased remote work, it’s more important than ever to set tangible goals and clearly define what success looks like. By clarifying each staff member’s role and responsibilities, businesses can remove ambiguity and establish clear expectations for performance.

This focus also encourages employees to consider what they bring to their role beyond their job title. Businesses want people who bring their whole selves to work, which can feel challenging for those accustomed to separating professional and personal personas. But employees who embrace their full contributions can find a role that fits them perfectly, generating greater job satisfaction and long-term security.

Despite all these changes, people remain the ultimate differentiator in productivity. As a business owner, I’m always looking at ways to increase efficiency, including which tasks can be completed quickly and accurately by AI. AI can be highly efficient, but it relies on precedent. Humans are the ones who can achieve something truly different.

Unlike machines, we can understand nuance and emotional signals. AI may follow a process and deliver a product, but it cannot detect a client’s feelings or adjust its communication style accordingly. Humans have empathy, and that enables us to connect with people in ways AI simply cannot replicate.

So people continue to play a crucial role in sustaining businesses. With AI taking on more manual processes, humans can focus on social, creative, and relational aspects of work. This makes it essential to define clearly what productivity means for your team. As leaders, we must take the time upfront to identify this, even if it’s less tangible than traditional metrics.

By communicating what success looks like, businesses can create achievable goals that best utilise employees’ unique skillsets. Employees can also actively demonstrate their skills, showcase their spark, and highlight what makes them a valuable team member.

The rise in employers committing to employee-first productivity practices is encouraging. Ultimately, people are still at the heart of every organisation. AI will continue to develop, but with teams that bring personality and spark to their roles, businesses can boost efficiency without losing the human element.

* The research was conducted by Censuswide, among an overall sample of 1,500 18+ Business Owners/Directors with 100+ Employees. Wave three (2024) used a sample of 500 18+ Business Owners/Directors with 100+ employees. The data was collected between 22.10.2024 – 29.10.2024. The previous wave was carried out between: 08.09.2023 – 14.09.2023. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.