A Double-Edged Sword: The Risks of Using Generative AI in Employee Communication

In the dynamic landscape of technology, generative AI stands out, promising transformative changes across industries. Yet, with its ascent, it has also ushered in a wave of concerns regarding AI risks, particularly among executives managing employee communication.

In this article, we’ll delve deep into these apprehensions, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to AI integration as it pertains to generative AI models.

We’ll also explore solutions designed to address these challenges. At the forefront of this AI-driven revolution is Sociabble, which, by leveraging Microsoft Azure Open AI, offers innovative and secure solutions tailored for employee communication.

Understanding Generative AI Models

Generative AI, at its core, is about creating content. Whether it’s text, images, or even music, this AI can produce it. Its potential in employee communication is vast, but understanding its workings is crucial for effective utilization.

Benefits of Generative AI in Employee Communication

• Addressing the Challenges of Undersized Comms Departments
  With many communication departments being undersized, the challenge of producing quality content consistently is real. Generative AI offers a solution, helping teams overcome the dreaded “blank page syndrome” and elevating content quality.
• Empowering a Broader Range of Content Writers
  Imagine tapping into the potential of numerous employees who have brilliant ideas but limited time. Generative AI decentralizes content creation, promoting empowerment and bringing diverse voices to the forefront.
• Streamlined Communication
  From automated responses to personalized messages tailored for departments, generative AI systems ensure communication is seamless and efficient.
• Efficiency
  For large organizations, disseminating information quickly is crucial. Generative AI ensures timely and effective communication.

Artificial Intelligence Risks Associated with Generative Models

Data Privacy and Security Concerns

Generative AI’s reliance on vast amounts of data brings forth significant concerns about data privacy and security. A notable example is Samsung unveiling its code, which raised eyebrows in the tech community regarding the potential misuse of such powerful AI tools.

Moreover, a recent survey commissioned by BlackBerry revealed that 75% of companies are considering or have already implemented a ban on chatGPT and generative AI.

A staggering 67% of the executives cited data protection and privacy risks as the primary reason. Additionally, 57% see reputational risks associated with these tools.

The survey also highlighted concerns about the loss of control in organizations, with many feeling that generative AI tools, beneficial as they are, are being used without clear guidelines.

Misinformation and Misinterpretation

Generative AI, while powerful, can sometimes produce content that may be misleading or incorrect. For instance, if an AI model is trained on biased data, it might produce content that perpetuates those biases.

This can lead to employees or stakeholders receiving and acting upon incorrect information, which can have significant repercussions for the company.

Ethical Concerns

The ethical implications of using generative AI are vast. One of the primary concerns is the potential for generative AI to be biased based on the data it’s trained on.

For instance, if an AI is trained predominantly on data from a particular demographic, its outputs might unintentionally marginalize or misrepresent other groups. This can lead to a lack of diversity and inclusivity in AI-generated content.

Dependence and Over-reliance

While generative AI models can streamline many processes, over-relying on it can pose challenges. For instance, if employees become too dependent on AI for content generation, they might lose critical thinking skills or the ability to produce content independently.

Moreover, if the generative AI system faces issues or is compromised, it can disrupt the entire communication process.

Loss of Personal Touch

While generative AI can produce vast amounts of content quickly, it lacks the nuance and understanding that human intelligence and communication bring. Especially in sensitive matters or when addressing specific concerns, a human touch is irreplaceable.

Personal experiences, empathy, and the ability to understand context are areas where humans excel, and relying solely on AI might lead to messages that feel generic or lack depth.

Best Practices for Integrating Generative AI Models into Employee Communication

Trust and AI in the Company

Trust related to AI within a company is paramount. There can be no compromise on data privacy, security, and ethical considerations.

At Sociabble, we’ve made a conscious decision not to connect with the public version of ChatGPT, which could have jeopardized client data. Instead, our AI features are built on private versions of ChatGPT, based on Microsoft Azure, ensuring a secure environment.

Client data is never used for cross-client GPT training. The Microsoft AI we utilize is grounded in the Microsoft Responsible AI Framework, which emphasizes fairness, reliability & safety, privacy & security, inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability.

Human-AI Collaboration

Humans can brief generative AI, but the process often requires iteration as training data, much like our current interaction. It’s essential to engage in fact-checking to avoid issues like “hallucination”, where the AI generative models might produce content that isn’t based on factual data or might deviate from the intended message.

Customizing AI to Company Needs

With Sociabble’s AI features, companies can define their unique tone of voice and set guidelines for AI assistance. Even if users aren’t adept at prompting, we’ve simplified the process to ensure consistency.

The AI-generated content is always contextualized to meet company-specific needs, ensuring that messages resonate with the intended audience.

Training and Awareness for Content Writers and Employees

In the age of AI-driven communication, it’s paramount to equip content writers and employees with the knowledge and skills to leverage these tools effectively.

Sociabble’s consulting department stands ready to provide specialized training, helping communication departments master the art of prompting and other AI-related techniques.

By ensuring that teams are well-versed in the nuances of AI-powered content generation, we aim to bridge the knowledge gap, enabling companies to harness generative AI’s potential responsibly and effectively.

The AI Revolution: Leveraging Generative Models for Competitive Advantage

Generative AI, with its transformative potential, also brings along a set of challenges, especially in the realm of employee communication. While the dangers inherent to generative AI models are real, they can be addressed with the right strategies and tools in place. 

Sociabble positions itself as the ideal partner in navigating this AI transition. Our commitment goes beyond offering a secure, ethical, and advanced platform.

We pride ourselves on our dedicated teams and consultants who assist customers in successfully integrating generative AI into their communication strategies. In today’s competitive landscape, not leveraging a generative AI model when other companies are can pose a significant risk. AI is not just the future; it’s the present.

We invite you to reach out and learn more about how Sociabble can help you harness the power of generative AI while ensuring ethical and responsible use.