As ChatGPT becomes the first "colleague", experts warn of a new trend in the workplace

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just being used to write emails, prepare presentations, or analyze data.

More and more employees are turning to chatbots like ChatGPT to seek advice on work conflicts, relationships with managers, stress, or even career dilemmas.

This shift is creating a new role for artificial intelligence: from a productivity tool to a source of emotional support. However, experts warn that this trend also brings risks that companies and employees themselves should not underestimate.

Why are employees turning to AI?

There are several reasons why more and more people are choosing to consult with a chatbot first.

First, AI is always available. There is no need to wait for a meeting with a manager or HR department, and answers are received within seconds.

Second, many employees feel more comfortable voicing their concerns in front of a non-judgmental system. They can describe difficult situations, ask for help with wording a delicate email, or discuss an important career decision.

In many cases, chatbots are also used as a "conversation" to organize thoughts before the employee speaks to a colleague, manager, or psychologist.

The line between help and dependence

Although AI can help structure ideas or suggest ways to communicate, experts emphasize that it is not a mental health professional and does not have the ability to fully understand human context.

An answer may seem convincing, but not take into account the company culture, the history of relationships between colleagues, or other elements that influence a specific situation.

There is also a risk that employees will overly rely on AI advice and postpone real conversations with managers or HR specialists, even when these are the most appropriate solution.

The issue of privacy

Another concern relates to the information that employees share with chatbots.

In an effort to get a more personalized response, some may include names of colleagues, customer data, or internal company information.

This can create risks to privacy and data security, especially if public platforms are used that are not approved by the employer.

For this reason, many organizations are drafting clear policies on the use of artificial intelligence, asking employees not to share confidential information with chatbots.

What can companies do?

Instead of banning the use of AI, experts suggest that companies learn how to integrate it responsibly.

This means training on the safe use of artificial intelligence tools, clear guidelines on what information can be shared, and fostering a culture where employees feel free to speak openly about their challenges.

Ultimately, artificial intelligence can be a useful tool for reflecting, organizing thoughts, or preparing for a difficult conversation.

But it cannot replace human judgment, empathy, and the trust that is built in relationships between people.

As the use of AI in the workplace continues to expand, the challenge for companies is not whether employees will use it, but how to ensure that this technology serves as a support and not a replacement for human communication./ Monitor