Companies Turn AI Use Into a New Metric for Employee Reviews
Firms are adding AI proficiency to performance appraisals, but inconsistent methods and backlash highlight growing pains.
Businesses are racing to embed artificial-intelligence fluency into employee evaluations, with Gusto using a five-level rubric that moves workers from "observer" to "amplifier." Earlier attempts at AI leaderboards at Amazon and Uber were scrapped after pushback, and Duolingo withdrew similar plans. Meta is sued by former employees who claim AI-driven productivity scores led to terminations, a claim the company denies.
A recent survey shows nearly half of surveyed leaders now monitor AI tool usage, but most rely on vague measures like speed or perceived impact. Experts such as Richard Landers and Lori Moffatt warn that rewarding AI adoption without solid metrics creates unfair pressure and uneven reviews. Some companies, including Merge and Travelport, prioritize the quality of AI applications and peer teaching as higher-value criteria.
Why it matters
The way AI use is judged will affect fairness, incentives and productivity for workers everywhere.
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