Artificial intelligence (AI), as its use continues to grow, is having a profound impact on UK workers. Henley Business School’s latest research shows that, while optimism is rising about AI potential, the feeling of being overtaken by its rapid growth is also on the rise.
A survey of 4,640 adults from nearly 30 sectors, conducted by the World of Work Institute, at Henley Business School reveals that more than half (56%) of professionals in full-time positions are optimistic about AI advances, but 61% confess to being overwhelmed by the speed of change. This feeling has been captured in the phrase “FOBO”, (Feeling Overwhelmed but Optimistic), which Henley Business School research identified as a major challenge for today’s workforce.
Findings also show a shift in mentality: where once fear of being obsolete dominated AI conversations, professionals today are more likely report curiosity, cautious optimistic, and a readiness to adapt, even if they do not feel fully prepared. Most respondents described their attitude towards AI as either cautious (26%) and curious (23%).
This growing openness, however, is met with a lack in structure. Nearly a quarter of employees (24%) believe their employers are not providing enough support. 49% also say that there are no guidelines at their workplace for AI.
60% of workers say that if properly trained, they would be more likely to adopt AI. The training gap is particularly noticeable in law enforcement and transportation, where professionals blame a lack industry-specific support for the adoption of AI.
The most effective methods to boost confidence were in-house training, courses and projects.
The need for support in this area is particularly urgent as 57% believe that they will become dependent on AI to perform their daily tasks within the next five-year period. 37% expect it to improve productivity and efficiency.
Professor Keiichi Nkata from The World of Work Institute, Henley Business School commissioned the study. He said, “This large-scale research offers a valuable glimpse into how AI is being implemented across UK industries, and where there is still a lack of support.” The study shows that professionals are eager to use AI but they lack the skills to do so.
Businesses must provide training and guidance now. We risk creating a workforce who is willing to use AI, but not sure how to begin .”
The concerns about job security and automation seem to be decreasing despite ongoing discussions. While 36% expressed concern about being replaced by AI in the survey, 61% stated that they were not worried about losing their jobs. Many are now more focused on the benefits of AI, rather than being afraid. They want to be supported with boring or repetitious tasks (33%), improved data interpretation (30%) and smoother operations (27%) instead.
All respondents said that AI is most commonly used to assist with research (35%), for data analysis (33%), or for creating content (32%). Workers are using AI on average for over three and a quarter hours per week. Many admit that they are not using AI to its fullest potential, even though 54% of workers see it as an important addition to their work.
One third of respondents were frustrated by the potential for AI to make mistakes, underscoring the importance of human oversight.
When asked if they openly use AI at work, 74% said yes. However, the level of transparency varied by industry. Scientists are the least transparent about their AI usage, followed by those in the legal and charity sectors. According to OnePoll, property and construction professionals expressed concerns that their organizations are not embracing AI.
Professor Keiichi Nakta, from Henley Business School, added:
“It can simplify complicated tasks, remove boring jobs and give workers more time to concentrate on what really matters.
Henley Business School’s World of Work Institute helps professionals and organizations navigate this change by providing practical guidance, research driven insight, and tailor-made training to equip workers with the skills needed to integrate AI confidently. Henley Business School is committed to helping individuals and companies use AI as a tool to progress, both for employees and organizations. Click here to learn more.
Top Sectors that embrace AI
- Information analysis and research
- Information Technology
- Journalism and publishing
- Recruitment and HR
- Marketing, advertising, and PR
TOP SECTORS THAT REMAIN HESITANT OF AI
- Buy it Now
- Teaching and education
- Public Services and Administration
- Construction and property
- Sport, leisure and tourism
The original HR news article, Report: Half of workers are optimistic regarding AI but 61% find it difficult to keep pace with its rapid growth appeared.
