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Research reveals training deficit slowing ai adoption in the workplace
A slow increase in workers utilising AI in the workplace is due to a lack of training and support, according to new research.
The research from leading workplace solutions and recruitment specialist Hays reveals that nearly a quarter (24%) of workers are now using AI tools or technologies as part of their job, up from 18% in 2023. Among those not using AI tools, almost a third (32%) cite a lack of understanding, support, or training as the reason, while 27% do not see the benefits of AI.
Despite these challenges, the survey of over 10,600 professionals and employers found that nearly two in five (39%) employers are recommending the use of AI technologies or tools in the workplace, with this figure rising to nearly half (47%) among firms with over 1,000 employees.
Two in five workers worried about AI’s impact on future jobs
41% of workers say they are concerned about the potential risks to future employment opportunities due to AI advancement. However, only 12% of employers say they believe there are jobs in their current organisation that could be replaced by AI in the future.
Interestingly, nearly one in five (15%) workers intend to change their profession or field of expertise by the end of 2025 in response to AI developments.
Additionally, nearly three-quarters (74%) of professionals would be willing to take part in upskilling or reskilling programmes to adopt AI in the workplace. Despite this willingness, only 13% say they have received any training or support from their employer to help them adopt AI technologies.
On the other hand, over a third (37%) of employers say they do offer training or support to staff for the use of AI, suggesting there is a communication disconnect at play.
The research highlights a significant skills gap that employers must address concerning AI. Only 7% of firms report having full access to the necessary skills to effectively utilise AI tools and technologies.
Amanda Whicher, UKI Technology Director at Hays, said: “The slow adoption of AI in the workplace highlights a clear need for better training and support systems to take advantage of the technology available. Our research reveals that nearly a third of workers feel unprepared to leverage AI technologies due to a lack of understanding and support. This gap in knowledge and resources is a significant barrier to fully integrating AI into daily operations, which could otherwise enhance productivity and innovation across various sectors.
“Moreover, the willingness of nearly three-quarters of professionals to participate in upskilling or reskilling programmes highlights the potential for growth if proper training is provided. Employers must recognise this eagerness and invest in robust training initiatives to bridge the skills gap – and if they are offering training, they ought to ensure this is communicated effectively and widely offered. By doing so, they can not only alleviate concerns about AI’s impact on future employment but also empower their workforce to harness the full potential of AI technologies.”
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About the research: The survey was conducted between the 21st of August – 11th September 2024 and received 10,658 responses from professionals and employers across the UK.
Comparisons made in the release refer to research in 2023: The survey was conducted between the 10th of August – 11th September 2023 and received 14,915 responses.
Contact Helen Flannery Senior PR Manager helen.flannery@hays.com T: 020 3040 0282 M: 07548 778306
About Hays
Hays plc (the "Group") is the world’s leading specialist in workforce solutions and recruitment, such as RPO and MSP. The Group is the expert at recruiting qualified, professional, and skilled people worldwide, being the market leader in the UK, Germany, and Australia and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The Group operates across the private and public sectors, dealing in permanent positions, contract roles and temporary assignments. As of 30 June 2024, the Group employed over 11,100 staff operating from 236 offices in 33 countries. For the year ended 30 June 2024:
