AI and Human Skills Research Report
Most employees feel unprepared to effectively work with AI
AI and automation are reshaping how we work, learn, and interact. However, it’s our human connection—how we communicate, collaborate, and relate—that remains constant and continues to drive success. This report explores the adoption of AI in the workplace, the growing importance of human skills, and how organisations must adapt to the rising demand for new skills, blending both AI and human intelligence to foster innovation and long-term success.
AI is rapidly transforming the workplace, but its usage and acceptance vary across demographics. From generative AI in day-to-day tasks to organisational policies around its usage, here's what we found:
Most employees use generative AI technologies at work for a variety of tasks, with 48% utilising it to find information, 42% to write content and 40% to generate ideas.
Additionally, AI has proven to be a significant time-saver in the workplace. Employees reporting that AI has saved them time (50%) experience an average time reduction of 37 minutes, while those who say AI has added time (39%) report an average increase of 31 minutes. The remaining 11% didn’t experience any change.
This suggests that the mixed impact of AI on time may be due to the fact that, while AI automates tasks and improves efficiency, it can add time for those who haven’t fully learned how to use it. Once employees are familiar with the tools, they are likely to save more time, but without proper understanding, AI can initially add to their workload.
AI adoption in the workplace has brought significant advantages, particularly in terms of improving efficiency and fostering innovation. Employees report that AI enhances data analysis, resulting in faster, more informed decision-making. AI has significantly boosted productivity by automating routine tasks, allowing workers to focus on more strategic, high-value activities.
Moreover, AI is recognised for driving innovation and opening new learning opportunities, helping employees continuously evolve and adapt to the changing demands of the modern workplace.
AI is stirring both excitement and hesitation across industries. While it enhances job satisfaction for many, concerns remain, especially among younger employees. 48% of Gen Z employees are sceptical about AI’s role in their work, a stark contrast to the 31% of employees aged 55 and older who share this scepticism.
This generational divide highlights varying levels of confidence and comfort with AI, suggesting the need for targeted support and education to bridge these differing perspectives.
“As we continue to integrate AI into our workflows, it's crucial that we foster a sense of 'AI intimacy'—where employees feel comfortable and confident in their use of AI. Building trust with AI tools requires more than just technical training; it’s about creating an environment where AI is seen as a supportive partner, enhancing human potential rather than replacing it"
Chris Chen, Chief Technology Officer at GoodHabitz
Despite the widespread integration of AI in the workplace, a significant gap remains between adoption and adequate training. Many employees recognise the value of AI as a tool but feel they lack the necessary training to fullyleverage its potential. While aportion of the workforce feels they have some skills for working with AI, many still feel underprepared to use it effectively.
Moreover, while some employees have received training on AI tools, much of it is considered insufficient or too basic, underscoring the need for more comprehensive and advanced education.
“At the heart of every AI-powered organization is the human element. While AI enhances our capabilities, it is the uniquely human skills that will determine the true success of any initiative. As leaders, we have a responsibility to provide the tools and training needed to unlock this potential, ensuring that both tech and people thrive in the modern workplace. AI holds incredible potential to transform workplaces, but only if organisations invest in the human skills and training required to harness its power."
Annabelle Vultee, CEO, GoodHabitz
Ed Monk, CEO of the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI), echoes this sentiment:
"AI has enormous potential to enhance productivity, but without the right skills, that potential will be wasted.”
Monk continues,
“We need to ensure that every employee, regardless of their role, is equipped with the training they need not only to use AI tools but to complement them with uniquely human capabilities like critical thinking and adaptability. Investing in human-centred skills alongside AI literacy will be key to staying competitive in the global market."
In an AI-driven workplace, human skills are critical in complementing AI’s capabilities.
While AI can handle data-driven tasks, it is human skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity that help interpret data, make strategic decisions, and adapt to new challenges. These skills are essential in ensuring AI is applied effectively, aligning with organisational goals and fostering innovation.
This report makes it clear that human-AI collaboration is the key to future workplace success. It begins with equipping employees with the necessary human skills to navigate and thrive in an AI-enabled environment.
As AI continues to evolve, so must our approach to human skills development, ensuring that technology and human talent work together to drive innovation and long-term growth.
About the study
This research was commissioned by GoodHabitz and conducted by Censuswide. It surveyed a sample of 2,014 employed respondents in the UK. Data collection took place between 23rd and 29th August 2024. Censuswide adheres to the Market Research Society (MRS) Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles, ensuring high standards in research methodology. Additionally, Censuswide is a member of the British Polling Council.