New global research from the Adecco Group finds soaring confidence in AI at work – but warns that perceived productivity gains may be misleading without better impact measurement.

AI is reshaping the workplace faster than ever, but the benefits may not be as clear-cut as they seem. The Adecco Group’s latest Global Workforce of the Future report finds that while workers believe artificial intelligence is saving them an average of two hours a day, many companies are struggling to translate those gains into real productivity.

The research, based on responses from 37,500 workers in 31 countries, shows a dramatic rise in confidence and use of AI tools. Seventy-one per cent of respondents said nothing is stopping them from using AI, up from just 19 per cent last year. Most employees now see AI as the most powerful force shaping their working lives, overtaking flexible working and economic uncertainty.

However, Adecco warns that technology alone cannot deliver meaningful change. Denis Machuel, the group’s chief executive, said: “AI is now a daily reality, but people remain at the heart of every transformation. To turn efficiency into business impact, leaders must invest in training and engagement to unlock value.”

The report also highlights the growing divide between “future-ready” workers – those who are upskilling and adapting to AI – and those left behind. Thirty-seven per cent of workers now fit that category, up from just 11 per cent in 2024.

Despite optimism about AI creating new jobs, nearly a quarter of workers still fear job loss. Many also report that time saved by automation is being spent on the same routine tasks, rather than more meaningful work.

Adecco’s chief HR officer, Daniela Seabrook, said organisations must help workers understand how AI affects their roles and provide ethical frameworks and training. “AI should be a driver of growth and human potential – not a source of uncertainty,” she said.