Most workers are optimistic about the impact of AI on their career growth and promotion, with nearly half expressing excitement about AI in the workplace. While there are concerns about the potential threat of AI to job security, it is generating considerable enthusiasm as workers recognize the benefits it can bring to their current roles and future opportunities. This positive outlook is particularly prevalent among younger employees who are already utilizing AI in their daily work. The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report indicates that the majority of leading companies worldwide plan to adopt AI, with half predicting job growth and only a quarter expecting job losses. Sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and recruitment are already leveraging this technology. Our recent Workmonitor Pulse research further supports employers' positive perception of AI's impact on the labor market, as the majority of respondents expressed confidence in AI's potential for career advancement and promotion. Similarly, 47% of participants expressed excitement about AI in the workplace, while only 39% harbored concerns about job displacement. A significant number of workers already utilize some form of AI at work, and more than half believe it will eventually affect their industry and job. However, while there is a strong enthusiasm for unlocking the potential of AI in the workplace, employers must address the challenge of facilitating workers' adaptation to this rapidly evolving technology. According to our survey, 22% of respondents sought learning and development support for AI, but only 13% received such training in the past year. 1 This discrepancy is particularly prominent among blue-collar workers, with 41% lacking any form of upskilling compared to 20% of their white-collar counterparts. Over the course of our 20 years of Workmonitor research, we consistently find that employees desire more learning and development opportunities to remain relevant in the labor market. As AI adoption increases, this desire intensifies, highlighting the need for employers to respond more effectively.

Rather than dismissing AI as a distant and theoretical concept, it is imperative to recognize its widespread implementation in the global economy today. Eventually, AI will influence the jobs of everyone, even those who currently perceive themselves as less susceptible. The potential of technology to reshape the future of work is boundless. One group of researchers even predicts that up to 80% of the U. S. workforce may experience at least 10% of their job tasks being impacted by the introduction of Large Language Modules, with 19% potentially seeing half of their tasks affected. Our data also reveals that companies are failing to meet the technological skilling needs of their workforce adequately. Furthermore, higher education institutions are struggling to keep up with the demand for AI training. A survey of higher education administrators indicates that the supply of AI training is insufficient to meet demand. To address AI anxiety and empower individuals to thrive in a transformed work environment, it is crucial to provide more than just learning and development opportunities. People require support, encouragement, and the freedom to explore new and innovative ways of working. Technical competencies are also essential for effectively utilizing new tools and processes. As we navigate this transition to the AI age, prioritizing these three areas can help individuals overcome their anxieties and equip them with the necessary skills to future-proof their careers.