Employees are adopting artificial intelligence at an unprecedented rate, but this increase in usage is accompanied by a significant decline in trust among workers.
Employees are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, with a reported 13% rise in daily use, now encompassing 45% of the workforce. Despite this surge in usage, trust in the technology has plummeted by 18%, marking the first decline in overall employee confidence in three years, as highlighted by the ManpowerGroup's 2026 Global Workforce Barometer. The findings indicate that while workers feel skilled in their current roles, there is growing uncertainty about the future of their employment due to the technological advancements.
The report reveals a paradox where over 40% of employees harbor fears that automation will lead to job displacement. Interestingly, while 89% of workers believe they possess the necessary skills to succeed in their current positions, a significant portion remains anxious about the potential impacts of AI and automation on their job security. This juxtaposition of confidence in skills and fear of job loss contributes to a phenomenon termed "job hugging," where employees cling to their current jobs for safety amid rapid technological changes.
The implications of these findings are profound for both employers and policymakers. Organizations must recognize the risk of declining trust and engagement among the workforce, which can affect productivity and innovation. To mitigate these concerns, employers should focus on transparent communication regarding the role of AI in the workplace, investing in employee training, and fostering a supportive environment that encourages skill development while addressing fears about automation's impact on job security.
