Nearly seven in 10 senior executives believe refusing to adopt artificial intelligence is a bigger threat to workers’ careers than the technology itself, according to a new survey from Kelly Services.
The Kelly Global Re:work Report found 69 per cent of executives view AI skill acquisition as essential to long-term career success. More than half of executives surveyed — 59 per cent — said they would replace workers who resist adopting AI tools.
The findings reveal a sharp divide between executive optimism and worker skepticism. While executives say AI should free up time for high-value tasks like collaboration and mentoring, fewer than half of workers — 47 per cent — report actual time savings from AI tools. One in three workers said they are not seeing benefits from the technology.
Implementation stalls despite widespread adoption
Nearly all organizations surveyed are using AI in some form, but 80 per cent of executives admitted implementation is stalling because their teams lack the expertise to use these tools effectively.
“Our survey reveals a disconnect between how leaders and their employees perceive the current impact of AI on work and careers,” said Chris Layden, chief executive of Kelly. “While leaders view AI as a smart upgrade, talent is split on whether it delivers the promised benefits or threatens their jobs.”
Layden said companies can only realize the full value of AI when workers understand why it matters to the business, receive proper training, and trust that it benefits their own roles.
Technical challenges compound skills gap
Organizations face vendor integration issues, data hurdles, and slow user adoption alongside the skills gap, according to the report. Security concerns also remain a barrier to implementation.
The analysis found workers need more support to translate AI tools into better outcomes. Kelly recommends organizations connect AI fluency to career development, address fears directly with hands-on demonstrations, and implement feedback loops to align leadership optimism with worker experience.
“AI is changing how work gets done. Faster workflows, data-driven decisions, and cost savings are just the beginning,” Layden said. “But the disconnect between how leaders and talent experience the technology puts workforce stability and business performance at risk.”
He said leaders should model how they use AI in their own roles, foster a culture where AI-powered problem solving is encouraged, and outline how acquiring AI skills will strengthen both business and individual career opportunities.
About the survey
The Kelly Global Re:work Report is based on surveys of more than 6,000 professionals across industries, roles, and regions. Researchers classified respondents into executives — those with titles of manager or above — and workers in individual contributor roles.
