Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, but a significant gap exists in employee training. According to a Boston Consulting Group survey, only 33% of employees have received adequate training to use AI tools effectively. This lack of training is particularly pronounced among frontline workers, with 51% using AI, down from 52% last year.
The insufficient training has a direct impact on employees' confidence and the quality of AI-enabled work outputs. Furthermore, almost 40% of employees say their company isn't supplying the right tools, leading to 62% of Gen Z employees bypassing corporate restrictions to use other AI tools. The lack of support from management is also a significant issue, with only 25% of frontline employees experiencing clear leadership support for AI technology.
The consequences of this skills gap are far-reaching. Job security concerns are on the rise, with 46% of workers at companies undergoing major AI-driven changes worried about their jobs. Moreover, AI agents are underutilized, with only 13% of employees saying they are part of their daily workflows.
To overcome these challenges, companies should focus on providing comprehensive training, ensuring access to necessary tools, and demonstrating clear leadership support for AI adoption. When companies invest at least five hours in AI training and provide in-person coaching, employees are more likely to become regular users. By addressing these gaps, organizations can unlock the full potential of AI and drive meaningful impact.
