AI has been heralded as a game-changer for the workplace, offering unparalleled access to knowledge, increased efficiency, and automation of repetitive tasks.
From streamlining workflows to enhancing decision-making, AI holds the potential to revolutionize productivity and innovation. Companies that effectively harness AI can gain a competitive edge, allowing employees to focus on higher-value, strategic work.
Struggling to Keep Pace With AI
However, while AI promises transformation, many workers and organizations are struggling to keep pace with its rapid evolution. A new Wiley Workplace Intelligence report reveals that dealing with AI-driven change is among the biggest challenges facing employees in 2025.
According to the report, 36% of workers cite aligning the workforce with future business needs as their top challenge, while 35% point to upskilling employees as their primary concern. While this reflects a sentiment of anxiety around change generally, both these issues are also closely tied to AI adoption specifically as employees and businesses alike grapple with integrating AI into daily workflows.
The uncertainty of employees and business leaders looking toward the future is compounded by a lack of confidence—40% of workers say they struggle to understand how to use AI in their roles, while 75% admit they lack confidence in their ability to leverage AI effectively.
A Double-Edged Sword
For many workers, AI presents a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers tools that can make their jobs easier and more efficient. On the other, there’s a growing fear that those who can’t adapt fast enough may be left behind. The pressure to upskill—learning not just how AI works but how to integrate it into daily responsibilities—can feel overwhelming. Without proper training and support, AI can exacerbate workplace stress rather than alleviate it.
“Given how many workers are already struggling to understand and utilize AI, it’s no wonder they are concerned about adjusting to change in the future,” says Dr. Mark Scullard, senior director of product innovation at Wiley.
Artificial intelligence can be a revolutionary tool for businesses that are well-placed and capable of taking advantage of the many benefits the technology has to offer. On the other end of the spectrum, many companies will fail to utilize AI at all while others risk doing more harm than good as they struggle to understand, integrate, and implement an AI strategy.
Lin Grensing-Pophal is a Contributing Editor at Hr Daily Advisor.
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