Two thirds of Brits to become more reliant on AI in next five years - but there's a problem

A recent survey has revealed that two-thirds of workers anticipate becoming more dependent on in their daily tasks within the next five years. Despite this, many find the rapid evolution of the overwhelming, and stress a need for training to help use it correctly.

The poll, which surveyed 4,640 adults across nearly 30 major sectors, found that respondents are currently 'cautious' and 'curious' about AI. However, two-thirds of participants said they would be more likely to use AI if they were properly trained, with almost half saying their employer does not provide any guidelines for its use.

In-house training programmes, dedicated courses, and hands-on projects were identified as the most effective methods to build confidence in using AI, according to the survey.

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Professor Keiichi Nakata from The World of Work Institute at , who commissioned the research, emphasised the importance of businesses providing appropriate training and guidance.

He warned: "Without in-house training, hands-on learning, and clear policies we risk creating a workforce that's willing to use AI but is not sure where to start."

Despite the ongoing discussions about job security and automation, it seems that fears are subsiding, with 61% of people stating they're not concerned about losing their jobs to AI. Instead, many are focusing on the benefits that AI can bring.

The study found that workers in the publishing, HR, and IT sectors were early adopters of AI, while those in retail and teaching have been more hesitant. Sales and transport/logistics professionals recognise the value of AI for daily tasks, but many haven't tried it. Meanwhile, public service and professionals feel they're being left behind.

On average, workers are interacting with AI for over three and a half hours each week, using it to assist with research (35%), data analysis (33%), and content generation (32%). and many say it helps automate boring and tedious tasks.

But while the majority of those survey find AI useful, only three quarters of respondents say they're open with their employer about using it, although this level of transparency varies by field.

Researchers were the most secretive about their use of AI, while and legal sector workers were also reluctant to disclose their reliance on the technology. In contrast, property and construction professionals expressed frustration that their industries are slow to adopt it.

Professor Keiichi Nakata added: “Artificial intelligence is something that, when used strategically and responsibly, could be a transformative change in organisations across the UK.

"It has the ability to simplify complex tasks, take away the boring jobs, and enable workers to have more time to focus on the things that really matter.

"But that’s just the tip of the iceberg; it could prove to be a solution that not only helps businesses thrive but improves work satisfaction for employees.”