75% of workers use AI in the workplace: Microsoft report

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a staple in workplaces, with 75 percent of knowledge workers using AI tools regularly, and 46% of them having adopted these technologies in the last six months. According to the 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, AI’s benefits are already apparent. Users report that AI helps them save time (90 percent), focus on important tasks (85 percent), boost creativity (84 percent), and enhance job satisfaction (83 percent).??

In the report, Karim Lakhani, Chair of the Digital Data Design Institute at Harvard emphasises the transformative potential of AI: “We’re at the forefront of integrating AI to not just work faster, but to work smarter. It’s our responsibility as organizational leaders to ensure that this technology elevates our teams’ creativity and aligns with our ethical values.”??

Despite the enthusiasm, leaders are cautious. While 79 percent agree that AI adoption is essential to stay competitive, 59 percent are concerned about demonstrating the productivity gains from AI investments. Furthermore, 60 percent of leaders feel their organisations lack a clear vision for AI implementation.??

The new workplace trend

With the rapid integration of AI, many employees are taking the initiative by bringing their own AI tools to work. The report reveals that 78 percent of AI users engage in this practice, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises. This trend spans across all generations, not just Gen Z.??

However, there are significant concerns. The Microsoft report said 52 percent of employees who use AI are reluctant to disclose this, fearing it might make them seem replaceable. Additionally, 53 percent worry that relying on AI for crucial tasks could jeopardize their job security. This covert adoption of AI can lead to missed strategic opportunities and heightened cybersecurity risks, which is a major concern for leaders in the year ahead.??

AI: Breaking barriers and creating opportunities

AI is also reshaping the job market. While 45 percent of professionals worry about job displacement due to AI, a similar percentage (46 percent) are considering a career change, up from 40 percent in the Great Reshuffle of 2021. This is reflected in a 14 percent increase in job applications per role in the U.S. since last fall, with 85 percent of professionals contemplating new job opportunities this year.??

Leaders, on the other hand, are concerned about filling roles with adequate talent. 55 percent express this concern, with the figure rising to 60 percent or higher in fields like cybersecurity, engineering, and creative design.??

The rise of the AI power user

The report identifies four categories of AI users: skeptics, novices, explorers, and power users. Power users, who engage extensively with AI, are reshaping their workdays and experiencing significant benefits. These users report that AI helps them manage workloads, boost creativity, focus on essential tasks, and enhance motivation.???

Organisations with a strong AI culture see substantial benefits. According to the report, power users are 61 percent more likely to hear from senior leaders about AI’s importance, and they receive tailored training and encouragement to innovate. These companies are better prepared for AI integration, fostering a culture that supports AI-driven transformation.??

As AI continues to integrate into workplaces, companies must navigate the challenges of adoption, employee concerns, and the need for strategic implementation to fully harness AI’s potential.??