UK workers overwhelmed as AI adoption outpaces support & training

Research from WalkMe highlights that many UK office workers are struggling to keep pace with the rapid introduction of artificial intelligence tools in the workplace.

The survey, which included responses from 1,210 UK office workers, found that 71% believe new AI tools are emerging faster than they can learn to use them effectively. This concern reflects a significant gap between the introduction of AI technology and the users' ability to adapt and integrate these tools into their workflows.

Rising anxiety among workers

The findings indicate that while almost half (47%) of workers feel they should be excited about the introduction of AI at work, a similar proportion instead report feeling worried about its impact. This concern is particularly pronounced among Gen Z and Millennial employees, with 61% of Gen Z and 51% of Millennials expressing worry. These groups, typically early in their careers, face fast-changing expectations and insufficient guidance as organisations introduce new digital tools.

The research further reveals that one in three workers (33%) now view their job security as linked to AI, leading to added anxiety. Among Gen Z workers, the proportion rises to 52%, underlining the heightened sense of vulnerability among the youngest cohort in the workforce.

Pressure and a lack of support

Many employees report feeling under pressure to deliver results using AI, yet also describe challenges in seeking help when issues arise. According to the survey, more than one in three employees (37%) do not feel confident asking for assistance with AI tools, a figure that increases to 50% among Gen Z workers. This lack of confidence is leading some to conceal their difficulties; 28% of all workers admit to overstating their AI usage to present themselves more favourably at work, and this behaviour is especially prevalent among Gen Z respondents, at 52%.

This combination of pressure to perform and a reluctance to seek support points to what WalkMe characterises as a "culture of pressure and silent confusion" in workplaces that are adopting AI at a rapid pace.

Calls for greater protection and guidance

Despite current anxieties, nearly half (47%) of respondents are optimistic that AI will enhance their work lives by 2030. To achieve this, many employees are calling for stronger protective measures and clearer guidance. Specifically, 69% of workers believe governments should introduce stronger AI protections. In addition, almost half (46%) say that a workplace "AI manifesto" would help reduce anxiety, with support for this idea higher among Gen Z (63%) and Millennials (57%). Respondents are seeking clear values and leadership from their employers as AI use expands.

Disconnect between ambition and reality

Vivek Behl, Vice President of Strategy at WalkMe, highlighted these challenges, indicating that organisations need to understand employee experiences better to support and fully benefit from the deployment of AI technologies.

"AI is dominating headlines and boardrooms, but our research reveals a stark disconnect between ambition and reality. Employees – especially younger workers – feel overwhelmed, anxious, and unsupported. If businesses continue to overlook the end user, AI risks becoming a source of stress rather than a driver of productivity. Human-centered adoption must now take priority."

"To realise the benefits vendors are promising, organisations need clear visibility into how employees are actually using AI tools – where they're getting stuck and what's slowing them down. Without that insight, leaders can't provide the support people need to succeed. Rather than layering complexity across multiple apps, businesses should focus on delivering a seamless, unified experience. Digital adoption is no longer a 'nice to have' – it's mission-critical."

The WalkMe research suggests that, while there is optimism around the long-term impact of AI, employers and policymakers will need to take steps to address current shortcomings in support, communication, and protections as AI becomes more prominent in UK workplaces.