UK employees increasingly view AI as an indispensable workplace tool
AI has gone from a useful addition to a key ally for UK employees. Over a third (37%) of the workforce now reports that they simply cannot manage their workload without it. That’s a huge shift that shows just how deeply AI is embedding itself into the fabric of modern work.
And the benefits are undeniable. A staggering 98% of employees using AI report that it saves them time. Around 72% of employees say they use the time to increase productivity. Others, roughly 62%, channel it into creative or complex problem-solving tasks, while 64% focus on mentoring and developing others. AI is helping people focus on what truly matters.
In 2024, perceptions of AI have improved. Why? The data from Freshworks is clear: 53% of employees now better understand AI, and 46% are experiencing its tangible benefits in their roles. This combination of clarity and utility is turning skeptics into advocates.
AI integration is influencing job decisions and career growth
Imagine being so driven by AI’s potential that nearly half (45%) of UK employees are willing to switch jobs for roles that offer better AI integration. This statistic speaks volumes about where the future of work is heading. AI proficiency is becoming a career-defining advantage.
The Freshworks data shows that 35% of employees received promotions or salary increases because of their ability to use AI effectively. The reality is that AI is changing entire career trajectories. AI adoption is now a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent.
Employees prioritize AI adoption over certain workplace privileges
What are employees willing to trade for better access to AI? Plenty, it seems. The Freshworks survey revealed that 37% of employees would give up the flexibility of remote work, and 40% would even forego the beloved company holiday party. People are willing to sacrifice workplace perks to make sure they have access to cutting-edge AI tools.
This is about recognizing that AI is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Employees understand that with better AI comes greater efficiency, creativity, and overall success in their roles. Businesses that prioritize AI integration are likely to see higher engagement and loyalty from their workforce, while those that lag behind may struggle to keep up.
Business leaders globally are ramping up AI investments
The momentum behind AI adoption is accelerating at an extraordinary pace. Over the past six months, 61% of global organizational leaders have increased their use of AI and it’s only growing: 54% of leaders are planning further AI investments in 2025.
The benefits are tangible. According to Freshworks, 56% of employees report that AI has directly increased their department’s success. This means that beyond the hype, AI is delivering real, measurable outcomes and it doesn’t require massive overhauls. Even modest AI implementation can lead to better talent utilization and significant growth.
Key takeaways
Globally, an overwhelming 92% of employees are eager to offload some of their work responsibilities to AI. Why? Because the current approach, where AI is seen as a passive addition, isn’t cutting it. Employees want AI to take on more so they can focus on what truly adds value.
Companies that use AI to handle repetitive or time-intensive tasks will unlock new levels of efficiency. They’ll also help their teams concentrate on creative and strategic work, the kind of work that drives innovation and growth.
For leaders, the opportunity is enormous: to support employees, simplify operations, and redefine what productivity looks like in the modern workplace.
