As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily work, UK professionals are expressing both enthusiasm and uncertainty. Research from Henley Business School, through its World of Work Institute, has found that over half (56%) of UK full-time workers feel optimistic about AI’s future role.
However, 61% also admit to being overwhelmed by the pace of technological change.
The study, conducted across nearly 30 sectors and involving 4,640 adults, captures a mixed emotional response to AI under the term “FOBO” — Feeling Optimistic but Overwhelmed. While earlier attitudes were often dominated by fear of obsolescence, today’s workers more commonly describe their approach to AI as cautious (26%) or curious (23%).
This openness to AI is emerging alongside a sense of unpreparedness. Nearly a quarter (24%) say their employer is not providing sufficient support. Almost half (49%) state that their workplace has no formal guidelines for using AI, contributing to widespread uncertainty about how and when to apply the technology effectively.
The gap in structured support is mirrored in calls for improved training. Sixty percent of workers report they would use AI more confidently if they received proper instruction. Sectors such as transport and law enforcement highlighted specific challenges due to the absence of tailored, industry-relevant training.
Training Gaps Persist as Artificial Intelligence Use Increases
In-house training programmes, dedicated courses and hands-on learning experiences are viewed as the most effective ways to build confidence. With 57% of workers expecting to rely on AI in their daily roles within five years, the demand for structured guidance is growing. Over a third (37%) anticipate that AI will improve efficiency and productivity.
Professor Keiichi Nakata from the World of Work Institute, which commissioned the research, commented, “This wide-scale study offers a valuable snapshot of how AI is being adopted across UK industries – and where support is still lacking. What stands out is the clear desire from professionals to engage with AI, but many simply don’t feel equipped to do so.
“Businesses must act now to provide the right training and guidance. 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 ongoing concerns about automation, fear of job loss appears to be declining. While 36% of those surveyed remain concerned about being replaced by AI, 61% report no such fear. Instead, many workers are focused on potential practical benefits, such as assistance with repetitive tasks (33%), improved data interpretation (30%) and operational efficiencies (27%).
AI Integration Still Uneven Across Industries
Among current AI applications, the most common are research assistance (35%), data analysis (33%) and content generation (32%). On average, workers spend over three and a half hours each week using AI tools. While 54% consider AI a valuable addition to their workflow, many believe they are not yet using it to its full capacity.
At the same time, there is frustration around AI’s limitations. One in three respondents voiced concern about its potential to produce errors, underscoring the ongoing need for human oversight.
Transparency around AI use also varies significantly by sector. While 74% of respondents say they are open with their employer about using AI tools, professionals in scientific, charity and legal sectors report lower levels of disclosure. Workers in property and construction fields expressed concern that their organisations are falling behind in adopting the technology.
Professor 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.”
