Slack’s Fall 2024 Workforce survey shows AI enthusiasm is waning — here’s why

The gradual cooling of AI workplace enthusiasm marks a significant shift in how employees and executives view artificial intelligence adoption and implementation in professional settings.

Key survey findings: A comprehensive study of over 17,000 desk workers across 15 countries reveals significant insights into AI adoption trends and workplace sentiment in 2024.

• Nearly all executives (99%) are planning AI investments this year, with 97% expressing urgency to integrate AI into business operations
• Worker enthusiasm for AI has declined for the first time since generative AI’s emergence, with adoption rates stalling in some countries and global excitement dropping by 6 percentage points
• A notable 48% of desk workers express discomfort about acknowledging their AI use to managers, citing concerns about appearing incompetent or lazy

Training and skill development gaps: Despite high executive interest in AI implementation, significant barriers exist in workforce preparation and training.

• 61% of desk workers report minimal AI exposure, having spent less than 5 hours learning AI tools
• 30% of workers have received no AI training whatsoever
• 76% of employees feel pressure to become AI experts, driven primarily by industry trends and personal career goals

Workplace culture challenges: A notable disconnect exists between worker expectations and workplace realities regarding AI implementation.

• Workers express concern that AI could increase workload rather than reduce it
• Many employees view AI use as potentially stigmatizing
• Learning and skill development tops both executive priorities and worker wishes for AI-enabled focus areas

Implementation recommendations: The study suggests several strategic approaches for organizations to improve AI adoption.

• Organizations should implement team-building exercises focused on AI integration
• Leadership should work to normalize AI use through increased visibility
• Companies need to redefine productivity metrics beyond traditional output measures
• Clear guidelines and permissions for AI use should be established
• Organizations can leverage younger, AI-savvy workers as mentors

Future implications: The emergence of an AI-native workforce generation will likely reshape workplace dynamics and employer preferences.

• The AI-native generation is positioned to set new standards for workplace AI utilization
• These same workers face increased risks of reduced social connection
• Job markets may increasingly favor employers with strong AI integration and training programs

Looking ahead: The cooling enthusiasm for AI presents both challenges and opportunities for organizations to develop more thoughtful, strategic approaches to AI implementation that address worker concerns while maximizing the technology’s benefits.