Recent studies highlight a significant gap in AI training among UK employees, emphasising the urgent need for skill development.
- One in five employees, approximately 6.31 million individuals, have yet to receive proper training in AI technologies within their organisations.
- While 70% of the workforce is engaging with AI tools, over a third admit a deficiency in essential soft skills necessary for effective use.
- Industry leaders stress the critical need for enhancing human-AI collaboration through improved communication and emotional understanding.
- The transformative potential of AI in the workplace is seen as substantial, yet hinges on the development of complementary human skills.
In an era where artificial intelligence is increasingly integral to workplace operations, recent research by GoodHabitz reveals a troubling reality: a significant portion of the UK workforce remains untrained in effectively working with AI technologies. This survey, conducted with Censuswide, indicates that one in five employees, numbering some 6.31 million, have not been adequately trained by their employers to use AI tools effectively.
The implications of this training gap are profound. Despite 70% of employees using AI in their jobs, 34% report lacking the necessary soft and human skills required to fully capitalise on technological advancements. As Chris Chen, Chief Technology Officer of GoodHabitz, points out, “AI is changing everything about how we work and think, but most of our people aren’t ready for it.”
The research underscores the need for a balanced skill set that includes effective communication, emotional intelligence, and the ability to integrate AI within team workflows. Without this, UK companies risk falling behind globally. Ed Monk, CEO of the Learning and Performance Institute, describes the situation as a “wake-up call for UK businesses,” stressing the importance of equipping employees with both AI literacy and uniquely human skills such as critical thinking and adaptability.
Findings from the report show that 48% of workers acknowledge an increased need for skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical thinking due to AI’s influence. Notably, 66% of employees state that AI has allowed them to achieve tasks previously beyond their capabilities, highlighting its transformative potential. On average, AI usage is saving employees 37 minutes per day, equivalent to over 150 hours annually.
The urgency for national upskilling initiatives is emphasised, with GoodHabitz responding by offering an AI-enhanced learning platform to address these needs. Despite 68% of employees feeling prepared for AI, significant skill gaps exist, as 47% still favour their traditional skills over AI tools, pointing towards a lack of AI literacy and trust.
To fully realise AI’s potential and maintain competitive, immediate and comprehensive employee training in AI technologies is essential.
