British employees are increasingly optimistic about artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, with 63 percent feeling energised about its potential – but their employers are not keeping up with the hype, according to new research.
The study, by collaboration platform Miro, also found that 82 percent of employees believe the technology can positively impact their daily tasks and responsibilities. Despite this enthusiasm, many workers report a disconnect between their willingness to adopt AI and their organisation’s readiness to implement it effectively.
Over half (51%) describe their employer as “all talk, and no action” on AI adoption. More than a third (36%) say their organisation frequently abandons AI initiatives, leaving staff unsure of how and when to engage with the tools available.
The findings suggest that many employees are eager to embrace AI, but often lack the structure, support and strategic direction needed to do so effectively. Half (52%) of respondents said they struggle to know when AI is appropriate to use in their roles.
Rory Keddie, Product Evangelist at Miro, commented, “It’s hugely encouraging to see the enthusiasm for AI across workers in the UK, and the benefits are starting to be widely felt. What is quite evident however is that businesses themselves need to mirror employee excitement with practical guidance, support and ‘follow through’ – turning this energy into actual execution.”
Confidence gap and skills misperception hinder adoption
The report noted a growing “AI-inferiority complex” among workers. Many respondents rate their own skills in AI as lower than those of their peers. Workers are 34 percent more likely to describe their AI knowledge as weak or non-existent compared to their team members. As a result, around 30 percent of respondents admit to exaggerating their AI abilities at work.
This perception gap appears to stem from a lack of structured training and clear guidance. Without organisational support, many workers feel pressure to self-educate and demonstrate confidence in a rapidly evolving field. The study suggests that a lack of formal upskilling may be reinforcing insecurities about AI capability across teams.
In response, workers have clearly identified what they need from their organisations. Nearly half (49%) called for formal AI training programmes, while 38 percent said businesses should better communicate the benefits of AI tools. A further 37 percent want employers to clarify their broader AI adoption strategies.
Keddie added, “Whilst Brits are likely to downplay their AI skills, it’s important that their employers support their enthusiasm. It’s by experimenting with AI (within safe boundaries) that confidence will build, and organisations themselves will succeed – bringing better products and services to market faster and harnessing the power of AI.”
Practical use cases emerging, but execution must improve
Despite the uncertainty, employees are already incorporating AI into their workflows. Common applications include content writing and editing (32%), data analysis (32%), research (29%), and taking or summarising meeting notes and action items (29%).
However, without a unified strategy or clear direction from leadership, many workers are left experimenting in isolation. While this independent approach demonstrates initiative, it also increases the risk of inconsistent adoption and missed opportunities.
Miro’s research indicates that UK businesses are at a critical point. Workers have embraced AI in principle and begun integrating it into practical tasks, but this momentum may be lost unless leaders invest in infrastructure, training and sustained support to embed the technology across functions.
Alessandra Pacelli is a journalist and author contributing to HRreview, an HR news and opinion publication, where she covers topics including labour market trends, employment costs, and workplace issues. She is a journalism graduate and self-described lifelong dog lover who has also written for Dogs Today magazine since 2014.
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
