UK employees want a bigger say in shaping their workplaces as businesses navigate economic challenges and artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, according to a new survey.
The survey, by workflow platform monday.com, found that 67 percent of workers surveyed want more control over their company’s strategic direction, while 50 percent seek greater transparency regarding workplace and technological changes. At the same time, 38 percent are concerned that AI could replace tasks they enjoy.
Employees also expressed a strong understanding of their roles and responsibilities, with 92 percent reporting clarity on how their performance is assessed and 89 percent understanding their company’s broader goals. Despite this, many want to play a more active role in shaping their organisations. Seventy-two percent said they want a greater sense of ownership in their company, and 67 percent want more influence over its direction.
Workplace Changes and Employee Expectations
Amid shifting business priorities, employees noted the need for better communication and training to manage workplace transitions. Over the past year, 58 percent experienced changes in job duties, 58 percent saw adjustments to workplace tools or software and 55 percent observed changes in team size.
To navigate these changes , 53 percent of employees want clearer communication across roles and regions, while 52 percent call for improved training to manage workplace changes effectively. Half of those surveyed also stressed the need for greater transparency regarding the reasons behind organisational changes.
Ben Barnett, Regional Vice President, UK&I at monday.com, spoke of the importance of employee involvement in decision-making.
“It’s clear from the findings that UK employees are eager to take ownership of change. Rather than simply adapting to new developments, they want to play an active role in shaping them,” Barnett said.
AI Integration and Productivity
The survey found employees open to AI in the workplace, with 75 percent willing to use AI tools to support their roles. The same percentage reported a positive view of AI features within existing workplace tools. Among employees already using AI, 90 percent said it reduces time spent on manual or repetitive tasks, 81 percent found it improved problem-solving, and 81 percent reported that it boosted their creativity.
However, employees also expressed concerns about AI’s impact. Thirty-eight percent worry that AI may replace tasks they enjoy, and 29 percent are concerned it could put their jobs at risk. Additionally, 33 percent believe AI needs to improve in automation capabilities, such as task routines and security, while another 33 percent see room for improvements in areas like resource management and software development.
Barnett noted that businesses should focus on trust and transparency when implementing AI.
“AI, for all its potential, is only as good as the trust and transparency surrounding its use. Businesses that see AI as a way to enhance rather than replace human potential will be best positioned for success,” he said.
With AI adoption growing and workplace expectations changing, UK employees are calling for better strategies to manage these developments. The research found that 88 percent believe stronger collaboration tools and digital strategies are essential for maximising productivity.
“The UK’s dynamic business environment positions its companies to set a global benchmark for managing change,” Barnett said.
He added that organisations should evolve with their people rather than apart from them.
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
