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Survey shows rapid AI adoption, but a critical training gap, as automation accelerates.
While 72% of U.S. hiring managers say their company uses AI — up from 66% last fall — 55% admit their company doesn’t have the resources or training to help employees use it effectively.
This is according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.
Employers Embrace AI, But Fear Falling Behind
AI’s promise of productivity and collaboration has driven adoption, with 34% of companies using it regularly, a jump from 25% last year. And the long-term strategy seems clear: 76% of hiring decision-makers agree training employees on AI is essential for success. Yet readiness gaps loom large, not only for employers but also for workers.
In fact, more than half of employed job seekers (54%) share the same concern about their own companies lacking resources or training, underscoring a widespread challenge across the workforce.
AI: Ally or Job Killer?
Job seekers agree training is critical, with 75% believing it’s essential for companies to succeed, but anxiety runs deep. Nearly two-thirds (64%) worry AI will significantly limit job opportunities, and 47% fear their job could be eliminated entirely.
Concerns spike among Gen Z (74%) and lower-income workers (70%). Gender differences also emerge: employed men are more likely than women to fear being replaced (52% vs. 43%).
Beyond job loss, many fear skills will erode:
- 37% say employees will put in less effort
- 37% worry about losing creativity
- 36% fear problem-solving will decline
- 35% cite skill development loss
- 32% predict weaker collaboration
Despite Concerns, Job Seekers Turn to AI
Even as they worry, job seekers are leveraging AI to get ahead. The majority believe it’s appropriate to use generative AI for key steps in the job hunt:
- 82% for drafting resumes and cover letters
- 69% for creating professional headshots
- 53% for answering interview questions in real time
Survey Methodology
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from June 2 to 28, 2025, among 1,000 U.S. hiring decision-makers.
The Job Seeker Report was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express Employment Professionals from June 12 to 27, 2025, among 1,000 adults ages 18 and older.
For full survey methodologies, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.
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If you would like to arrange an interview with the Franchise Owner, Chris Petty, call 541-389-1505.
About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing 492,000 people globally in 2023 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.
The Central Oregon Express office is located at 296 SW Columbia, Suite B, Bend, Oregon 97702 and serves Deschutes, Crook & Jefferson counties. Local businesses and applicants are encouraged to stop by, visit www.expresspros.com/bendor or call 541-389-1505.
