American Management Association Releases New Research on How Organizations Are Progressing with Artificial Intelligence, Though Many Employees Feel Left Behind

NEW YORK, March 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Even compared with the most groundbreaking technologies of the past, the accelerating advancement and transformative impact of artificial intelligence is unprecedented. This begs the question: Are organizations and their employees coping with AI as fast as they need to at such a pivotal moment? According to recent research, there is cause for concern.

American Management Association (AMA), a world leader in professional development, recently surveyed 1,100+ individual contributors, managers and senior leaders throughout North America to gain insights into how they are contending with AI in their organizations.

"Many if not most organizations understand the incredible opportunity AI presents when its potential is recognized and embraced," says AMA President & Chief Executive Officer Manny Avramidis. "Businesses that invest in training their employees and develop strategic AI plans are more likely to gain a competitive edge, drive innovation and improve efficiencies. Taking proactive steps now is essential to reduce the risk of falling behind."

Last year AMA's survey on AI in the workplace indicated that the vast majority of North American organizations had not yet harnessed AI technologies and weren't prepared to do so. A year later, this trend has shifted. By December 2024, many more organizations were leveraging AI, developing strategies and implementing governance. These initiatives are producing significant benefits.

The research also showed that many employees (57% of respondents) feel "behind" in keeping up with AI. In fact, less than half, 49%, have received training in AI. In addition, 44% of respondents said AI tools are being used without a centralized approach.

Despite the progress made, many organizations need to catch up, and fast.

The survey results also indicated progress. According to Avramidis, "Organizations started to take AI much more seriously in 2024." Survey respondents in 2024 were much more at ease with how their managers are handling AI. Nearly two thirds (63%) said they trust managers to use AI fairly and with transparency, compared to about one third (34%) last year. The results also showed that AI earns greater trust among employees when their organizations establish a strategy for governing and managing it. 

Despite AI's growing popularity and effectiveness, AMA's research suggests that more professionals need to be trained in AI, as well as opportunities and guidance enabling them to implement what they have learned. In addition, essential business skills come into play in doing so.

"AI is a tool that lets people use their time more efficiently and work more intelligently," explains Avramidis, "but these new responsibilities require more advanced skills in other areas as well."

Indeed, when asked which soft skills would help them apply AI more effectively, survey responses included such core business skills as problem solving (53%), communication (51%), analytical skills (49%) and critical thinking (47%).

A real-world problem in terms of implementing these changes is the fact that many organizations simply may not have the time or resources to devote to harnessing AI's benefits.  So what can they do to make sure they're not left behind?

AMA's research suggests the answer is to embrace AI even if it means starting small. For example, using simple tools such as ChatGPT to brainstorm and collaborate on a regular basis can help raise awareness and alleviate uneasiness with the technology.

The survey also made clear that knowledge workers are hungry for learning and development. "Training is essential," says Avramidis, "but it's important to remember it's an ongoing process.  People need opportunities to apply what they have learned, so they can see the impact learning has on their everyday lives."

By doing so, organizations can improve employees' confidence in using AI tools and empower them to adjust and adapt to ever-increasing change in the business world.

For over 100 years, American Management Association (AMA) has helped millions of people, through its world-class training and development programs, bring about positive change in their performance in order to improve business results. Learn more: www.amanet.org

Read our complimentary Whitepaper, Organizations Make Progress Adopting AI but Many Employees Feel Left Behind.

Media Contact:
Lauren McNally
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SOURCE American Management Association