Navigating the AI era: Adoption and workforce change

AI adoption is accelerating and organizations are preparing for a future where business processes and talent strategy must regularly adapt to emerging technologies. Get insights that reveal how companies are investing in AI, the outcomes they expect and what it means for the workforce.

Most companies are leveraging AI

Learn about AI’s impact on hiring

88%

of managers say their team is currently leveraging AI.

57%

are highly optimistic about AI and proactively integrating it into business workflows.

85%

of current users are increasing investment in AI.

Roles reshaped, not replaced

Advanced technical skills

Complementary soft skills (critical thinking, problem solving, adaptability)

Enhancing productivity without changing core responsibilities

Streamlining workflows for strategic focus

Shifting tasks to more meaningful work

Gen Z Millennials Gen X Baby boomers

Helping employees adapt

Companies are investing in their people as much as their technology. Though only 35% of workers feel very confident in their ability to leverage AI tools effectively, leaders are helping employees understand AI’s impact on their work and offering opportunities to upskill as their roles evolve. Organizations are providing:

Access to online learning resources

Clear guidelines on appropriate use

Formal training on AI tools

Article: Accelerate AI adoption

How staffing firms strengthen your talent strategy

Working with a staffing firm helps businesses find future‑ready talent, close AI‑related skills gaps and adapt quickly as technology evolves.

The top reasons leaders work with one are to:

Identify AI-related skills gaps

Assess workforce needs

Guide teams on effective AI use

Locate candidates with in‑demand AI skills

Manage higher volumes of AI-enhanced applications

Support staffing needs for AI projects

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How staffing firms can help

Staffing firms are helping companies evaluate talent, validate their skills and avoid costly hiring mistakes.

67% say they’re more likely to seek support from a staffing firm to help navigate AI-related hiring challenges.

89% of hiring managers say staffing firms have been effective in addressing AI-related hiring challenges.

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More to explore

AI research and insights Discover research and practical insights to help leaders understand emerging AI trends, adopt new tools, streamline workflows and stay ahead of risks.

Demand for Skilled Talent Check out our Demand for Skilled Talent report to learn about employers’ hiring plans and needs.

Labor market overview Stay on top of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and job posting data to learn about today’s hiring market.

2026 Salary Guide Explore the latest data for roles across 7 professional fields and what you should pay or earn in local and national markets.

Small business recruitment trends Get up to speed on small business staffing trends and find out what it takes to attract and hire top talent.

The surveys cited were developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. Results may not total 100% due to rounding or allowing for multiple responses. Respondents included hiring managers and workers from small (10-99 employees), midsize (100-999 employees) and large (1,000+ employees) businesses in private, publicly listed and public sector organizations across the U.S.