How to Help Your People Be AI Confident at Work

AI is showing up in the workplace faster than ever. But how do your employees really feel about using it?

Excited? Nervous? Or somewhere in between?

A recent study shows that four out of five workers now use AI in their daily jobs. More than half use AI assistants often to save time. Still, many people don’t feel entirely comfortable using these tools.

Some employees worry they’ll look lazy if they rely on AI. Others feel judged or questioned by coworkers.

People trust AI to help them work better. But they don’t always trust how others will react when they use it.

The truth is simple: AI is meant to help, not replace people. It should support strategy, creativity, and problem-solving.

But that only works if people feel confident using it.

Why AI Confidence Is Still a Problem

Only one in three workers has received any formal AI training. Most are learning by trial and error.

That leads to:

• Confusion

• Mistakes

• Mistrust

Managers are often more confident in AI (about 70%). But among junior staff, that number drops to around one in three.

That gap creates hesitation and slows adoption.

The Real Solution Starts with Culture

AI confidence isn’t just about tools. It’s about mindset.

Leaders need to show that experimenting with AI is encouraged, not punished.

Using AI is not cheating. It’s working smarter.

How to Build an AI Confident at Work Culture

To help your team become AI confident at work, focus on these steps:

• Encourage open conversations about AI

• Remove fear around “doing it wrong.”

• Offer basic AI training and guidance

• Host short workshops or “show and tell” sessions

• Let employees share how AI helps them save time

When people feel supported, they’re more willing to try new tools.

Final Thoughts

AI confidence doesn’t happen overnight. But when employees feel trusted and supported, they adopt AI faster and use it better.

That leads to:

• Better efficiency

• More creativity

• A team ready for the future of work

And that’s a win for everyone.