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American Management Association, AMA Survey: how north american leaders are adapting to AI
AI is advancing in companies, but employees are struggling to keep up: training and governance become key elements for effective integration
Isabella V19 March 2025

 

The American Management Association (AMA) recently surveyed more than 1,100 professionals in North America, revealing that despite an increase in AI adoption among organizations, 57% of employees feel they are lagging behind in adapting to these technologies. Only 49% of respondents have received specific AI training, and 44% reported using AI tools without a centralized strategy. However, managers’ confidence in managing AI has increased from 34% to 63% in the past year.

Key Points:

  • Increasing adoption of AI among organizations.
  • Majority of employees feel they are lagging behind in adapting to AI.
  • Less than half of workers have received AI training.
  • Managers’ confidence in managing AI is increasing.


AI is rapidly transforming the global workplace, accelerating faster than previous technological innovations. The American Management Association (AMA), a global leader in professional development, recently surveyed more than 1,100 North American associates, managers, and senior executives to understand how organizations are embracing AI and how employees are feeling about this transition.

The survey found that many companies recognize the opportunities that AI presents and are investing in AI strategy and governance. However, a significant portion of employees, 57%, feel “behind” in keeping pace with AI, and less than half have received adequate AI training. Additionally, 44% of respondents reported using AI tools without a centralized approach, indicating a possible lack of strategic coordination.

Despite these challenges, trust in managers to manage AI is increasing, with nearly two-thirds of respondents (63%) believing their managers are using AI fairly and transparently, up from about one-third (34%) the previous year. This increase in trust is often associated with clear and structured strategies for AI governance within organizations.

AMA research highlights the importance of investing in ongoing employee training not only in technical AI skills, but also in soft skills such as problem solving, communication, analytical skills, and critical thinking. These skills are essential to effectively apply AI in the workplace and to address the new responsibilities that come with it.

Another obstacle to effective AI adoption is the potential lack of time and resources within organizations. To address this, the AMA suggests starting with small steps, such as using simple tools like ChatGPT for brainstorming and collaboration, to increase familiarity and reduce discomfort with the technology.

It is clear that training must be seen as an ongoing process, providing employees with opportunities to apply the new skills acquired to see the concrete impact on their daily work. This approach can increase trust in the use of AI tools and facilitate adaptation to the ongoing changes in the business world.

As organizations make progress in AI adoption, it is essential to focus on employee training and support to ensure an effective and inclusive transition to an increasingly AI-influenced future of work.