The Predictive Index (PI), a leading data-driven HR platform for hiring top performers, developing managers, and retaining talent, has released findings from its 2025 AI at Work survey conducted by Centiment. This national study of 1,000 U.S. professionals highlights a shift where workplace optimism about AI surpasses adoption-related anxiety, positioning the technology as a career enhancer rather than a threat. However, a notable lag in leadership trust underscores the need for greater transparency and inclusion in AI strategies.
The survey signals a maturing perspective on AI, with most respondents embracing it as a tool to boost personal effectiveness, fortify organizational culture, and unlock professional pathways. This enthusiasm contrasts with persistent concerns over job displacement, reflecting broader trends in AI HR solutions where technology supports rather than supplants human roles. Yet, rising expectations for executive transparency reveal a disconnect: while employees seek inclusive dialogue, leadership communication often falls short, exacerbating uncertainty in AI-driven workplaces.
A key revelation is the flipped trust dynamic—employees favor insights from colleagues and HR over C-suite leaders or external experts when navigating AI's implications. This stems from perceived gaps in executive involvement, compounded by economic pressures and strained employer relations. The findings emphasize behavioral science's role in talent optimization, urging HR platforms to facilitate open forums that amplify employee voices in AI implementation.
Over two-thirds of respondents demand robust training during AI adoption, viewing it as a pathway to confidence and respect from employers. With 67% anticipating cultural enhancements from AI, organizations can leverage these tools to foster collaboration and innovation. However, skepticism toward HR's equitable management—held by 70%—calls for data-driven strategies that ensure fairness, aligning with PI's focus on objective hiring and engagement in evolving work environments.
"Too many employees aren't hearing enough from executives about AI, so they're turning to peers and HR to fill in the blanks," said Matt Poepsel, Vice President and Godfather of Talent Optimization at PI. "What's underlying all of this is trust, a gap that has less to do with the technology itself and more to do with a tight job market, economic uncertainty, and a strained employer-employee relationship that's been building for years."
"AI adoption is fundamentally a people challenge," added Poepsel. "Leaders who slow down, listen and understand their people's behavioral drives will adapt their rollout more effectively. When you know how someone processes change, you can coach them through it. That's when adoption becomes sustainable."
Organizations leveraging behavioral insights can customize AI rollouts—offering early access to innovators while providing structured support to adapters—turning optimism into sustained adoption. By prioritizing transparency, upskilling, and trust-building, HR leaders position their teams to thrive in the AI era, transforming potential disruptions into opportunities for retention and performance.
For comprehensive insights, including PI's HR Playbook for the AI Era eBook, visit https://www.predictiveindex.com/learn/talent-op....
The Predictive Index (PI) is the data-driven HR platform to hire top performers, develop effective managers, and retain your people. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries.
TechIntelPro empowers B2B technology decision-makers with the latest industry trends, deep insights, leadership perspectives and actionable intelligence to drive both organizational and professional milestones—and thrive on the tech pulse.