TriNet, a leading provider of comprehensive human resources solutions for small and medium-size businesses (SMBs), has released findings from a new survey conducted with Harvard Business Review Analytic Services. Titled 'The New Talent Playbook for Small and Midsize Businesses in the Age of AI,' the report reveals that 76% of SMB leaders expect to increase AI use in the next 12 months, yet only 19% feel highly prepared to recruit or develop the necessary AI skills, pointing to a significant capability gap.
Quick Intel
The survey of 230 respondents familiar with their SMB's U.S. talent practices highlights AI's accelerating role in daily operations while exposing readiness challenges. SMBs recognize AI's transformative potential but face hurdles in building the workforce capabilities needed to leverage it effectively.
"AI is fundamentally transforming the way SMBs operate," said Catherine Wragg, Chief People Officer at TriNet. "At TriNet, our commitment to putting SMB customers at the center of everything we do drives us to understand their evolving needs. This research underscores that while SMBs are moving swiftly to embrace AI, many are still navigating the best ways to equip their people for this new era." She continued, "Embracing AI presents an opportunity to not only adopt new technology, but also to reimagine workforce strategies, planning, and skill development, empowering SMBs to accelerate AI adoption and unlock exciting new avenues for workforce growth and success."
Nearly half (49%) of respondents anticipate difficulty training or upskilling current employees on AI, and 37% expect challenges in evaluating candidates' AI skills and experience. Despite these obstacles, 79% agree that AI is driving the need to upskill existing talent, reflecting a strong commitment to future-proofing workforces.
The findings also emphasize the rising value of uniquely human skills that AI cannot replicate. A majority (70%) note that AI increases the need for talent with creativity, intuition, discernment, emotional intelligence, judgment, and industry experience—qualities essential for ethical AI deployment and effective human-AI collaboration.
These insights suggest SMBs must balance rapid AI adoption with strategic investments in both technical and human-centered capabilities. By prioritizing upskilling, role redesign, and clear skill identification, organizations can close the preparedness gap and position their teams for sustainable success in an AI-augmented environment.
About TriNet
TriNet is a leading provider of Human Resources solutions for small and medium-size businesses, offering advanced technology-enabled services that include human capital expertise, employee benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, payroll and payroll tax administration, risk mitigation, and compliance consulting. Our long-term objective is to be the premier provider of HR services for a broad range of SMBs through industry leading benefits, sales distribution excellence, and a world class services delivery model.
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