24 Seven, a major marketing and creative talent solutions firm, has released its 2025 AI Impact Report, revealing a fundamental transformation in how organizations access and develop AI talent. The study, based on responses from nearly 1,000 professionals, shows unprecedented adoption rates, with 91% of organizations now using AI in their day-to-day operations. However, the research also uncovers a critical capability gap, as 32% of respondents describe their workforce's AI fluency as basic or very limited.
Quick Intel
91% of organizations now use AI in their day-to-day operations.
86% of companies plan to hire for new AI-focused roles in the next 12 months.
75% of organizations saw their budget for AI talent increase from the previous year.
A significant skills gap exists, with 32% of workforces having only basic AI fluency.
81% of respondents say contractors and consultants help bridge AI skills gaps.
The talent model is shifting from exclusive full-time hires to more agile, blended approaches.
The Widespread Adoption and Budget Surge for AI
The report highlights the rapid mainstreaming of AI within business functions. An overwhelming majority of organizations are not only using AI currently but are also planning for future growth, with 86% intending to hire for new AI-focused roles in the coming year. This strategic priority is backed by financial commitment, as three-quarters of surveyed organizations reported an increase in their budget dedicated specifically to AI talent, underscoring its importance to competitive strategy.
Bridging the Critical Capability Gap with Agile Talent
Despite widespread adoption, a significant fluency gap threatens to undermine AI investments. The finding that nearly a third of workforces have only a basic understanding of AI highlights an urgent need for upskilling and strategic external support. This is driving a shift in hiring models, with 81% of respondents acknowledging that contractors and consultants are key to bridging this skills gap, and 61% of organizations currently partnering with staffing firms to source the skilled AI talent they lack internally.
The 2025 AI Impact Report paints a picture of an industry at a pivotal moment. Organizations are fully committed to AI integration but are navigating a complex talent landscape. The successful companies will be those that adopt agile, blended talent strategies, combining strategic full-time hires with flexible external experts to build the necessary capabilities and close the critical fluency gap that could hinder their transformation.
24 Seven partners with companies to get marketing, creative, and digital work done by providing the right talent, innovation, and insights. The company drives meaningful impact by helping clients navigate change in today's evolving environment. Through its family of brands, including The Sage Group, SketchDeck, Simplicity Consulting, The Cydio Group, Marketers That Matter®, McKinley Marketing Partners, Filter Digital, CORE Resources, MTP, and Futureman, 24 Seven provides comprehensive talent solutions that enable organizations to achieve their business objectives.
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