New AI Report from Henley Business School: 56% of workers are feeling optimistic but overwhelmed when it comes to AI

Published on May 21, 2025

AI Optimism Grows, But Workers Still Feel Overwhelmed

We commissioned a survey of 4,640 full-time workers from across the UK to find out their attitudes towards AI.

New research from Henley Business School reveals that while over half of UK professionals (56%) feel optimistic about AI, 61% also feel overwhelmed by its rapid rise - a phenomenon Henley calls FOBO: Feeling Optimistic But Overwhelmed. The study, surveying 4,640 adults across nearly 30 sectors, found AI is most embraced in publishing, HR, and IT, while sectors like retail and education remain cautious.

Despite enthusiasm, many workers say they lack training and support. Almost a quarter (24%) feel their employer isn’t doing enough, and 60% say they’d use AI more if they were shown how. Training, clear guidelines, and leadership support are key to unlocking AI’s potential.

Henley’s World of Work Institute is calling on organisations to act now, or risk falling behind. With more workers expecting to rely on AI in the next five years, the time to prepare is now.

TOP SECTORS THAT EMBRACE AI

1. Information research and analysis

2. Information technology

3. Publishing and journalism

4. Recruitment and HR

5. Marketing, advertising and PR

TOP SECTORS THAT REMAIN HESITANT OF AI

1. Retail

2. Teaching and education

3. Public services and administration

4. Property and construction

5. Leisure, sport and tourism