A survey from AIResumeBuilder.com has found that artificial intelligence is no longer optional in many workplaces. According to the report, based on responses from 1,295 US business leaders, 58 per cent of companies now require employees to use AI tools, and 1 in 10 of those say they fire employees who refuse.
The survey reveals that nearly one-quarter of companies (24 per cent) mandate AI use across all roles, while another 34 per cent require it only for certain employees. An additional 19 per cent strongly encourage AI adoption without requiring it. Company leaders cite productivity gains, improved work quality, and innovation as key reasons behind their push.
Among those that require AI use, 65 per cent respond to resistance by offering additional training or coaching. However, others take disciplinary steps: 36 per cent reassign employees to new roles, 35 per cent limit promotion opportunities, 32 per cent reduce responsibilities, and 10 per cent terminate employees who do not comply.
“The trend of incorporating AI in the workplace is only going to accelerate, and candidates who showcase AI skills in interviews and employees who use it effectively will stand out,” says Rachel Serwetz, career advisor at AIResumeBuilder.com. “Companies have every reason to encourage AI adoption for productivity gains, but they should also invest in training employees on the risks of over-reliance so that AI becomes a tool for efficiency and creativity, not a crutch.”
Employers report that workers often resist AI out of fear of job loss (52 per cent), concerns about AI’s accuracy (52 per cent), or discomfort with new technologies (49 per cent). Other reasons include data privacy concerns, ethical worries, and environmental considerations. Resistance is most commonly observed among Baby Boomers (35 per cent) and Gen X (31 per cent), compared to just 8 per cent of Gen Z workers.
“Employers can help older workers get more comfortable with AI not just through training but also through hands-on sessions like hackathons where they can safely experiment with tools alongside colleagues who can teach and guide them,” said Serwetz. “These low-risk environments build muscle memory, confidence, and curiosity, turning AI from something intimidating into something empowering.”
