Adecco Study Finds Gap Between AI Ambition and Workforce Readiness

May 21, 2026
A global study by the Adecco Group shows that while nearly half of business leaders expect AI agents to be integrated into workflows within a year, only a third have clear talent strategies to support employees through the transition.

The Adecco Group has published a global report highlighting a growing divide between companies' AI ambitions and their workforce readiness. The findings were announced in a press release following a survey of 2,000 c-suite executives across 13 countries overseeing more than 8.6 million workers.

The report, titled *The human premium: Leadership beyond the algorithm*, shows that 45 percent of business leaders expect AI agents to be integrated into workflows within the next 12 months. However, only 36 percent say their talent strategies clearly communicate how AI will create opportunities for employees.

The study indicates that while AI adoption is accelerating, many organizations lack leadership clarity, workforce trust, and capability building to achieve measurable results. Denis Machuel, CEO of the Adecco Group, stated that companies must combine technology with transparency and accountability to ensure workers can adapt effectively.

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