Overview

• BSI surveyed more than 850 business leaders across seven countries, including the UK, US, France, Germany, Australia, China and Japan.
• 41% of respondents said AI had enabled them to reduce employee numbers, reflecting a shift from projections to reported actions.
• Nearly a third (31%) said their organisation looks to AI before hiring, and two-fifths expect that approach to become standard within five years.
• Two-fifths (39%) reported cutting or reducing entry-level roles, with a quarter saying most tasks done by junior staff could be handled by AI.
• Three-quarters (76%) expect tangible AI benefits within 12 months, yet company reports emphasise “automation” about seven times more than “upskilling,” and only 56% offer structured AI learning; related research flags higher risks for young workers and women.