A new global survey by GoTo and Workplace Intelligence outlines how businesses can bridge the growing gap between the promise of AI and its day-to-day impact. The "Pulse of Work in 2025" report, based on responses from 2,500 knowledge workers and IT leaders across 10 countries, offers a reality check and an opportunity: AI adoption is rising, but its potential remains largely untapped.

Here are 5 key takeaways:

1. 62% of Employees Believe AI is Overhyped

Despite the growing presence of AI tools, a significant portion of employees remain skeptical. While 78% report using AI in some form, 62% feel the technology is overhyped, indicating a gap between expectation and perceived value.

2. $2.9 Trillion in Potential Productivity Gains

Employees spend an average of 2.6 hours daily on tasks that could be automated. According to the report, closing this gap could unlock $2.9 trillion in annual productivity gains for U.S. businesses alone.

3. 86% Say They’re Not Using AI to Its Full Potential

Whether due to limited access or lack of training, most employees feel underprepared to leverage AI effectively. The issue spans generations, with both Gen Z (78%) and Baby Boomers (92%) citing underuse.

4. Only 45% of IT Leaders Have Clear AI Policies

Organizational readiness remains limited. Less than half of IT leaders say their companies have formal policies for AI usage, and nearly half admit they don’t effectively measure AI’s ROI.

5. Small Investment Could Yield Big Results

The report estimates that a modest investment—just $20 per employee monthly—on AI training and access could save one hour of work per day per employee, equating to 6.5 weeks of annual productivity gains.

Bridging the Gap Between Hype and Impact

Beyond the statistics, the survey paints a larger picture of opportunity. Trust in AI tools remains fragile. Around 86% of employees are uncertain about the reliability of AI-generated outputs, often needing to double-check or revise what the tools produce.

Access is also uneven. While AI tools for automation, communication, and content generation are cited as highly beneficial, fewer than half of employees have consistent access to them—especially in smaller companies.

Meanwhile, the misuse of AI for sensitive tasks—such as emotional intelligence or personnel decisions—raises new concerns, with 54% of employees admitting to such usage despite policy risks.

The report underscores the need for clear internal guidelines, better alignment between IT leaders and employees, and structured rollouts with measurable goals. Crucially, both groups agree that comprehensive training is the missing link.

A Constructive Outlook

The findings aren’t all cautionary. Instead, they point toward what’s possible when businesses invest in strategy, training, and responsible deployment. AI’s role in the workplace is still taking shape—and companies that take a proactive, people-first approach may be best positioned to lead this transformation.