As AI agents are being swiftly integrated in workplaces around the world, employees are increasingly drawing clear lines around how these technologies should be used, according to new global research from Workday.
The report shows that 82% of organizations are moving quickly to implement AI agents, motivated by expectations that they will reduce workloads and drive financial performance. While three-quarters of employees are comfortable working alongside AI, far fewer are willing to accept being managed by it.
Only 30% of those surveyed said they were comfortable with AI agents in a supervisory role, and less than half view these tools as true members of the workforce. The findings suggest that employees are largely open to AI as a support tool, but not as a decision-maker or authority figure.
Trust in AI varies by task. Workers are more likely to accept AI-driven decisions in areas such as IT infrastructure or technology provisioning, where processes are already heavily automated. However, there is greater hesitation when it comes to roles that involve human judgment, such as hiring, internal mobility, and compensation planning.
In HR functions where automation is already common — such as payroll or benefits administration — the introduction of AI agents is not seen as particularly transformative. Conversely, areas like workforce planning and policy development are viewed as opportunities where AI could add more value.
To build greater trust in AI systems, the report highlights the importance of training and exposure. Familiarity with AI tools tends to increase employee confidence in how organizations deploy them. Strategic implementation that keeps human needs at the forefront is also seen as key to successful adoption.
Overall, while enthusiasm for AI in the workplace is strong, the findings suggest employees want it to enhance — not replace — human decision-making.
