Canadian workers lead the world in AI optimism, and now it’s time to turn that into action.

Canadian workers are approaching artificial intelligence with more optimism than their global counterparts, according to a new Workforce of the Future report from the Adecco Group. Drawing on responses from 1,010 Canadian employees, the survey found high confidence in the role AI will play in shaping new jobs and evolving existing ones.

The report shows that 86 per cent of respondents believe AI is creating more jobs, while 57 per cent say roles are changing rather than disappearing. Canadians also report higher trust in AI, scoring it 6.2 out of 10 compared with 4.5 globally.

While optimism is strong, the results reveal a new opportunity: bridging the gap between how employees are using AI and how businesses can unlock its full productivity potential. With workers saving over three hours a day using AI, the next step is connecting those gains to business outcomes. Just over half of employees say they can confidently measure their impact at work, signalling a moment for employers to sharpen how success is tracked and celebrated.

The survey shows high expectations for rapid AI adoption. Eighty-one per cent of respondents believe their employer will integrate AI agents into workflows within the next year. Half say they are already involved in shaping how their work is being redesigned, far higher than the global average of 30 per cent. “AI is integrated into working life, and employees are optimistic about the future. But as technology momentum builds, they need to understand how they will fit into the new world of work and start developing their careers accordingly,” the report notes.

AI training offers a clear edge for SMB employers

A separate survey from Robert Half, published by HR Reporter, shows that enthusiasm for AI is outpacing support and training. Nearly three in ten workers say they have relied on informal or self-guided learning to adapt to AI tools in their jobs. One quarter says they have not received training at all. Only 21 per cent of the 360 workers surveyed say their workplace has provided structured support, and 17 per cent report their employer is not requiring them to use AI.

These findings underscore a challenge for SMBs that often operate without dedicated training teams or formal upskilling programs. Without clear guidance, workers may experiment with tools in ways that are inconsistent or misaligned with business needs. For HR leaders, the data shows a moment of alignment is needed — as employees surge ahead, there’s a clear chance for SMEs to catch up and scale with purpose.

AI aims to reshape team dynamics

AI is also influencing how teams interact. According to an Express Employment Professionals–Harris Poll survey, 67 per cent of companies say AI has made employees more productive in group settings. More than half report improved real-time collaboration and an increase in outreach among coworkers seeking help. Job seekers echo these findings, with 56 per cent saying AI has improved productivity in team environments and 51 per cent reporting easier collaboration. “Collaboration remains the foundation of successful teams,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO and chairman of Express Employment International. “AI can help by removing repetitive tasks and clearing roadblocks. The real opportunity is learning how to use these tools to strengthen, not sideline, human connection.”

For SMB employers, AI offers a powerful way to boost both efficiency and collaboration. Smaller teams thrive on cross-functional problem-solving, and when implemented with intention, AI can enhance that by freeing up time, surfacing smarter insights and removing repetitive tasks that block creative momentum. The key is clear guidance and a shared vision, so teams feel supported as they experiment, learn and evolve together. With the right approach, AI becomes a catalyst for stronger, more connected teams.

As AI adoption accelerates, Canadian workers are showing real confidence in what this tech can unlock. The next opportunity for businesses is to back that optimism with the right training and clear expectations, so productivity gains grow as fast as employee momentum. For SMEs and HR leaders, this is a chance to roll out AI in a way that lifts performance and strengthens the human habits great teams depend on every day.