September 08, 2025
Majority of U.S. Companies Now Require AI Use, Survey Finds
Artificial intelligence has quickly shifted from optional to essential in the modern workplace. According to a new survey from AIResumeBuilder.com, based on responses from 1,295 U.S. business leaders, 58% of companies now require employees to use AI tools. Among those, 1 in 10 admits to firing employees who refuse.
The report shows that 24% of companies mandate AI across all roles, while another 34% require it for specific positions. An additional 19% stop short of mandating AI but strongly encourage its use. Employers say their push is driven by measurable benefits, including higher productivity, improved work quality, and greater innovation.
“The trend of incorporating AI in the workplace is only going to accelerate, and candidates who showcase AI skills in interviews and employees who use it effectively will stand out,” says Rachel Serwetz, career advisor at AIResumeBuilder.com. “Companies have every reason to encourage AI adoption for productivity gains, but they should also invest in training employees on the risks of overreliance so that AI becomes a tool for efficiency and creativity, not a crutch.”
While many organisations aim to support reluctant workers, not all take a gentle approach. Among companies that require AI use, 65% offer extra training or coaching for hesitant employees. Others use disciplinary measures: 36% reassign resistant employees to new roles, 35% block promotion opportunities, 32% reduce responsibilities, and 10% resort to termination.
Why Workers Push Back Against AI
Despite its rapid adoption, not all employees embrace AI. 52% resist due to fear of job loss, 52% due to concerns about accuracy, and 49% due to discomfort with new technologies. Additional reasons include privacy risks, ethical concerns, and environmental impacts. Resistance is especially high among Baby Boomers (35%) and Gen X (31%), compared to just 8% of Gen Z workers.
