Leaders are moving faster than their organisations

Gallup’s latest research exposes a growing AI adoption gap inside organisations where AI tools are already available.

Leaders are surging ahead, while everyone else hesitates.
67% of leaders use AI frequently (a few times a week or more)
52% of managers do the same
46% of individual contributors keep pace

This isn’t because leaders care more about AI, it is because AI fits naturally into their work: writing, planning, analysing, decision‑making.

For many employees, AI still feels bolted on, risky, or vaguely “not for me”.

When employees strongly agree AI fits into their workflows, 88% are frequent users — versus 55% when it doesn’t

When managers actively support AI use, 78% become frequent users — compared with 44% without that support

It isn't an AI problem, it is an environmental and design one.

The biggest lever isn’t the technology. It’s managers translating strategy into daily behaviour.

If they don’t role‑model AI use, protect experimentation, and reward learning then adoption fails.

There is a real risk that those with the time, leaders accelerate ahead while the organisation watches from the pavement.

SOURCE

https://www.gallup.com/workplace/704252/workplace-separates-adopters-holdouts.aspx

BeSci AI OPINION

This is a fascinating dynamic. With a high usage amongst leaders, this gives the opportunity to advise and 'nudge' leaders through the AI tools they are using.