Trust helps people adapt, but it is not enough. Workers also need confidence in their own ability to keep learning as AI changes roles, skills, and expectations.
AI proficiency is linked to healthier work relationships. 32% of Knowledge Workers using AI agents are in the Healthy WRI Zone, compared with 28% of those using generative AI only and 21% of those not using AI.
But greater AI fluency also raises the pressure to keep developing new skills. Knowledge Workers using AI agents are more likely than those using generative AI alone to worry that their role will become harder to define (74% vs. 39%) or be replaced by AI (44% vs. 37%).
Not every generation feels equally prepared to take on that challenge.
Gen Z and Millennials are more likely than Gen X and Boomers to believe they have the skills to succeed, can continue learning to stay relevant, and remain competitive in today's job market.
When workers believe they have opportunities to grow, they are better able to see change as something they can navigate, making learning and development powerful tools for retention. Businesses that invest in helping people build future-ready skillsets provide workers with confidence that they have a future inside the organization, even as work itself continues to evolve.
A closer look: Why Gen X feels caught in the middle
The generational data shows a clear divide. Gen Z and Millennials appear more comfortable adapting to change: they have higher WRI scores, more confidence in leadership, and greater comfort with AI agents. Boomers, closer to retirement, feel less pressure to change how they work.
Gen X is caught in the middle. They face real pressure to adapt to new technology and ways of working but have less career-stage flexibility than younger workers.
As a result, their leadership confidence is also weaker: 51% trust management to make the right decisions, and 49% trust senior leaders to make the right decisions for employees. Gen X also has the lowest healthy relationship with work score this year, making clear support and communication especially important for this group.
Upskilling has become a core resilience strategy.
Workers are looking to develop broader, more future-oriented skillsets; leaders who invest in continuous learning give employees the confidence to adapt alongside AI rather than fear it, encouraging a belief that they have a future within the organization.