Global Talent Barometer 2026: AI Use Accelerates as Worker Confidence Falls and "Job Hugging" Takes Hold

New ManpowerGroup data shows rapid AI adoption colliding with a growing training gap, leaving workers struggling to keep pace with technological change. MILWAUKEE, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Workers around the world are adopting AI faster than ever, but that adoption is no longer translating into confidence. According to ManpowerGroup's 2026 Global Talent Barometer, regular AI usage jumped 13% to 45% of workers, while confidence in using technology fell sharply by 18%. For the first time in three years, ...