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

Core Insights - Rapid AI adoption is occurring globally, with regular usage increasing by 13% to 45% of workers, yet confidence in using technology has dropped by 18%, marking the first decline in overall worker confidence in three years, resulting in a Global Talent Barometer score of 67% [1][2][6] Group 1: AI Adoption and Worker Sentiment - The "honeymoon phase" of AI adoption is over, with employers needing to invest in employee development alongside technology to enhance productivity and retain workforce [5] - While 89% of workers feel confident in their current skills, 43% fear job automation within two years, an increase of 5% from 2025, leading to a trend of "job hugging" where 64% plan to stay with their current employer for stability [2][6] Group 2: Training and Development Gaps - A significant training void exists, with 56% of the global workforce reporting no recent training and 57% lacking mentorship opportunities, raising concerns about skills readiness as AI use accelerates [6] - The decline in technology confidence is particularly pronounced among older generations, with Baby Boomers experiencing a 35% drop and Gen X a 25% drop in tech confidence [6] Group 3: Well-Being and Job Satisfaction - Burnout affects nearly two-thirds (63%) of workers, primarily due to stress (28%) and heavy workloads (24%), with job satisfaction currently at 62% [6] - The Well-Being Index remains steady at 67% but continues to be a significant pressure point for workers amid ongoing changes [6] Group 4: Financial Pressures and Regional Variations - Financial pressures drive "job hugging," with 50% of all workers supplementing their primary income, rising to 68% among Gen Z [6] - Worker sentiment varies by geography, with India leading in overall sentiment (77%) and AI adoption (77%), while Japan has the lowest overall score at 48% [6]