Workday, Inc.’s new research AI Agents Are Here – But Don’t Call Them Boss, has revealed that 81% of workers are comfortable using AI agents, but only 24% say they are comfortable being managed by one.
“We’re entering a new era of work where AI can be an incredible partner, and a complement to human judgment, leadership, and empathy,” said Kathy Pham, vice president, AI, Workday. “Building trust means being intentional in how AI is used and keeping people at the centre of every decision.”
Copilot not commander
The study found that only 19% are willing to work with AI agents in the background without human knowledge.
Trust in AI agents has increased with their growing use, but only 13% of respondents in Hong Kong still believe they are overhyped. The study found that directly experiencing AI agents builds confidence.
An overhwhelming 97% believe AI agents will help them get more done and drive innovation (86%). However, some say that using them decreases critical thinking (60%), increases pressure (46%), and results in less human interaction (46%).
Daniel Cham, general manager for Workday Greater China, said: “To fully realise the potential of human-AI collaboration, businesses must prioritise transparency and responsible oversight—ensuring trust, ethical use, and data security remain at the core of every deployment.”
