One in five UK workers now turn to artificial intelligence (AI) for workplace guidance instead of their line manager, the results of a new survey show. It comes amid a growing lack of trust in leadership and a desire for quicker, more accurate support.
The shift reveals a startling lack of confidence in traditional management, particularly as most managers lack formal training. Experts warn this could have serious implications for workplace wellbeing, communication and team cohesion.
The findings come from a survey commissioned by career platform Resume.ai of 1,000 full-time UK employees in March. It shows that a majority of workers prefer AI tools to their managers for everyday guidance — with some even relying on algorithms for performance feedback.
AI Seen as Faster, Smarter, More Reliable
The study found that 67% of employees now turn to AI over their managers for direction, with almost a quarter (22.8%) doing so every day. The reasons include speed (52%), superior knowledge (46%) and distrust in managers’ advice (6%).
For many workers, AI’s 24/7 availability and data-driven approach offer a welcome alternative to unclear or delayed input from overstretched managers.
In performance reviews, a process traditionally shaped by subjective human judgement, 37% of employees now trust AI more than their manager — a figure that has surprised workplace experts.
Millennials and Gen Z Leading the Shift
Younger workers are at the forefront of this digital shift. Over 60% of Gen Z and Millennials use AI frequently or daily to support their work, compared to just 38% of Gen X and 31% of Baby Boomers.
Millennials in particular appear deeply reliant on AI, with 59% saying they could not perform to the same standard without it. This generation, now the largest in the workforce, also reported the greatest distrust in management.
It’s not just junior staff embracing automation. The survey suggests that 24% of workers know their manager uses AI for leadership tasks — and another 38% suspect they do so without saying.
These tools are increasingly used behind the scenes for scheduling, reporting, task delegation and even performance evaluation. But experts warn this “quiet AI” adoption may further erode trust if not openly discussed.
Poor Leadership Training Fuelling the Trend
A key driver of AI’s rise is poor leadership. According to the Chartered Management Institute, 82% of UK managers have never received any formal management training. The statistic is reflected in the daily experiences of many employees, who cite poor communication, vague feedback and indecisive leadership as reasons for turning elsewhere for support.
While AI can be a useful supplement, workplace wellbeing experts caution that over-reliance on automation comes with risks. The loss of human interaction, emotional intelligence and empathetic leadership can create more isolated and transactional workplaces.
To restore confidence in leadership, employers are being urged to invest in training for line managers, especially around communication, emotional intelligence and feedback. A well-trained manager can offer something no algorithm can: real human connection.