Ivanti Study Reveals 30% of Employees Hide AI-Boosted Productivity Amid Return-to-Office Mandates and Job Concerns
Ivanti, a leading enterprise software company, has released its 2025 Technology at Work Report, which delves into how employees use technological tools, particularly AI, to maintain autonomy and flexibility in their work. The comprehensive survey involved 6,000 office workers and 1,200 IT and cybersecurity professionals, providing insights into the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace. Key Findings and Trends Increased Adoption of AI Despite Concerns The report highlights that despite widespread apprehension about AI, its usage in the workplace continues to grow. By 2025, 42% of employees are using generative AI (GenAI) tools at work, up from 26% in 2024. This surge in AI adoption is driven by the desire for greater work efficiency and flexibility. However, 30% of these employees fear their jobs might be cut due to AI, while 27% experience AI-fueled imposter syndrome, worrying that their reliance on AI might lead others to doubt their capabilities. Employee Sentiment and Job Security Economic instability, a sluggish job market, and return-to-office (RTO) mandates have contributed to increased job dissatisfaction and a lack of motivation among employees. A notable 48% of employees report experiencing "resenteeism," a term describing employees who dislike their jobs but continue to work out of necessity. Presenteeism, where employees show up to the office just to be seen, is also prevalent, affecting 39% of the workforce. These behaviors underscore the importance of employee engagement and recognition, regardless of work location. IT and Cybersecurity Professionals: Flexibility and Pressure IT professionals, despite viewing flexible work arrangements as high-value or essential, often find themselves under pressure to conform to RTO policies. Only 25% of IT professionals feel their current jobs offer high flexibility, and 64% are feeling pressured by employers to return to the office. This situation is particularly concerning given the ongoing competition for skilled IT workers. Employers risk losing valuable talent if they fail to provide the flexibility and support that these professionals seek. Addressing the Challenges Brooke Johnson, Ivanti's Chief Legal Counsel and SVP of HR and Security, underscores the need for a balanced approach. She emphasizes the importance of building a sustainable AI governance model that prioritizes transparency and addresses AI-fueled imposter syndrome through reinvention. Employers must innovate with empathy and provide employees with the autonomy they desire to prevent disengagement and maintain productivity. Johnson notes that organizations that fail to adopt such practices may see a decline in both employee morale and performance. This could lead to a higher turnover rate and negatively impact the overall security and productivity of the company. The report suggests that companies should focus on creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that values employee contributions and acknowledges the role of AI in enhancing productivity. Evaluation by Industry Insiders and Company Profile Industry experts agree that the findings in Ivanti's report are reflective of broader trends in the tech workforce. They stress that the balance between utilizing innovative technology and ensuring employee well-being is crucial. Companies like Ivanti, which offer comprehensive IT and security solutions, are well-positioned to help organizations navigate these challenges. Ivanti, known for its cloud-based platform and scalable solutions, serves over 34,000 customers, including 85 of the Fortune 100 companies. The company's commitment to creating an environment where all perspectives are heard and respected aligns with the report's emphasis on transparency and employee engagement. Ivanti's Neurons platform, which provides consistent visibility and secure solution delivery, is a prime example of how technology can be leveraged to support both flexibility and security in the workplace. In summary, while the adoption of AI in the workplace is increasing, it is essential for employers to address the underlying concerns of their employees. By fostering a transparent, empathetic, and flexible environment, companies can harness the benefits of AI while mitigating the risks of job insecurity and disengagement. Ivanti's report serves as a valuable guide for organizations looking to reshape their work culture and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.