Workers in the U.S. spend nearly half their daily AI interaction time correcting errors or refining prompts, according to a survey from HR software company BambooHR. Employees average 90 minutes a day using artificial intelligence. Of that time, about half is consumed by fixing mistakes or adjusting inputs to produce useful results.
The survey polled over 1,600 full-time, salaried U.S. workers. Sixty-five percent reported feeling confident or enthusiastic about AI at work. Another 58 percent said the technology boosts motivation by saving time. However, the findings also highlight a widening gap: executives and vice presidents use AI nearly twice as much as individual contributors.
Time spent with AI outpaces human interaction
Employees now dedicate 41% of their workday to AI, compared to 59% interacting with people. This change has sparked concerns about mentorship and knowledge sharing. Over a third of respondents said their organizations depend on AI tools for internal knowledge transfers, often reducing human conversations.
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Some workers avoid asking colleagues for help, citing discomfort or a desire to solve problems independently. About 27% prefer consulting AI rather than admitting they need assistance. Earlier research from Workday showed similar patterns: 76% of employees had used AI for advice, and 52% for brainstorming. Many described AI as more approachable and accessible than human coworkers.
The issue of flawed AI outputs has become so widespread it earned its own term: workslop. A Zety survey last year found only 39% of workers always correct workslop, while 31% tolerate it and 21% ignore it as long as deadlines are met. Most reported spending up to six hours weekly fixing AI errors, aligning with BambooHR’s estimate.
HR teams struggle to keep up with AI’s pace
While AI can save time, many organizations are still learning how to use it effectively. A report from talent management firm Talogy in August noted that the technology is evolving faster than workers can evaluate its long-term benefits. In HR, 80% of professionals said they were dealing with at least one issue in their AI tools, even as 43% saved a full workday per week in recruiting.
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Managers could help ease employee concerns about AI, but chief human resource officers (CHROs) disagree on whether leaders are ready for the shift. A Gallup poll of CHROs found no consensus on whether managers can guide teams through AI-driven changes.
The survey also uncovered generational differences. Though most workers remain optimistic about AI, younger employees are more likely to fear it could hinder career growth.
For now, AI serves as both a productivity tool and a source of frustration. Companies will continue using it, but adaptation will be necessary as its limitations become clearer.
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