78 percent of workers are now using their own AI tools in the workplace, signaling a significant shift in the integration of technology at work.

Leaders are concerned about measuring the productivity gains from AI, with 59 percent unsure how to quantify the benefits, despite 79 percent acknowledging its importance for competitive advantage.

Microsoft's Jared Spataro highlighted the challenge for business leaders to demonstrate return on investment (RoI) for AI technologies, amidst a backdrop of many companies still experimenting with AI at a conceptual level.

Microsoft appears to be transitioning from recognizing business concerns to promoting a fear of missing out (FOMO) on AI advancements, possibly to accelerate RoI on its own Copilot investments.

The usage of AI in the workplace has nearly doubled in the past six months, with three-quarters of professionals globally using AI, underscoring the technology's rapid proliferation.

There is a critical need for upskilling in AI, as employers face difficulties in hiring for technological expertise, prompting Microsoft and LinkedIn to provide resources and training to support AI skill development.

The marketing sector is notably quick in adopting AI tools and skills, with leadership favoring AI-competent candidates, and job postings mentioning AI attracting 17% more applications.