AI sentiment is turning sour as employee reviews reveal growing frustration across the workforce
A Glassdoor analysis shows positive AI sentiment among U.S. workers dropped from 81 percent in 2019 to 43 percent by mid-2026, while negative comments rose to 53 percent.
AI sentiment is turning sour as employee reviews reveal growing frustration across the workforce. The data highlights a significant shift in perception, with workers expressing increasing dissatisfaction with the integration of AI in the workplace. This trend is particularly evident among younger generations, where skepticism about AI's role and impact is on the rise.
The analysis from Glassdoor indicates that positive sentiment toward AI among U.S. workers has declined sharply over the past few years. In 2019, 81 percent of workers viewed AI positively, but by mid-2026, that number had dropped to 43 percent. Simultaneously, the proportion of negative comments about AI rose to 53 percent, signaling a growing divide in how employees perceive AI's influence on their work environments.
The decline in positive AI sentiment is not uniform across all demographics. For instance, only 21 percent of AI-related comments from Gen Z women are positive, making them the most skeptical group in the workforce. This demographic gap suggests that younger workers, especially women, are more critical of AI's implementation and its effects on job roles and workplace dynamics.
The growing dissatisfaction with AI has broader implications for employers and the tech industry. Companies are facing increased pressure to address concerns about AI's impact on job security, work conditions, and ethical considerations. The need for better governance and transparency in AI deployment is becoming more urgent as employees demand clearer communication and more responsible use of AI technologies.
As the sentiment around AI continues to shift, the implications for the future of work remain uncertain. The data suggests that while some managers remain optimistic about AI's potential, the majority of workers are growing increasingly wary. This evolving landscape will likely shape how organizations approach AI integration, with a greater emphasis on addressing employee concerns and ensuring that AI is implemented in ways that align with workforce expectations.