OIT study finds 25% of global workers already interact with generative AI

A study conducted by the International Labour Organization in partnership with Poland’s NASK institute, released in May 2025, analyzed nearly 30,000 professional tasks. It found that one in four workers worldwide perform duties that can be partially carried out with the help of generative artificial intelligence. The report, titled Generative AI and Jobs: A Refined Global Index of Occupational Exposure, suggests that transforming work activities is more likely than completely replacing jobs.

How is exposure to AI defined?

In this study, exposure means that some tasks within a job can be performed, either fully or partially, using generative AI tools. This does not mean that all professionals in a field will be replaced or that companies have already automated these tasks. For example, AI can produce an initial draft of a report, organize information, summarize documents, and assist with data analysis. In these cases, the worker remains responsible for validating information, interpreting results, and making decisions.

Which professions will see the most changes?

Administrative roles remain among the most vulnerable. Tasks such as data entry, typing, operational accounting, and administrative support have a high potential for automation. The study also found greater exposure in more digitalized technical and professional roles, including financial analysts, programmers, web content developers, and investment consultants.

Specialized professionals may also have parts of their work performed by AI, especially when dealing with digital documents and standardized processes. For example, a financial analyst can use AI to organize data and create a first draft of an analysis. Coordinators can use AI to structure performance reports, while managers can use it to compare scenarios and prepare for meetings. In executive roles, AI helps synthesize information and formulate strategic hypotheses, but risk assessment, priority setting, and final decision-making still rely on human judgment.

How to prepare for these changes

Exposure to artificial intelligence does not determine a career’s future on its own. The impact depends on the tasks involved, companies’ decisions about adopting the technology, and workers’ ability to integrate new tools into their routines.

A first step is to identify which tasks can be automated or accelerated and learn to use the appropriate tools for your field. It is essential to review the results generated and understand limitations such as factual errors, biases, and exposure of confidential information.

Developing skills that complement AI, such as analytical thinking, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving, is also crucial. These skills help interpret results, identify inconsistencies, and turn data into useful business decisions.

Technical training must be aligned with professional needs. Knowing how to formulate commands, evaluate responses, and apply technology in real situations allows workers to move beyond experimental use.

Implications for the future of work

The estimate that 25% of workers are exposed to generative AI does not mean that a quarter of jobs will disappear. What the study shows is that a significant portion of occupations include tasks that can be modified by technology.

For those planning their careers, the focus should be on the activities performed, not just the job title. Assessing which tasks are repetitive and how AI can change the skills needed to perform them is a more effective approach.

The adoption of technology also depends on companies, which need to consider training, result quality, data protection, and process reorganization. Professional adaptation involves both individual learning and the conditions provided by organizations.