Introduction:
The term “AI user” is now so broad, it’s almost meaningless. Everyone from engineers to HR reps is touching AI—but how deeply, and how effectively? The AI Proficiency Report sheds light on the five distinct profiles that now exist in the modern workplace.
1. AI Experts (1%)
The smallest, most elite group. These are often C-suite leaders with extensive access, training, and a clear mandate to use AI. They’re saving 12+ hours per week and using advanced tools like Custom GPTs and Deep Research. Their average proficiency score? A whopping 84/100.
2. AI Practitioners (9%)
Skilled, regular users who likely sit in director or leadership roles. They’re not quite power users, but they know how to get real value out of AI. They save 4–8 hours per week and are generally optimistic about AI’s future.
3. AI Experimenters (34%)
The tinkerers. They’ve tried AI, use it occasionally, and often think they’re better at it than they really are (Dunning-Kruger, anyone?). Despite having access to similar training as practitioners, their proficiency scores are far lower.
4. AI Novices (44%)
By far the largest group. These employees are anxious, under-resourced, and often in roles where AI training is scarce. Over 50% of novices fear being replaced by AI, and 86% lack access to even a basic LLM.
5. AI Skeptics (12%)
These users rarely engage with AI. It’s not always because they don’t want to—it’s often because their company doesn’t support or encourage it. Only 4% have access to a company-provided LLM.
Why This Typology Matters:
Treating your workforce as a monolith in AI adoption is a mistake. Knowing who your AI experts, skeptics, and experimenters are enables better-targeted training and support. For example, experimenters are ripe for leveling up with the right nudge, while novices need a gentler, more foundational approach.
Leadership Takeaway:
Personalize your AI enablement strategy. One-size-fits-all training won’t work across these five groups. To make AI a competitive advantage, meet your team where they are.