As artificial intelligence becomes embedded in everyday workflows, a new dynamic is emerging inside organizations: AI is no longer seen solely as a tool, but increasingly as a collaborator. Yet this shift is far from universally accepted.

According to reporting by Forbes, based on the Digital Work Trends study by data intelligence platform Slingshot, a growing number of leaders are beginning to reframe AI’s role in the workplace. Around 41% of executives already view AI as part of their team — a conceptual shift that reflects how deeply the technology is integrating into decision-making, productivity and operations.

For employees, however, the picture is more complex.

Between collaboration and competition

While leadership narratives increasingly position AI as a “co-worker,” most professionals still relate to it in more traditional terms. The same study indicates that 52% of employees see AI primarily as a tool, while only 20% perceive it as a collaborative partner.

Even among younger generations — often assumed to be more comfortable with emerging technologies — sentiment is mixed. Members of Gen Z (28%) and Millennials (24%) are more likely to embrace the idea of AI as a teammate, yet a significant portion also expresses concern. Roughly one in five in these groups fears that AI could become a direct competitor in the workplace.

This dual perception — AI as both enabler and threat — highlights a broader transition underway: organizations are moving faster than the cultural adaptation required to fully integrate these systems.

A shift in mindset

Experts heard by Forbes suggest that the key challenge is not technological, but psychological. Dean Guida, CEO of Infragistics and founder of Slingshot, emphasizes that the value of AI lies in how it is used, not simply in its availability. In this context, early adoption and intentional experimentation become strategic advantages.

Bryan Robinson, a contributor to Forbes USA and professor emeritus at the University of North Carolina, put together four practical approaches emerging for professionals looking to integrate AI more effectively into their work:

1. Start experimenting early
   “Familiarity builds confidence. Testing AI tools in everyday tasks — from writing to research — helps professionals understand where real value lies.”
2. Use AI to amplify strengths
   “Rather than competing with automation, individuals can leverage it to enhance what they already do well — freeing up time for higher-value thinking, creativity and decision-making.”
3. Look beyond efficiency
   “The greatest impact of AI is not just speed, but insight. When used to analyze information and support decisions, it becomes a strategic asset.”
4. Make AI visible within teams
   “Silent adoption limits organizational learning. Sharing how AI is being used can unlock collective intelligence and accelerate more effective integration across teams.”

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Source: Slingshot | Forbes