- U.S. employee engagement remained at 31% in the first half of 2026, unchanged from 2025, with 18% actively disengaged, representing 8 million fewer engaged employees since 2020.
- AI adoption alone does not improve engagement; higher engagement occurs when leaders introduce AI with clear expectations, a thoughtful implementation plan, and active manager support.
- Clarity of expectations improved to 49% but remains below the 2015 peak of 61%, while feelings of being heard and connection to purpose have declined, indicating detachment.
- In AI-adopting organizations, employees who frequently use AI and have manager support show engagement rates up to 53%, compared to 30% without such conditions.
- Manager support for AI is the strongest factor linked to engagement, with an 18-point difference in engagement rates between those with and without it.
- Productivity gains from AI are realized when frequent use, clear plans, manager support, and employee engagement are all present, leading to nearly triple the likelihood of high productivity ratings.
- Leaders should make AI expectations explicit by role, equip managers to coach AI use, integrate AI into performance conversations, and track both engagement and AI use together.