Wednesday, 29 April 2026
A growing share of employees are integrating artificial intelligence into their daily work, but concerns about its broader impact are also increasing, according to a recent survey by Genesis Property.
The study, conducted at the beginning of 2026 on a sample of 1,146 respondents in Romania, found that more than 48 percent of employees consider AI a useful tool that simplifies their work. At the same time, 66 percent expressed concern about overdependence on the technology, while 56 percent believe it could contribute to the dehumanisation of work. Around 40 percent approach AI cautiously due to its potential impact on jobs, and 31 percent associate it with anxiety regarding long-term job security.
The findings also highlight clear boundaries where employees are reluctant to see AI applied. Approximately 62 percent of respondents said artificial intelligence should not be used in decisions directly affecting employees, such as performance evaluations, promotions or dismissals. More than half opposed its use in assessing emotions or motivation, while over one-third indicated that interpersonal relationships and team dynamics should remain outside the scope of automated systems. Nearly 30 percent also pointed to leadership and accountability as areas where decision-making should remain human-led.
Despite these concerns, respondents acknowledged productivity benefits. Over half said AI helps automate repetitive tasks, while others cited faster data analysis and support for creative work. However, the results suggest that employees are seeking a more balanced approach to technology use rather than further expansion without limits.
Workplace expectations are also evolving in response. Nearly 55 percent of respondents indicated a preference for office environments that combine technology with features supporting wellbeing, such as relaxation areas, natural light and access to outdoor space. Around one-third highlighted the need for dedicated areas for collaboration without digital tools, reflecting concerns about digital overload.
“We are seeing a meaningful shift in perspective: employees are not rejecting technology, but neither are they willing to accept it without limits,” said Elena Panait. “AI is welcomed where it simplifies work, yet it becomes a source of discomfort when it removes the human element entirely or is perceived as a control mechanism.”
The survey also indicates that employees are increasingly sensitive to certain workplace technologies. Activity monitoring systems were identified as the main source of discomfort by more than half of respondents, while over 40 percent expressed concerns about automated performance evaluations without human oversight.
According to the findings, preferences are shifting towards work environments that integrate technology more discreetly. Around 37 percent of respondents favour workplaces that support efficiency while retaining human decision-making, and a similar share prefer environments where technology is less visible. More than 30 percent emphasised the importance of flexible spaces that can accommodate different types of work, from focused tasks to collaboration.
The results point to a broader shift in workplace design priorities, where the focus is moving beyond digitalisation alone towards balancing efficiency with employee wellbeing.
Photo: Elena Panait, Head of Leasing, Genesis Property
