Despite current global economic uncertainty, geopolitical disruption and slowed hiring, competition for critical talent remains fierce. Research by the Institute for Corporate Productivity (i4cp) shows that traditional compensation-centric employee value propositions are inadequate in today’s environment.
High-performance organizations differentiate themselves by continuously examining their EVP, incorporating elements that serve not only to attract candidates but also to retain top performers. These individuals expect an evolving employment experience that aligns with their life stage and career aspirations.
i4cp’s research highlights that one of the most important aspects of any EVP is its dynamic nature—evolving in real time to meet the changing needs of both the organization and the talent it seeks to attract and retain.
In this context, AI presents both a unique opportunity and a challenge.
Years of quantitative and qualitative research reveal that employees continue to prioritize flexibility, purpose-driven work, competitive and transparent compensation, and meaningful growth opportunities. Providing the tools and technology that enable workers to perform at their best is essential, meaning that today’s candidates are likely to evaluate prospective employers based on their AI adoption and maturity.
Many organizations are moving slowly on scaling AI
A recent i4cp survey found that only 21% of respondents from larger companies (those with workforces of over 1,000 people) reported that clearly communicating the organization’s vision for AI usage is a current strength.
Another i4cp survey of 151 C-level and senior executives (report publication in December 2025) found that only 25% described their organization’s generative AI adoption status as operationalizing/scaling applications across the enterprise. Most (58%) reported that their organizations are still in the experimentation stage, using one or more gen AI-enabled platforms or models and assessing outcomes to identify best uses; 14% stated their organizations are still experimenting, researching potential models and applications for gen AI.
It is reasonable to assume that companies genuinely scaling AI may be more attractive to candidates. Key talent is looking for a coherent AI strategy and clear opportunities to develop AI skills.